Why Luxury Vinyl Tiles Pose Health Risks

Why Luxury Vinyl Tiles (VTLs) Pose Health Risks - and How Austin Air Purifiers By Allergy Solutions Air Purifiers Can Help

Luxury vinyl tiles (LVTs) have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their durability, affordability, and versatility. However, there are growing concerns about the potential health risks associated with LVTs. In this blog, we will explore why LVTs may be dangerous and how Austin Air Purifiers can help if you already have LVTs installed in your home.

What are Luxury Vinyl Tiles?

Luxury vinyl tiles are a type of synthetic flooring material that is made of several layers of PVC, with a printed design layer on top. LVTs are often marketed as an affordable and easy-to-install alternative to traditional hardwood or tile flooring. They are commonly used in homes, offices, and commercial spaces.

Why LVTs May Be Dangerous

Despite their popularity, there are a few reasons why luxury vinyl tiles may be dangerous to your health. Here are some potential risks:

1. Chemical Off-Gassing: One of the most significant concerns about LVTs is the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemicals into the air. LVTs are made with synthetic materials that can emit harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, phthalates, and heavy metals. These chemicals can have adverse effects on your respiratory system, skin, and overall health.
2. Risk of Fire: LVTs are made of PVC, which is a type of plastic that can catch fire easily. In case of a fire, LVTs can release toxic gases and chemicals, which can be harmful to you and your family's health.
3. Difficult to Recycle: LVTs are not biodegradable and can be difficult to recycle, leading to environmental concerns. When they reach the end of their lifespan, they may end up in landfills, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose.
4. A study published in 2015 in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology concluded that  the association of vinyl flooring with metabolite concentrations support the indoor environment as a substantial and chronic contributor to children’s exposure to the phthalate plasticizer BBzP, a potential risk factor for childhood asthma.

How Austin Air Purifiers Can Help

If you already have LVTs installed in your home, there are steps you can take to minimize the health risks associated with them. One effective solution is to use an air purifier that can remove harmful particles and chemicals from the air. Austin Air Purifiers are some of the best options on the market for removing VOCs and other toxins from your indoor air.

Austin Air Purifiers use a unique four-stage filtration system that includes a pre-filter, activated carbon filter, true HEPA filter, and a specialized filter that targets VOCs and other harmful chemicals. These purifiers can remove up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including VOCs, formaldehyde, and other toxins.

In addition to using an air purifier, you can also take other steps to minimize your exposure to LVTs' potential health risks. These include ensuring proper ventilation in your home, using non-toxic cleaning products, and avoiding smoking or burning candles and incense indoors.

Conclusion

While luxury vinyl tiles are an affordable and versatile flooring option, they may pose significant health risks due to the release of harmful chemicals and the risk of fire. If you already have LVTs installed in your home, using an Austin Air Purifier can help remove harmful particles and chemicals from the air. Additionally, taking steps to improve indoor air quality and minimize your exposure to LVTs' risks can help protect you and your family's health. 

    For more information about how Luxury Vinyl Tiles may be harmful, and for alternatives see Floored:  The Shocking Concerns About Vinyl Flooring, by Kelsey Williams.