Low-VOC and Non-Toxic Flooring | Detailed Guide 2024

Are you thinking about getting new floors while keeping your indoor environment healthy and eco-friendly?

Non-toxic flooring is the answer you’re looking for!

It is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a healthier living space for you and your loved ones. Besides aesthetics and durability, the toxicity of flooring materials is increasingly vital to consider. Thus, non-toxic flooring is a smart choice for modern homeowners and businesses, from reducing indoor air pollution to promoting sustainable practices.

Planet Ark provides you with a comprehensive guide to non-toxic flooring, its benefits, and how it contributes to a sustainable lifestyle. Additionally, we offer a range of non-toxic flooring products to help you create a healthier and greener environment at home or in your office. So, let’s discover the wonders of low-VOC and non-toxic flooring together!

First, you need to know…

TOXIC FLOORING | Risk and Impact on Indoor Air Quality

Toxic flooring refers to certain types of vinyl and laminate flooring that are considered harmful due to the presence of reprocessed plastic and toxic chemicals such as cadmium, phthalates, and lead. These materials can emit toxic fumes like VOCs, negatively impacting indoor air quality through a process known as ‘off-gassing’.

Risks Associated with Toxic Flooring

1. Reprocessed Plastic: Toxic flooring sometimes has recycled plastic, which has the potential to release harmful chemicals into the air over time.
2. Cadmium: Cadmium is a toxic metal found in some flooring materials, posing health risks when inhaled or ingested.
3. Phthalates: Certain types of flooring may contain phthalates, which are chemicals known to disrupt hormone function and have adverse health effects.
4. Lead: Lead, a highly toxic metal, can be present in older flooring materials, especially in homes built before lead regulations were enforced.

What are VOCs – Volatile Organic Compounds?

VOCs are gases released into the air from a variety of products. While some VOCs are hazardous chemicals on their own, they can also combine with other gases or chemicals to form additional pollutants.

In flooring materials, VOCs are often present in products such as stains, varnishes, adhesives, and certain finishes. However, natural materials like solid wood flooring or hardwood flooring are typically considered ‘low-VOC,’ meaning they emit fewer harmful gases into the air. It’s important to be aware of VOC emissions when selecting flooring and other products to minimize potential risks and promote a healthier indoor environment.

Impact of Off-Gassing on Indoor Air Quality

The emission of fumes or gases from toxic flooring materials through off-gassing can result in various health issues and have a significant effect on indoor air quality. These emissions may trigger respiratory problems and allergies, and contribute to indoor pollution.

Individuals such as children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory conditions are especially susceptible to the adverse effects of fumes emitted by toxic flooring.

Let’s move towards healthier and eco-friendly flooring options!

Non-Toxic Flooring | Healthy Alternative

In contrast to toxic flooring, healthy flooring options are made with natural building materials and are considered ‘low VOC’.

Non-toxic flooring contains natural materials that don’t have harmful chemicals, toxins, and pollutants that cause health risks by negatively impacting indoor air quality. These materials are often made from natural, renewable, or recycled substances that do not emit VOCs or other harmful emissions. Low VOC flooring examples include natural stone and wood floors, which are free from harmful chemicals, and have minimal impact on indoor air quality.

Therefore, conducting thorough research and carefully selecting flooring manufacturers and products are crucial steps in ensuring a healthy and secure indoor environment for yourself and your loved ones.Top of Form

6 Best Non-Toxic Floorings in Australia

Creating a healthy and eco-friendly living environment starts with selecting the appropriate flooring materials. In Australia, there are six outstanding non-toxic flooring choices known for their environmental sustainability and safety standards.

Let’s explore each of these options in detail:

1. Non-Toxic Hardwood Flooring

When considering flooring options, hardwood flooring stands as a safe and eco-friendly choice. Unlike certain materials that can release harmful chemicals, non-toxic hardwood flooring is entirely natural and free of toxins, ensuring a 100% safe environment for your home or office.

Here’s how it’s the best option for you:

• Natural and Chemical-Free: Solid hardwood flooring is completely natural and free from any toxins or harmful chemicals. Each plank is crushed from a single piece of timber, ensuring a healthy and eco-friendly flooring choice.
• Zero-VOC and No Off-Gassing: Solid wood flooring has zero VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) levels and does not exhibit off-gassing qualities, making your indoor air clean and free from harmful emissions.
• Eco-Friendly Certification: For an even more eco-friendly option, consider choosing 100% FSC-certified wood floors. These floors are sourced from legal and sustainable timber, contributing to environmental conservation efforts.
• Durability and Longevity: Through proper maintenance and care, solid hardwood flooring can endure a lifetime. Its durability adds value to your space while reducing the need for frequent replacements, making it a sustainable choice.

While solid hardwood floors offer many benefits, they are not suitable for moist areas such as bathrooms and basements due to their 100% wood composition.

There are two main categories of hardwood flooring:

Both types of hardwood flooring maintain zero to low VOC levels due to their natural wood composition, making them ideal choices for eco-conscious individuals seeking non-toxic flooring solutions.

2. Non-Toxic Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring, mainly luxury vinyl plank and tile, has become a preferred choice for many homeowners and businesses due to its resilience and cost-effectiveness. It offers many designs and styles, resembling natural materials like hardwood or stone, being easier to maintain.

