Indoor air quality affects the life and activity of the building occupants. A poor indoor air quality is manifested by various symptoms such as itchy eyes, trouble breathing, runny nose, feeling tired, cough and a constant headache.
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In fact, these symptoms are related to a sick building, i.e. emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC). These compounds are found in many building material components and can cause breathing difficulties both in people with asthma or allergies as well as healthy individuals.
Environmental Protection Agency considers these volatile compounds are harmful for human health. In addition, studies have shown that the concentration of these adverse chemicals is 10 times higher inside than outside. Let’s not forget that people spend inside between 70 – 90% of the time.
It is true that building materials and construction technologies seem to be countless but not all of them are within the limits and today requirements for a Sustainable Building.
However, many homeowners are struggling to reduce the environmental impact that it may have their new building projects or their home renovations.
One way to reduce this impact is choosing appropriate building materials and construction technologies.
Let’s focus in this article on the use of ceramic tile, which is an environmentally friendly product and one of the best alternative for a healthy building.
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Ceramic Tile the Right Alternative Flooring
Those who have installed a new carpet in their home may have felt the harmful effects of these volatile compounds such as persistent cough, headache, itchy eyes, etc.
These harmful effects are felt and when you prefer to install vinyl or linoleum flooring. Adhesives and materials used to manufacture carpet or vinyl emit large amounts of these chemical compounds (VOC).
Ceramic tile and stone are alternatives tested over time and are the healthiest options for a floor. At least so says the Healthy Building Network, which recommends these materials as an alternative to carpet or vinyl flooring.
Why these floor options are “green” options?
There are at least two reasons for that.
1. The adhesives used for tile installation, have in their composition only basic elements. These basic elements are natural components found in the Earth.
2. Generally, ceramic tile are mainly made of shale and clay that are pressed and fired at extremely high temperatures.
The Healthful Benefits of Ceramic Tile
1. A Clean Surface:
Ceramic tile is one of the most cleaner flooring surface. No matter where is installed, ceramic tile presents a very dense surface that prevents bacteria, mold or other micro organisms to penetrate it.
2. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) Free:
As I mentioned above ceramic tile does not emit VOC.
3. Allergy Friendly:
Carpet is a favorable place for the accumulation of various allergens such as pet hair and dander, dust, pollen, etc. Unlike carpet, ceramic tile does not making it one of the most healthy flooring alternative.
4. Eco-Friendly Flooring:
The main components of a ceramic tile are natural resources such as clay and water.
5. Long Lasting Flooring Type:
Ceramic tile is an extremely durable material with a long life span.
6. A Very Versatile Flooring Type:
Ceramic tile offers an unlimited collection of models, sizes and colors. You can give free rein to your imagination creating any pattern you want.