Informed™ Product Explorer
Use the search bar below or click on a division to explore. Then do an assessment to share with clients and certification programs using the Assessment Form.
We are testing the Product Guidance in a new format. The Informed Product Explorer includes a subset of the products found in the Product Guidance pages. New product types may be added in future updates.
Step up from red — a critical first move. Next, prefer product types ranked yellow and green.
|
Green
|
Best in Class |
|
Light green
|
Better |
|
Yellow
|
Good |
|
Orange
|
Reduce |
|
Light red
|
Eliminate |
|
Red
|
Worst in Class |
Did you know that some composite wood materials require much more binder (and emit more formaldehyde) than others? You can reduce the amount of binder in your cabinetry and help protect building occupants. By reducing the amount of hazardous chemicals used in the manufacturing process you can help protect communities near manufacturing sites.
When it comes to casework, we've outlined a few things you should know regarding wood substrates.
Quick Tips:
- Binders in composite wood are often formaldehyde-based
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Use No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) composite woods when possible
- Plywood has the least amount of binder of composite woods, 3.5% by weight
- MDF is 10% binder by weight and particleboard is 12% binder by weight
- Use solid wood components when available
- Use cabinets made with a hardwood plywood box
- Opt for hardwood plywood shelving instead of particleboard
- Use solid wood veneer facings over laminate
- Use solid wood veneer over thermofoil
- Specify casework that is pre-finished to avoid painting or staining on-site
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Did you know that some composite wood materials require much more binder (and emit more formaldehyde) than others? You can reduce the amount of binder in your cabinetry and help protect building occupants. By reducing the amount of hazardous chemicals used in the manufacturing process you can help protect communities near manufacturing sites.
When it comes to casework, we've outlined a few things you should know regarding wood substrates.
Quick Tips:
- Binders in composite wood are often formaldehyde-based
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Use No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) composite woods when possible
- Plywood has the least amount of binder of composite woods, 3.5% by weight
- MDF is 10% binder by weight
- Use solid wood components when available
- Use cabinets made with a hardwood plywood box
- Opt for hardwood plywood shelving instead of particleboard
- Use solid wood veneer facings over laminate
- Use solid wood veneer over thermofoil
- Specify casework that is pre-finished to avoid painting or staining on-site
Congrats! You're in the green!
By choosing solid wood components, you can reduce the amount of binder in your cabinetry and reduce the amount of hazardous chemicals used in the manufacturing process which can help protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Solid wood components are a great choice from a health perspective and can have additional benefits.
Quick Tips:
- Solid wood components reduces the amount of binder
- Binders are often formaldehyde-based
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Solid wood cabinet doors may have a higher up-front cost, bit they are more durable than composites
Did you know that wood veneer faced cabinets are preferable to plastic laminate clad cabinets because laminates are made with resins that can emit formaldehyde over time? Some cabinets may offer polyvinyl chloride (PVC) edge-banding to treat unfinished edges as well. Be aware that PVC edge-banding is a Chlorinated plastic, and is NEVER a healthy material, especially in its manufacturing and disposal.
Quick Tips:
- Wood veneer faced cabinets are preferable to plastic laminate clad cabinets
- Use solid wood where possible, such as door and drawer fronts
- If you are using composite wood for any part of the construction use plywood
- Use No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) composite wood
- Specify casework arrive pre-finished to avoid painting or staining on-site
- Avoid thermofoil finishes, which are vinyl (PVC)
- Avoid PVC edge-banding
Did you know that HDF uses more binder than plywood? More binder means more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Use solid wood components when possible, such as for door and drawer fronts
- Avoid HDF
- Plywood is preferred over HDF
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that MDF is 10% binder by weight? That's far more than plywood which is 3.5% by weight. More binders mean more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Binders in composite wood are often formaldehyde-based
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- MDF is 10% binder by weight
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Use solid wood components when possible for door and drawer fronts
- Plywood is preferred option over MDF
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 06 41 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Back to 06 41 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Back to 06 41 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Back to 06 41 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Back to 06 41 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Did you know that particleboard uses more binder than any other composite wood - 12% binder by weight? More binders meand more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Particleboard uses more binder than any other composite wood - 12% binder by weight
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Plywood is preferred over particleboard
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that plywood uses less binder (and emits less formaldehyde) than other composite wood material? Plywood is a great choice for components or substrates used in constructing cabinets. By using plywood over other composite wood you can reduce chemical impacts for building occupants, workers at manufacturing facilities, and fenceline communities.
