HOW TO CHOOSE A NON-TOXIC-ENGINEERED WOOD FLOOR

1. Components of Engineered Wood Flooring 

Engineered wood flooring stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for its sturdy multi-layer structure. Here are the components that make up engineered wood flooring:

1.1 Wear Layer 

The surface layer of engineered wood flooring is usually made from melamine resin, an extremely durable synthetic resin. This layer not only helps protect the floor from scratches, wear, and external impacts but also keeps the floor looking new and beautiful throughout its use.

1.2 Film Layer

 Beneath the surface layer of engineered wood flooring is the film layer, featuring an intricate wood grain pattern. This layer is printed with patterns, colors, and textures that mimic natural wood, bringing a realistic and cozy beauty to your living space.

1.3 Core Layer 

The core layer is the most important part of engineered wood flooring, usually made from high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). This pressed wood is produced from natural wood fibers combined with binders and additives, creating a strong and durable core that ensures the floor's stability and reliability over time.

1.4 Base Layer 

The base layer of engineered wood flooring is typically made from synthetic resin, which helps increase stability and moisture resistance. This layer protects the floor from moisture penetration from the ground or air, reducing the risk of warping and damage due to wetness, keeping your floor beautiful over time.

2. Potential Harmful Substances in Engineered Wood Flooring 

Although engineered wood flooring offers many benefits for living spaces, some people still worry about its safety. Let's explore the potentially harmful substances in engineered wood flooring to gain a clearer perspective:

2.1 Formaldehyde 

Formaldehyde is a common chemical compound, often used in the production of resins and adhesives, particularly in the engineered wood flooring industry. This compound helps increase the durability and adhesion of the wood layers, making the flooring stronger and more durable.
Formaldehyde can cause health issues, especially respiratory and skin allergies, when air concentrations exceed safe levels. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can lead to more serious problems such as asthma or lung diseases.
Engineered wood flooring products are evaluated according to formaldehyde emission standards, with two common safety standards being E1 and E0:

• E1: Maximum formaldehyde emission of 0.1 ppm, ensuring health safety.

• E0: Nearly zero formaldehyde emission, absolutely safe for health.

2.2 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) 

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) can cause unpleasant symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat upon exposure.
These compounds can be released from the surface layer, image layer, or core layer of engineered wood flooring, especially when newly installed or in non-ventilated environments.
High-quality engineered wood flooring products usually have very low VOC emissions and meet strict international safety standards. When choosing engineered wood flooring, you should pay attention to safety certifications related to the product's VOC emission levels to protect your family's health and create a safe living space.

3. How to Check if Engineered Wood Flooring is Harmful? 

To know how to check whether engineered wood flooring is safe and not harmful to health, Timber Villa will share simple ways to check your flooring:

3.1 Check Quality Certifications

E1 and E0 Certifications: Check whether your wood flooring is certified according to E1 or E0 formaldehyde emission standards. These certifications ensure that the formaldehyde level in the product is safe for health, giving you peace of mind when using the flooring in your living space.
VOC Certifications: When choosing wood flooring, look for products certified for VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions. Products with low VOC certifications are generally safer for your health, allowing you to enjoy a fresher and more comfortable living space.
International Certifications: Consider international certifications such as CARB (California Air Resources Board), FloorScore, or GreenGuard when choosing wood flooring. These certifications ensure that the product not only meets environmental safety standards but also protects your health and your family's health.

3.2 Check Material Sample

Smell Test: When opening a box of wood flooring, if you detect a pungent or unpleasant smell, the product may contain high levels of formaldehyde or VOCs. Standard-compliant products usually have no smell or a very light odor.
Material Inspection: Request the supplier to provide material samples for inspection. Quality wood flooring should not show signs of uneven surfaces, peeling coatings, or inconsistent colors.

3.3 Learn Information from the Manufacturer

Technical Information: Request the manufacturer to provide detailed technical information about the product, including components, production processes, and safety standards the product adheres to.
Warranty Policy: Check the manufacturer's warranty policy to ensure you receive the best support if there are issues with the product. Quality products often come with clear and reliable warranty policies.

Currently, Timber Villa is one of the reputable companies of engineered wood flooring at competitive costs. With a professional, enthusiastic, and attentive construction team, we ensure customer satisfaction. If you need fast, quality, and affordable engineered wood flooring installation, contact Timber Villa for the most professional service.

VILLA TIMBER FLOORING & RENOVATION PTY LTD (AUSTRALIA)

Tel: (03) 9191 9898

Mobile: 0434 331 642 (Quang) - 0422 879 868 (Vinh Pham)

Email: inquiry@timbervilla.au

Address: 298 Canterbury Road, Surrey Hills, VIC 3127

VILA WOODEN FURNITURE JOINT STOCK COMPANY (VIET NAM)

Address: 133 Nguyen Nhan, Hoa Tho Dong Ward, Cam Le District, Da Nang City, Vietnam

Hotline: 0905 612 637

Tax: 0401929279

Email: inquiry@timbervilla.au