Is Vinyl Flooring Harmful to Health?

Is Vinyl Flooring Harmful to Health? Vinyl is a very popular flooring option in recent years. It has gained popularity in Australia, Singapore and in the USA, and other countries for its versatility, and the looks of wood flooring. Vinyl is waterproof and stain-resistant, thus it makes the ideal flooring option.

However, a recent study in 2005 has revealed that the chemicals in vinyl are toxic for health. The process requires Phthalates which is a type of PVC softener, and this item is harmful to health.

The process of vinyl making requires this PVC softener, and it’s different than other PVC materials. For instance, some chemicals are mixed in the flooring products to give hardness, flexibility, and color to them.

Just because of the toxic element, vinyl is associated with different health problems. It can create respiratory issues, cancer, skin inflammation, and neurological problems. Let’s explore more about the toxicity of vinyl, and know about the alternative options.

Phthalates or PVC softener

In the 2005 study, it was evident that the chemicals used in making vinyl are toxic, and it’s mixed in a great amount. Studies on animals have shown that exposure to harmful PVC material can affect the kidney, liver, and lungs. This can also affect the reproductive organs in animals. After this report, it has come to the notice of the production companies and they are requested to use less PVC.

Toxin contaminated floor

The plastic material found in vinyl is not just for planks, this can leach and evaporate in the air of your home and get mixed with dust. This is the reason they have more risks to kids, pets, and pregnant women too.

Normally contamination occurs because of inhalation. If your kid is crawling on the floor they will likely pick up something on the floor and put it in the mouth. This can also cause contamination.

PVC and Asthma Risk

In some studies, the researchers found out that vinyl floor is the main cause of phthalate exposure, and it can be a health risk for asthma patients. A German research center has reported that the toxicity of phthalate can increase inflammation and asthma.

According to some other researches, newly born kids can suffer from asthma attacks due to the outbreak of this toxin. This poses a higher risk for allergy-induced breathing issues, and breastfeeding women are at risk too.

How long does Vinyl produce the gas?

This is called the off-gas which is emanated from a chemical. Vinyl flooring produces this off-gas that is harmful to health.

If you want to know about the safety of the flooring project then you can opt for an air quality test which includes the sampling of the indoor air. Off-gassing starts after two to four weeks of vinyl installation. However, it also gets affected by ventilation, the number of chemicals released and the place the material has been installed.

EPA studies found out that the gas is five-time dangerous than other PVC materials. Vinyl is made with volatile organic compounds or VOC which can fill your home with toxic gas.

What about luxury vinyl planks?

In recent days, there are increased safety measures in flooring technology. Most vinyl floor suppliers offer the option with low VOC and most of them are free of phthalate.

How to protect your home from the toxic vinyl floor?

As you already know that modern vinyl flooring has no phthalate, and it has minimum risk. However, it can still be dangerous to health and cause breathing issues. You can follow the below steps to protect your home from toxic gas.

• After the installation of the vinyl floor, you must open the windows and doors to get rid of the VOC.
• Purchase the material from a reputed seller.
• You can use an air purifier in your home when you have a PVC floor.
• You can also search for alternatives like ceramic tiles.

The level of toxin in Vinyl Vary

It’s important to know that the level of toxin varies from one type of vinyl and another. In the modern days, the PVC material is not made of phthalate and has a small amount of VOC. In some recent researches, it is found that modern PVC there are toxic elements but they are not harmful to health.

Is there a non-toxic vinyl option?

Linoleum and vinyl are the most popular options for flooring. Both are cost-friendly, versatile, and durable. Linoleum will give service for 40 years and vinyl will last for 20 years. However, both material is made with VOC and other plastic materials. So there is no non-toxic vinyl flooring available. The best non-toxic option will be hardwood, polished concrete, and tiles.

Healthier floor alternatives

When you are still concerned about a healthier version of flooring, then there are various flooring options available in the market. Let’s check the list below.

• Carpet: If you have PVC flooring, you can still spread the same over it to get rid of VOC contamination. However, you have to vacuum the carpet regularly otherwise it will store dust and allergens.

• Linoleum: This is a non-toxic flooring type and safer than vinyl. This is a mix of sustainable and natural materials. Also, it has no harmful effect on humans or animals. So, you can install this without hesitation.

• Ceramic Tile: Similar to linoleum ceramic tiles are a toxin-free option. It creates no health issues and is not harmful to the environment either. Also, you can clean the surface easily. However, before installing it you can ask the service person about the toxicity of the flooring materials.

• Hardwood floor: If you are looking for a complete non-toxic option for your house, solid hardwood flooring is the best choice. It will not store dust, and cleaning is easier than the tiles and carpets. Also, this has no VOC or any other toxic elements in it. Your kids can play on the floor and it will always be safe.

Is Vinyl Flooring Harmful to Health? – Conclusion

The use of vinyl floor in recent days is safe, but it still has some toxic left in it. To keep your home free from unhealthy elements, you can choose other flooring options like ceramic tiles, hardwood floors, and so on. Also, if you are still choosing the vinyl option but it is from a trusted seller always.