Most homes are insulated and sealed from the outside to improve their energy efficiency. Unfortunately, this means that contaminants and pollutants inside homes can linger. The good news is homeowners can take steps to refresh and maintain indoor air. In addition, they can take steps to minimize indoor air quality problems caused by their remodeling projects. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Tyler, a home renovation expert, explains more.

What Are VOCs?

Organic chemicals are widely used as ingredients in building materials. Known as volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, they can be released into the environment during renovation and negatively affect your home’s indoor air quality. VOCs can cause respiratory irritation, headaches and even damage to the central nervous system. The US Environmental Protection Agency offers several suggestions to help homeowners reduce the effects of VOCs.

Tips on Reducing VOCs During a Remodeling Project

• Consider using solid wood products with low-emitting finishes instead of pressed wood products for your project.
• If you do end up using pressed wood products, seal as many surfaces as possible to minimize emissions. Use low-emitting sealants as well, and follow the engineered wood manufacturer’s guidelines for sealing.
• Use “exterior-grade” pressed wood products because they contain phenol-formaldehyde resins instead of urea-formaldehyde resins. They are lower-emitting than other alternatives.
• During a remodeling project, work with your contractor to reduce or eliminate the use of products containing VOCs inside your home.
• Whenever possible, use low-emitting products for your project. There are low-emitting sealants, finishes and paints available.

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Tyler is the leading home remodeler in our local area. We are dedicated to superior craftsmanship and ethical excellence, so you can be secure in the knowledge that we will complete your project in the best and most efficient way possible. Call us at (903) 253-0165 to learn more about our services and products, or to request a design consultation. Let’s start a conversation!