Allergens: Other Types of Hardwood Floors

Hardwood
Modern hardwood flooring is often available as a laminated material - a thin hardwood layer is glued to a plywood or other artificial wooden base. It is nearly always prestained and prefinished. In general, water-based adhesives, stains, and other finishes give off less odour and "out-gas" less than solvent-based finishes. Laminated floors are cheaper than solid-wood floors, but they cannot be sanded down later or refinished as real wood can. Solid-wood flooring comprises planks or parquet (patterned blocks).

Linoleum or vinyl
Due to its low cost, ease of installation, and the wide range of patterns and colours available, vinyl and linoleum flooring is very popular. Vinyl flooring is made from vinyl plastic, primarily polyvinyl chloride (PVC). When new, it out-gases high levels of chemicals, particularly plasticizers. Although linoleum is made from natural ingredients, it is based on linseed oil, which, when new, gives off a powerful odour that may cause respiratory irritation. If you are fitting either of these materials, open windows and thoroughly air the room until the smell has completely disappeared. This should not take more than a few days.

Ceramic tiling
There are various types of ceramic tiles to choose from, with mosaic, quarry, glazed, and stale tiles being popular. These are available in sizes, colours, and surface textures to suit most styles and situations. Glazed or vitreous tiles have an impervious surface and do not need to be sealed. Porous, unsealed tiles may harbour bacteria and other microorganisms and easily become stained. To make cleaning easier porous tiles should always be sealed when used in kitchens and bathrooms.

The grouting between tiles can harbour mould if it becomes cracked or is constantly damp. Most common allergenic moulds prefer an acidic environment, so it is best to choose a grouting that is strongly alkaline in its chemical composition.



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