Most homeowners think more about how their flooring will look than how it will affect their home’s air quality. However, they should pay attention to this as well. If you or someone in your household deals with allergies, asthma or general sensitivity to chemicals, flooring matters.
Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice style for being health-conscious. At Savi Flooring & Tile, we carry flooring options that are beautiful and keep your indoor environment clean. Let’s talk about how flooring can affect your indoor air quality and what you can do about it.
What Flooring Has to Do With the Air You Breathe
Indoor air quality and your flooring go hand in hand. It comes down to what materials release into the air and what they hold onto over time.
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are the biggest concern. These chemicals are found in certain adhesives, finishes and synthetic materials that off-gas into your home. This can sometimes happen months after installation day, leading to headaches, eye irritation and respiratory discomfort.
Your flooring can also trap dust, pet dander and pollen. All of these can settle into flooring surfaces and end up back in the air because of constant foot traffic. Remember that some materials hold onto particles longer than others.
How Common Flooring Materials Stack Up
Every flooring material affects your indoor air quality differently. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types:
- Hardwood: Naturally hypoallergenic and easy to clean, you mainly have to watch out for finishes and adhesives here. Choose prefinished hardwood or low-VOC products.
- Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Water-resistant and simple to maintain, this is a smart pick for Florida homes. Quality matters here. Look for FloorScore or GreenGuard certification to confirm the product has been tested for chemical emissions.
- Tile: Porcelain and ceramic tile are non-emitting, resist mold growth and are easy to clean. Just make sure grout lines are properly sealed as they can collect dust and dirt over time.
- Carpet: Formerly known for trapping allergens, modern low-VOC carpets are a huge improvement. Carpet is a good fit for the bedroom or low-traffic areas as long as you vacuum using a HEPA-filter machine.
Want to explore your flooring options in person? Visit our Santa Rosa Beach showroom to dive into our products and find the perfect fit for you and your family.
What to Look for When You’re Shopping
When you’re shopping for flooring, you have to be cautious. It’s the best way to avoid choosing flooring that negatively affects your indoor air quality. Here are some tips:
- Look for Certifications: GreenGuard, FloorScore and CARB Phase 2 compliance are markers for low chemical emissions.
- Ask About Installation Products: Even a low-VOC floor can be compromised by high-VOC adhesives. Be sure your installers are using materials with the same standards as the flooring itself.
- Match the Material to the Room: Bathrooms, laundry rooms and coastal entryways need moisture-resistant flooring. There’s more flexibility in bedrooms and living areas.
By taking your time to shop carefully, you can improve your family’s health and benefit from better indoor air quality.
Make a Choice That Helps Your Family Breathe Easier
Flooring is a long-term investment. Unfortunately, air quality doesn’t get enough attention when it’s time to upgrade flooring. At Savi Flooring & Tile, we know how much it matters. Whether you’re replacing flooring in your home or vacation rental, we help you choose material that looks great and supports a healthy home.
Ready to find flooring that works for your home and your health? Contact us or visit our Santa Rosa Beach showroom today!
