Low VOC carpet – Three-Step Guide to Installing Non-Toxic, Eco-Friendly Rugs
Some people love the smell of “new.” When it comes to carpets, that new smell could be that of volatile organic compounds (VOC’s), which are released as gases and can be harmful to your health if you breathe it in. A derivative of the latex binder used to secure the “tufted” fibers to the backing, 4-phenylcyclohexene (4-PCH), is responsible for the new carpet odor people usually smell. Today we are going to shed light on how you can purchase low VOC carpet.
Buy Wool Carpet
Olefin, nylon and other artificial rugs off-gas poisonous chemicals, don’t last very long and are not eco-friendly, unlike wool low VOC carpet – the healthy non-toxic option. Only a sense of style and value will lead you to choose wool carpet. Natural wool grows old with style, constantly renewing itself and developing a rich gloss as time passes. It is an environmentally friendly product that delivers high design and high performance – year after year.
Use Low VOC Carpet Adhesives
The tackless strip method is an eco-friendly technique for installing residential carpet that does not involve adhesives. However, if your carpet calls for an adhesive, you can use one that is low in volatile organic compounds, such as Roberts Consolidated Industries Fast Grab Premium Carpet Adhesive, or Taylor Adhesives Pressure Sensitive Adhesive 2027.
Skip the Stain Repellents and Treatments
Carpets that can resist stains and insect assaults are typically treated with harsh compounds that eventually disperse. If possible, leave out all chemical treatments and go for a greener alternative. Even the backing of the carpet you choose should be 100 percent natural, and it should use non-toxic, eco-friendly adhesives. Make sure your padding is recycled or made of renewable resources.
It’s important for homeowners and designers to create demand for low VOC carpet alternatives. It’s the only way to encourage research and development of new products, so there will be more options in the future.