Description

Flooring is one of the most difficult materials to select for affordable housing, since it can have one of the largest roles in determining indoor air quality . A variety of affordable flooring choices are attractive and durable. However, it’s also important to consider choices that are low-maintenance and minimize asthma triggers and other respiratory health concerns.

Urban Edge Guidelines

• Consider durability, maintenance requirements, and ease of cleaning when selecting flooring
• Avoid flooring products that contain PVC (polyvinyl chloride or vinyl). PVC generates toxic pollutants in the environment as well as contributing to serious health issues.
• Select products that emit low-Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) or no VOCs. Certain types of flooring including the glues and sealers can release chemical odors and have negative impacts on human respiratory health. It can take several weeks or months for this “off-gassing” to wear off.
• Avoid carpeting but if carpeting is required, be sure that it is certified with the Carpet and Rug Institute’s (CRI) Indoor Air Quality Carpet Testing Green Label

Spotlight On Urban Edge

In a survey of five properties at Urban Edge, the following flooring materials were used: linoleum, vinyl composition tile, vinyl sheet, polymer resins (Stratica), and carpet. Click here for details.

Options and Criteria Review

Types of Flooring  

• Carpet, Nylon
• Ceramic Tile
• Hardwood
• Laminate
• Linoleum
• Polished Concrete
• Polymer Resins
• Rubber
• VCT

Click here to learn more about several commonly used flooring options as well as other environmentally-friendly alternatives.

Resources

General

•  BuildingGreen – Provides good articles about different flooring products 
• New England Asthma Regional Council –Good links for strategies in maintaining healthy housing 
•  “Navigating the Flooring Thicket: Find the Greenest Way to Meet Your Needs.” Green Home Guide, November 2005. 
•  Fastfloors.com—Provides links to articles about different flooring types

Users, Maintenance Staff

• Floor Maintenance & Cleaning Tips

References