Do I need Formaldehyde Air Testing?

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and is found in many products that show up in Residential homes and Commercial building. Formaldehyde is also a suspected asthma trigger.

 

Recent formaldehyde tests performed by Pacific Northwest Inspections Group on newer homes in the Seattle area are showing a disturbing trend of higher formaldehyde levels. As such, persons purchasing newer homes should seriously consider having the formaldehyde level checked before moving in.

 

In a study published in Environmental Science and Technology, five potential formaldehyde sources were tested. The relative level of formaldehyde emission from each was calculated from the data provided in the report. From the chart below, you can see that insulation produced the lowest emission level and floor finish the highest level.

Material                                                   Relative Formaldehyde

                                                                            Emissions

Top coat, floor finish - after 22 hours                145

1/4 inch UF particleboard                                  49

5/8 inch particleboard underlayment                   16

1/8 inch hardwood veneer plywood                      5

R-19 fiberglass insulation                                   1 

Since formaldehyde from these sources is a construction issue, the amount of make-up air will be important to defining the average level in the home. If the home is under significant negative pressure due to the HVAC system, the formaldehyde emitted from the wall construction could add to the levels from the cabinetry or flooring, making the situation worse. 

 

A simple formaldehyde test will show whether the home requires increased ventilation. 

Call us today to Schedule an IAQ test for your home or building - 425.608.9553 -