Historically, some types of vinyl floors have consisted of phthalates, which can be harmful due to off-gassing. Off-gassing occurs when chemicals leach into the flooring material during manufacturing and then release into the air over time. This process can lead to indoor air pollution and health concerns, especially for children.

However, it’s crucial to choose vinyl flooring with proven low VOC levels to minimize off-gassing risks. Quality manufacturers have significantly reduced VOC levels in their vinyl plank and luxury vinyl tile flooring, making them low in VOCs and less prone to off-gassing.

Furthermore, vinyl flooring comes in a wide range of hybrid configurations, allowing you to select options based on their appearance and suitability for your home or commercial space.

3. Non-Toxic Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is designed to imitate the appearance of hardwood using synthetic wood. However, concerns arise due to the toxins and chemicals found in the bonding adhesives used in traditional laminate flooring.

Is Non-Toxic Laminate Flooring Possible?

Yes, non-toxic laminate flooring does exist. It is artificially constructed from materials like melamine, resin, and fiberboard, all of which are manufactured with chemicals. Fortunately, advancements in chemical technology have led to the development of non-toxic forms of laminate flooring.

Identifying non-toxic laminate flooring can be challenging because toxins are often not detectable by smell or appearance. Thus, it highlights the importance of conducting in-depth research and seeking expert advice when choosing laminate flooring options. Understanding where the flooring came from and what it’s made of can help determine its level of toxicity and whether it meets your non-toxic standards.

4. Non-Toxic Cork Flooring

Non-toxic cork flooring is a fantastic option for eco-conscious homeowners. It’s made from the bark of cork oak trees, which naturally regenerate, making it a sustainable choice. What’s great about cork is that it doesn’t release harmful VOCs or other toxic substances into the air, contributing to a healthy indoor atmosphere.

Apart from being environmentally friendly, non-toxic cork flooring offers several practical benefits:

• Comfortable: Soft underfoot, provides a comfortable walking experience.
• Noise and Temperature Insulation: Offers insulation against noise and temperature changes, enhancing indoor comfort.
• Resistant to Mold, Mildew, and Pests: Naturally repels mold, mildew, and pests, ideal for moisture-prone areas.
• Durable: Withstands heavy foot traffic, ensuring longevity without showing wear and tear.
• Easy Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep with regular sweeping, vacuuming, and occasional mopping.
• Long-Lasting: Maintains its quality and appearance over time, making it a reliable long-term flooring option.

Furthermore, cork floors come in a variety of colours and styles to suit different interior design preferences. Whether you prefer a traditional look or a modern vibe, there’s a cork flooring option to complement your decor.

5. Non-Toxic Carpets

Non-toxic carpets offer a breath of fresh air for those who prioritize health and environmental safety in their living spaces. These carpets are a top choice for individuals sensitive to chemical products commonly found in building materials.

Here’s why carpets are gaining popularity and becoming a preferred flooring option:

• Hypoallergenic and Natural Fiber Options

Non-toxic carpets come in hypoallergenic varieties, making them ideal for individuals with allergies or sensitivities. You can also find carpets that rely more on natural fibres than synthetic ones, reducing the presence of harmful chemicals and promoting a healthier indoor environment.

• The Shift Towards Eco-Friendly Flooring

While carpets have been a traditional favourite, growing awareness of health risks associated with synthetic carpets has led many to seek more natural and eco-friendly flooring options, often referred to as green flooring choices. Non-toxic carpets align with this trend, offering a sustainable and safer alternative to conventional carpeting.

However, synthetic/artificial carpets can contain various harmful chemicals, from the dyes used for colouring to the adhesives/glues used for installation; binding the fibres. Thus, they release toxic fumes for extended periods.

But, no worries! There are steps to minimize exposure and ensure a safer living environment. Placing the carpet outdoors or in a well-ventilated area for at least a week before installation allows for the dispersion of toxic fumes, reducing the impact on indoor air quality.

With a range of options in the market, you can select glues/adhesives that meet your low toxicity requirements, ensuring secure carpet installation.

6. Non-Toxic Bamboo Flooring

Non-toxic bamboo flooring shares similarities with laminate flooring, requiring careful consideration of each product’s composition for safety.

Like laminate, bamboo flooring utilizes adhesives to bind its fibres into a suitable flooring material. The key factor in determining its non-toxicity lies in the resins or adhesives used during manufacturing.

Fortunately, bamboo flooring stands out as a modern flooring option dedicated to environmental friendliness. This dedication results in fewer chemicals used in production and a reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional flooring materials. Hence, it’s important to conduct detailed research on individual products, when considering the safety of bamboo flooring.

Ready to upgrade your floors to a healthier option?

Step onto Eco-Friendly Non-Toxic Flooring with Planet Ark!

Non-toxic flooring creates a healthy and fresh indoor environment, and certainly, it needs proper care and maintenance to stay longer.

At Planet Ark Store we use the latest technology to manufacture premium quality non-toxic floor cleaning products that provide safe cleaning. Additionally, our natural, eco-friendly and 100% VOC-free floor finishing products significantly improve your indoor air quality and reduce health risks for yourself and your family.

So, don’t wait any longer – Contact us at 041 258 4892

Find our Eco-friendly Floor Finishing Products and Floor Cleaning Products Now!