Due to the high health risk posed by poor indoor air quality, more and more contractors are opting for eco–friendly green products in their constructions. Green flooring is becoming increasingly popular. But choosing green flooring will serve no purpose if the consumables and other accessories that are used in its installation are not also eco–friendly. By this is meant the adhesives, finishes and sealants.

This problem can be partially resolved by using green underlayment which is readily available, and choosing a floating floor that needs no adhesive. Many flooring finishes, especially those extracted from fossil fuels, offgas VOC's or volatile organic compounds which are known to contain potentially carcinogenous benzene and formaldehyde. These prove to be irritants to the eyes and skin and are often the source of asthmatic attacks. Such gases and irritants are absorbed into drapes and upholstery and become a long term health hazard.

Many green finishes are available that contain little or no VOC at all. Consider those made from plant–based pigments that contain the lowest content and are also free of benzene and formaldehyde.

When choosing a green finish, look for the following:

• Minimal content of VOCs
• Free from metal and zinc
• Free of alkyphenol ethoxylate
• Made from recyclable material in biodegradable packaging
• Choose a product with a ph level of less than 11.5