Toxic Carpeting?

Toxins from your carpeting may be in your indoor air without your knowledge of them. A large portion of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) come from adhesives and padding that are part of the installation.

4-Phenylcyclohexene can be found in carpets but is not as dangerous as the following compounds found in adhesives and padding:

• Styrene
• 1,2-Dichloroethane
• Ethyl benzene
• Toluene
• 1,1,1-Trichloroethane
• Xylenes

While carpets are comfortable, they are not always the healthiest choice for your home's air quality. They can harbor other toxins such as dust (which can collect VOCs), dust mites and bacteria. These toxins can remain in carpeting materials for a few years.

The above photo is a non-toxic carpet. It is best to use recycled or natural fiber carpets with natural backing instead of SB synthetic latex which is carcinogenic. Use natural adhesives, or adhesives without 4-phenylcyclohexene (4-PCH) and stay away from vinyl and PVC in the backing.

Get an Air Quality Test with Hawkeye today to see if your home's air quality contains VOCs. Call us at 978-897-7130.