A Word about VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be found in many household materials and products. Persons susceptible to the "outgassing" of the compounds from such products may exhibit a number of symptoms, including nausea, headaches and respiratory ailments.

Due mainly to the prevalent use of pressed wood, basement finishing, especially, may release VOCs into the home. The adhesives used in these products are likely to contain urea-formaldehyde (UF) resins, a VOC. Pressed wood products made for indoor use include: particleboard (used as subflooring and shelving and in cabinetry and furniture); hardwood plywood paneling (used for decorative wall covering and in cabinets and furniture); and medium density fiberboard (used for drawer fronts, cabinets, and furniture tops). Medium density fiberboard contains a higher resin-to-wood ratio than any other UF pressed wood product and is generally recognized as being the highest formaldehyde-emitting pressed wood product.

The rate at which products such as pressed wood or textiles release formaldehyde can change. When the products are new, high indoor temperatures or humidity can cause increased release of formaldehyde from these products. Formaldehyde emissions will generally decrease as products age.

Other products also containing VOCs often found while finishing basements include paints, varnishes, and wax, as well as many cleaning, disinfecting, degreasing, and hobby products.

One approach to lowering the concentrations of indoor air pollutants in the home is to increase the amount of outdoor air coming indoors. Most home heating and cooling systems, including forced air-heating systems, do not mechanically bring fresh air into the house. Since basements are not typically well-ventilated, this can become a problem, especially during short-term activities that can generate high levels of pollutants—for example, installing flooring, paneling and cabinetry; painting, using sealants, and gluing. It is necessary to provide as much ventilation in the basement area as possible during these activities.

In addition, since VOCs have become such a recognized problem, some manufacturers have been concentrating on making their products with low VOC emissions. A great source of information regarding these products may be found from the EPAs Indoor Air Quality Clearing house toll-free number, (800) 438-4318; fax, 703-356-5386 or e-mail: iaqinfo@aol.com

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