Indoor air quality plays a vital role in the health and comfort of your home or business. One of the most concerning pollutants in some wood flooring is formaldehyde, a chemical widely used in adhesives and resins. Understanding its presence, health implications, and safer alternatives can help you make an informed decision that protects you, your family and your business.
Choosing formaldehyde-free timber flooring is one of the best ways to improve indoor air quality. The Solid Wood Flooring Company offers sustainable timber options designed with your health in mind.
What Is Formaldehyde and Why Is It in Flooring?
Formaldehyde is a colourless, strong-smelling gas commonly used to produce pressed-wood products. In the flooring industry, it’s often found in:
- Engineered wood cores made from composite materials
- Adhesives and glues used to bond layers together
- Surface finishes and coatings in cheaper products
While not all wood flooring contains high levels of formaldehyde, it can be present in solid and engineered wood products, especially those manufactured without stringent emission controls.
How Formaldehyde Affects Your Health
Formaldehyde is classified by the World Health Organisation as a known human carcinogen, meaning long-term exposure can increase the risk of certain cancers. But even short-term contact can cause symptoms such as:
- Eye, nose and throat irritation
- Headaches and dizziness
- Respiratory issues, especially in those with asthma
- Worsened allergies in sensitive individuals
Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to its effects. Since we spend most of our time indoors, it’s worth reducing unnecessary exposure wherever we can.
Regulations and Safety Standards You Should Know
There are regulations in place to help minimise the risk of formaldehyde exposure in building materials:
- E1 and E0 classifications are European standards used to measure emissions in milligrams per litre.
- Products labelled E0 emit significantly lower levels of formaldehyde than those classified as E1.
- UK building codes often recommend using materials that meet or exceed these standards.
However, voluntary third-party certifications provide an extra layer of trust. Look for recognisable credentials like:
- FloorScore® certifies flooring for compliance with strict indoor air quality standards.
- FSC® or PEFC confirm the timber comes from responsibly managed forests.
What Are the Safer Alternatives?
When looking for low-toxicity flooring, your safest bet is formaldehyde-free engineered flooring. Opt for engineered products that use non-toxic glues and finishes. These offer the stability of composite wood while ensuring healthier indoor air.
The Solid Wood Flooring Company offers a range of engineered wood flooring solutions that are completely formaldehyde-free and responsibly sourced. These solutions help you create a stylish space without compromising on air quality.
How to Identify Safe Wood Flooring
Not all “green” or “eco” claims are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
- Clear emission ratings – Preferably E0 or FloorScore® certified
- Transparent material disclosures – Check what adhesives and finishes are used
- Avoid vague marketing terms – “Natural” or “eco” may not guarantee non-toxic
Always ask your supplier for formal documentation, and don’t hesitate to request test results or certificates that support their safety claims.
Planning the Switch to Healthier Flooring
Whether you’re renovating or starting fresh, here’s how to plan:
- Assess your current flooring – Identify whether formaldehyde may be present
- Research certified suppliers – Focus on companies with clear sustainability and emissions policies
- Compare long-term value – Healthier options might cost slightly more upfront, but often last longer and reduce health risks
- Get advice from experts – Ask about formaldehyde-free finishes and adhesives during installation
Make the Safer Choice Today
There’s no reason to compromise on style, performance, or health. Ready to make a healthier choice for your home or business? Discover our full range of formaldehyde-free, sustainable timber flooring options from The Solid Wood Flooring Company.