This post first ran in 2017.
What Are VOCs?
VOCs – volatile organic compounds – are carbon-containing chemical compounds that vaporize easily at ordinary temperatures and are released into the air.
VOCs are all around us. They can occur naturally – they give certain evergreens that “piney” smell – or in man-made products like paint. They are common in many products used in building and renovation, and while you can’t avoid them completely, it’s a good idea to try to reduce the levels you’re exposed to both during a project and afterwards.
What’s the Harm of VOCs?
VOCs can pose a risk both to human health and to our environment.
It’s important to note that not all VOCs are harmful, and that most aren’t harmful in small amounts or over short exposures. But they contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, which is an air pollutant that can trigger or exacerbate health problems like asthma.
While there are many unknowns about the health effects of VOCs, short-term exposures to high levels of VOCs have been linked with symptoms like eye or throat irritation, while high long-term exposures – which occur most often in industrial settings – are associated with more serious problems, like cancer, liver and kidney problems, and nervous system damage.
Because of both the known and unknown risks, it makes sense to limit our exposure to them to try to reduce any cumulative health or environmental effects.
(Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has a good overview of the current science on VOCs and health.)
Chose Low-VOC Materials for Building and Renovation
Sniff around any building or renovation site and your nose will be assailed with a wide variety of smells. Much of the odor comes from newly applied or opened products emitting VOCs, a process known as off-gassing.
Some of the most common VOC-containing materials used in building projects include paint, sealants, adhesives, composite flooring materials and carpeting. Fortunately, there are low- and even no-VOC alternatives to many products.
Paint
Look for products labeled “low-VOC,” which contain less than 150 grams of VOCs per liter, and “zero-VOC,” which contain less than 5 grams/liter. Fortunately, many major brands offer reduced-VOC products, so you’ll have plenty of options.
Sealants & Adhesives
Again, you can find several low- or zero-VOC products from major retailers.
Flooring
Formaldehyde (a common VOC) is present in many flooring materials, including natural ones. Bamboo and hardwood are generally low in VOCs, while some composite products also meet low-VOC standards. To reduce your VOC exposure, look for products that contain no added urea-formaldehyde in their binders, sealants and finishes.
Carpeting
Carpeting, particularly wall-to-wall, is a significant source of persistent indoor VOCs. Binders, stain-resistant treatments, fire-retardants and insecticides commonly used in carpeting can add VOCs to the air in your home. Padding can also contain VOCs. If you want to install carpeting, look for low-VOC products that have met the Carpet and Rug Institute’s (CRI’s) standards for low emissions.
Healthy Building & Renovation Practices
You can’t completely avoid VOCs, even when using low- or no-VOC products, but there are things you can do to reduce your exposure during and after a project:
- When using VOC-emitting products, make sure you have plenty of ventilation. Run exhaust fans when available.
- Air out the room fully after any project (this may take a few hours to a few days), after painting, installing new carpeting or flooring, or using sealants, solvents or cleaning products.
- Consider doing renovations when you can leave doors and windows open to reduce the indoor concentration of VOCs from products or processes.
- Open items like carpeting or flooring outside or in the garage and allow them to air out for a few days before bringing inside.
- Tightly seal VOC-containing products like paints, adhesives and sealants when finished. Dispose of them properly (check with your county about hazardous waste disposal.)
Consult Your Architect or Contractor
Ask your architect or contractor to use low- or no-VOC products wherever possible.
Working with building and renovation professionals who have experience and expertise in green building can help you ensure your indoor environment is a clean and healthy as possible.