Flooring Dangers: Is Your Floor Making You Sick?

The prevalence of indoor air quality issues warrants a thorough investigation into building materials. Governmental regulatory bodies, such as OSHA, actively monitor the presence of hazardous substances in flooring. Medical professionals increasingly recognize correlations between prolonged exposure to certain flooring types and adverse health outcomes. This article critically examines asbestos ellulose /vinyl fooring side effects, offering insights into potential risks and mitigation strategies.

Image taken from the YouTube channel This Old House , from the video titled Understanding Asbestos Safety | Ask This Old House .

Flooring Dangers: Is Your Floor Making You Sick? – Focus on Asbestos, Cellulose, and Vinyl Flooring Side Effects

This article aims to explore potential health risks associated with various flooring types, particularly focusing on asbestos, cellulose, and vinyl flooring. We will delve into the composition of these materials, their potential hazards, and ways to mitigate risks.

Understanding Flooring Material Composition

Before examining the side effects, it’s crucial to understand what these floorings are made of. This impacts the types of health hazards that might arise.

Asbestos Flooring

• Composition: Asbestos flooring commonly contains asbestos fibers mixed with binding agents like vinyl or asphalt. The asbestos was used for its fire-resistant and durable properties.
• Why it’s dangerous: Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can become lodged in the lungs, leading to serious respiratory diseases.

Cellulose Flooring (Linoleum)

• Composition: Traditional linoleum is made from natural materials like linseed oil, rosin, wood flour, cork dust, and pigments, pressed onto a canvas backing. Modern “cellulose” floorings can encompass a broader range, some including synthetic additives.
• Potential Concerns: While generally considered more eco-friendly, some modern cellulose floorings can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that off-gas into the air. Also, older cellulose floorings may have been adhered to the subfloor using asbestos-containing mastic.

Vinyl Flooring

• Composition: Vinyl flooring is typically made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and various plasticizers, stabilizers, and pigments. Several types exist including sheet vinyl, tile, and luxury vinyl planks (LVP).
• Why it’s a concern:
  • VOCs: Vinyl flooring can release VOCs, particularly during installation and in the initial months after installation.
  • Phthalates: Some vinyl flooring contains phthalates, which are used to make the vinyl flexible. Certain phthalates are under scrutiny for potential health effects.
  • Manufacturing Processes: The production of PVC can release harmful pollutants.

Health Effects Associated with Flooring

The effects of exposure depend on the flooring type, duration of exposure, concentration of harmful substances, and individual susceptibility.

Asbestos Exposure: Side Effects and Prevention

• Illnesses:
  1. Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.
  2. Lung Cancer: Increased risk, especially in smokers.
  3. Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by scarring from inhaled asbestos fibers.
• Risk Factors: The greatest risk is associated with disturbing asbestos-containing materials (ACM) during renovation or demolition, causing fibers to become airborne.
• Prevention:
  • Testing: If you suspect your flooring contains asbestos, have it professionally tested before any work begins.
  • Professional Removal: Asbestos removal should always be performed by licensed professionals who follow strict safety protocols.
  • Encapsulation: If removal isn’t possible, consider encapsulation, which involves sealing the asbestos-containing material to prevent fiber release.

Cellulose Flooring: Side Effects and Mitigation

• VOCs: Some cellulose flooring can emit VOCs, potentially causing headaches, nausea, eye irritation, and respiratory problems. The severity depends on the concentration and duration of exposure.
• Mold and Mildew: Because of the natural composition, excessive moisture exposure can promote mold or mildew growth.
• Mitigation:
  • Choose Low-VOC Products: Look for cellulose flooring certified by reputable organizations (e.g., GREENGUARD Gold) to ensure low VOC emissions.
  • Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation during and after installation.
  • Moisture Control: Address any leaks or moisture issues promptly.
  • Consider Adhesives: Understand what adhesives were used to install the flooring, as these can be another source of VOCs.

Vinyl Flooring: Side Effects and Minimization

• VOCs: VOCs emitted from vinyl flooring can cause similar symptoms to those associated with cellulose flooring, like headaches and respiratory irritation.
• Phthalates: Certain phthalates have been linked to endocrine disruption, developmental issues, and reproductive problems in animal studies. While the impact on humans is still under investigation, minimizing exposure is prudent.
• Minimization Strategies:
  • Choose Low-VOC Vinyl: Opt for vinyl flooring labeled as low-VOC or certified by organizations like FloorScore.
  • Phthalate-Free Options: Look for vinyl flooring specifically labeled as phthalate-free.
  • Ventilation: Ventilate the area well during and after installation to allow VOCs to dissipate.
  • Acclimation: Allow the flooring to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for a period before installation. This can help reduce VOC emissions after installation.
  • Consider Alternatives: Explore alternative flooring options like hardwood, tile, or cork if you are concerned about potential health risks.

Identification of Hazardous Flooring

Knowing how to identify potentially dangerous flooring is vital for safeguarding your health.

Visual Inspection

• Asbestos Tile: Older 9" x 9" tiles are highly suspect for containing asbestos. 12" x 12" tiles are less likely, but still possible. Be wary of mastic (adhesive) used with any older tile.
• Vinyl Flooring Condition: Look for signs of wear, damage, or crumbling, which can increase the release of particles or VOCs.
• Cellulose Flooring Appearance: Check for discoloration, staining, or mold growth, especially in areas prone to moisture.

Testing and Professional Assessment

• Asbestos Testing: The only way to confirm the presence of asbestos is through laboratory testing. Certified asbestos inspectors can collect samples and send them to a lab for analysis.
• Air Quality Testing: If you suspect VOC emissions, consider air quality testing to identify and measure the levels of pollutants in your home. This can provide data to help you make informed decisions about remediation.

Safe Removal and Disposal

Improper removal and disposal of hazardous flooring can release harmful substances into the environment and pose health risks.

Asbestos Flooring Removal

• Professional Removal: Always hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor for removal.
• Containment: The contractor will use containment measures (e.g., plastic sheeting, negative air pressure) to prevent fiber release.
• Disposal: Asbestos-containing materials must be disposed of at designated landfills according to local regulations.

Vinyl and Cellulose Flooring Removal

• Ventilation: Ventilate the area during removal to minimize exposure to dust and VOCs.
• Protective Gear: Wear appropriate protective gear, including a respirator, gloves, and eye protection.
• Proper Disposal: Check local regulations for proper disposal of vinyl and cellulose flooring. Some municipalities may have specific guidelines for handling materials that contain PVC or VOCs.

So, keep a close eye on the flooring in your home or office. Knowing more about asbestos ellulose /vinyl fooring side effects can really help protect your health. Stay informed and stay safe!