The truth about "off -gassing"

Recently I had a customer who had never purchase carpet before call in and ask for a chemical make up of the carpet because they had heard how detrimental to their health having new carpet can be



Folks, carpet is a petroleum product and they use chemicals to make it. If you have a aversion to certain smells you might want to leave the house for a couple of days with the windows cracked. Or just change the way you think about it. I never hear anyone complain about "that new car smell" Think of it as that "New House Smell" . The same thing is occurring in your new car, the fabrics and cushioning are off gassing



According the the CRI (Carpet and Rug Institute)most "off-gassing" happens within the first 24 hour period



Following is one article for the EPA's web site



Can carpet make people sick?




Like many other household products and furnishings, new carpet can be a source of chemical emissions. Carpet emits volatile organic compounds, as do products that accompany carpet installation such as adhesives and padding. Some people report symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation; headaches; skin irritations; shortness of breath or cough; and fatigue, which they may associate with new carpet installation. Carpet can also act as a "sink" for chemical and biological pollutants including pesticides, dust mites, and fungi.
Individuals purchasing new carpet should ask retailers for information to help them select lower emitting carpet, cushion, and adhesives. Before new carpet is installed, they should ask the retailer to unroll and air out the carpet in a clean, well-ventilated area. They should consider leaving the premises during and immediately after carpet installation or schedule the installation when the space is unoccupied. Opening doors and windows and increasing the amount of fresh air indoors will reduce exposure to most chemicals released from newly installed carpet. During and after installation in a home, use of window fans and room air conditioners to exhaust fumes to the outdoors is recommended. Ventilation systems should be in proper working order, and should be operated during installation, and for 48 to 72 hours after the new carpet is installed.
Individuals should request that the installer follow the Carpet and Rug Institutes's installation guidelines68. If new carpet has an objectionable odor, they should contact their carpet retailer. Finally, carpet owners should follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper carpet maintenance.





This next link leads to a pdf from the CRI about the Myths and Truths of Carpet.







Unfortunately carpet is made up of numerous chemicals, some of them can effect people with allergies, and other sinus problems. Follow the CRI's guide to carpet and you will have a pleasant experience

FIN

FIN

The Idaho House is now complete.

It was a fun job to be a part of.

From the designer to the trades, I think all really put forth great effort. It is truly a job that all involved can and should be proud of

Special thanks to the State of Idaho for the opportunity to serve them, and to R.C. Willey for all the support and freedom they give sales staff.