Although hardwood floors have been used for centuries, the way the wood is treated with stains, varnish, polish, and various finishes has changed dramatically over that time. The use of chemicals during the 20th century permeated throughout our lives. Lead in paint, petrol, various chemicals in plastics and even wood floors.
The ongoing troubles for Lumber Liquidators in the USA show just how dangerous some chemicals in wood flooring can be. The amount of formaldehyde emitted from some of Lumber Liquidators’ laminated floor products are known to cause cancer and their case is not unique.
We have seen in recent years customers demanding non-toxic and eco-friendly flooring products. We certainly support this move. Not only is it better for the environment, the drying process smells much better than some of the other products available and it’s simply safer for you and your family. Some of the non-toxic wood floor products include:
- Water-base floor finishes
- Solvent based finishes
- Oil based finishes
We specialise in non-toxic and eco-friendly products and can recommend them for any home. We offer products from Synteko, Loba, Osmo, and others. The products we use are durable, stain resistant, and high coverage. Some of the products are made from natural sources such as:
- Linseed Oil
- Carnauba Wax
- Candelilla Wax
- Sunflower Oil
- Soybean Oil
- Thistle Oil
These finishes are based on natural oils and waxes and are designed to penetrate into the wood surface to protect it from deep within. The waxes form an elastic, micro-porous surface which protects the wood from moisture and abrasions. In fact, the oils, waxes, and pigments that form the basis of these products are so safe that they are classified as “food safe”. Of course, we don’t advise digesting them, but these are some of the safest and eco-friendly wood floor products available.
Call us to find out more.
I never knew timber flooring could be so hazardous. What a great article.
Thank you.
Nicolas H., Toorak