New research gives evidence that the type of flooring selected can make a difference in the quality of indoor air. A study supported by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) shows that there are bacterial chemicals called endotoxins, which are a by-product of bacteria that is found particularly in indoor areas. “When we analyzed dust samples, we found that kitchen and living room floors had the highest concentrations of endotoxin,” said Darryl C. Zeldin, M.D., a senior investigator at NIEHS. “However, when we looked at where the health impact of the dust was the most significant, we found that the likelihood of having recent asthma symptoms was nearly three times greater among individuals with exposure to high levels of endotoxin in their bedroom flooring.”

According to an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study, sustainable flooring such as cork oak, bamboo, or certified hardwoods can be a healthy alternative for those looking to protect the quality of their indoor air. Cork oak has the added benefit of not harboring allergens, microorganisms, or harmful pesticides. In addition, dust, mold, and mildew are impenetrable to cork oak and it is naturally stain and fire resistant. Unfortunately, treatments that make traditional flooring stain and fire resistant can also be a source of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions and fumes.

There is also the possibility that some flooring may contain toxic chemicals aimed at reducing dust mite infestation. One way to avoid toxic chemicals is to make sure that you choose flooring that doesn’t use formaldehyde glue or binders and that has been off-gassed in the factory. Off-gassing is the name of that “new floor smell” and is a chemical by-product of the manufacturing process. These emissions can be harmful for people who have allergies, asthma, or sensitivities to chemical products, and can affect immune systems. It can take months for these chemicals to off-gas or dry out. Usual symptoms are flu-like. For the healthiest option, consider choosing flooring with the lowest VOC emissions possible.

Amorim’s new line of Wicanders cork oak flooring with Acrodur, developed in a partnership with BASF, is water based and created without the use of toxic solvents like common formaldehydes and polyurethane resins that give off harmful emissions, the company reports.