Quick Tips:
- Plywood uses less binder (and emits less formaldehyde) than other composite wood material
- Plywood is 3.5% binder by weight
- MDF is 10% binder by weight
- Particleboard is 12% binder by weight
- Use plywood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that plastic laminates are made with resins that can emit formaldehyde over time? Casework often requires edge-banding to treat unfinished edges and is typically made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) . Be aware that PVC edge-banding is a Chlorinated plastic, and is NEVER a healthy material, especially in its manufacturing and disposal.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use wood veneer faced cabinets
- Use solid wood where possible, such as door and drawer fronts
- If you are using composite wood for any part of the construction use plywood
- Use No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) composite wood
- Specify casework arrive pre-finished to avoid painting or staining on-site
- Avoid thermofoil finishes, which are vinyl (PVC)
- Avoid PVC edge-banding
Did you know that HDF uses more binder than plywood? More binder means more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Use solid wood components when possible, such as for door and drawer fronts
- Avoid HDF
- Plywood is preferred over HDF
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 06 41 16 Plastic-Laminate-Clad Architectural Cabinets
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde production impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers and have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? Whilte PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow or green ranked composite wood
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Urea formaldehyde can be released into interior spaces long after installation
- Revise your project to use a yellow or green ranked composite wood
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements could release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- There is no level of formaldehyde that is known to be safe
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that MDF is 10% binder by weight? That's far more than plywood which is 3.5% by weight. More binders mean more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Binders in composite wood are often formaldehyde-based
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- MDF is 10% binder by weight
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Use solid wood components when possible for door and drawer fronts
- Plywood is preferred option over MDF
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 06 41 16 Plastic-Laminate-Clad Architectural Cabinets
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 06 41 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde production impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers and have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Back to 06 41 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? Whilte PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow or green ranked composite wood
Back to 06 41 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Urea formaldehyde can be released into interior spaces long after installation
- Revise your project to use a yellow or green ranked composite wood
Back to 06 41 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements could release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- There is no level of formaldehyde that is known to be safe
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Back to 06 41 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Did you know that particleboard uses more binder than any other composite wood - 12% binder by weight? More binders meand more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Particleboard uses more binder than any other composite wood - 12% binder by weight
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Plywood is preferred over particleboard
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 06 41 16 Plastic-Laminate-Clad Architectural Cabinets
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde production impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers and have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? Whilte PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow or green ranked composite wood
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Urea formaldehyde can be released into interior spaces long after installation
- Revise your project to use a yellow or green ranked composite wood
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements could release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- There is no level of formaldehyde that is known to be safe
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that plywood uses less binder (and emits less formaldehyde) than other composite wood material? Plywood is a great choice for components or substrates used in constructing cabinets. By using plywood over other composite wood you can reduce chemical impacts for building occupants, workers at manufacturing facilities, and fenceline communities.
Quick Tips:
- Plywood uses less binder (and emits less formaldehyde) than other composite wood material
- Plywood is 3.5% binder by weight
- MDF is 10% binder by weight
- Particleboard is 12% binder by weight
- Use plywood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 06 41 16 Plastic-Laminate-Clad Architectural Cabinets
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde production impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers and have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? Whilte PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow or green ranked composite wood
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Urea formaldehyde can be released into interior spaces long after installation
- Revise your project to use a yellow or green ranked composite wood
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements could release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- There is no level of formaldehyde that is known to be safe
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that antimicrobial additives are regulated as pesticides? There is evidence that shows that antimicrobial additives can leach out of their products and find their way into living spaces and the greater environment. While it may seem like a good idea to treat frequently touched surfaces such as hinges, knobs, handles, with antimicrobial additives, the reality is that there is no evidence that these products improve our health. The choice is clear, skip antimicrobial hardware whenever possible, especially when you consider that these products are often sold at a price premium!
Avoid hardware that contains antimicrobial treatments.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that asphalt-based products contain carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), among other hazardous compounds? By choosing a non-asphalt based product you can avoid these hazardous releases during product manufacture.
While we don't have research on all types of dampproofing, asphalt-based dampproofing products are not preferred. See if you can use a product that is yellow or above. If you must use asphalt-based dampproofing, make sure to choose cold-applied emulsified asphalt dampproofing products over solvent-based damproofing products.
Wait! These products are not preferred!
Did you know that stoddard solvent, a carcinogen and mutagen, is commonly used in solvent-based asphalt dampproofing?
If you must use products in this category, choose cold-applied emulsified asphalt damproofing products over solvent-based damproofing products, which contain hazardous solvents.
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that cold-applied asphalt emulsions generally use less asphalt than other asphalt-based products and typically do not contain solvents? They can, however, contain potassium dichromate, a hexavalent chromium compound, which is a known carcinogen and has many other associated health hazards.
While this is a better choice than solvent-based asphalt dampproofing, you could do even better by revising your product to one ranked yellow or green.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that Stoddard solvent, a carcinogen and mutagen, is commonly used in solvent-based asphalt dampproofing?
This is not a preferred product. If you must use bituminous dampproofing, cold-applied emulsified asphalt is the better choice, but even that type of product contains chemicals of concern. We recommend revisiting your design to see if you can use something other than bituminous dampproofing altogether.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or green.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or green.
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
Did you know that hot-applied asphalt waterproofing uses the largest amount of asphalt per square foot relative to other asphalt-based waterproofing products? These products have the potential for greater impacts on workers and nearby communities through releases of chemicals such as carcinogenic PAHs during manufacturing.
Built-up bituminous waterproofing is not the best choice. See if you can use a product that is yellow or above.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that asphalt-based products contain carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), among other hazardous compounds? By choosing a non-asphalt-based product you can avoid these hazardous releases both during manufacture of the product and application on site.
This is not a preferred product. If possible, choose a product ranked yellow or green.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that hot-applied asphalt waterproofing uses the largest amount of asphalt per square foot relative to other asphalt-based waterproofing products? These products have the potential for greater impacts on workers and nearby communities through releases of chemicals such as carcinogenic PAHs during manufacturing.
This is not a preferred product. If possible, choose a product ranked yellow or green such as sheet and cementitious waterproofing.
Did you know that asphalt-based products contain carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), among other hazardous compounds? By choosing a non-asphalt-based product you can avoid these hazardous releases both during manufacture of the product and application on site.
While we don't have research on this particular type of waterproofing, built-up bituminous waterproofing, including built-up coal tar waterproofing, is not likely to be the best choice. See if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or green.
Did you know that PVC-free thermoplastic sheet waterproofing contains less hazardous content than products made with PVC?
Quick Tips:
- Pay attention to accessory products
- Avoid or reduce site-applied adhesives
- If site-applied adhesives are needed, use acrylic adhesives
- Avoid solvent-based adhesives, urethanes, and epoxies
- Use a mechanical bond
- For self-adhering scenarios, use a non-bituminous/non-asphaltic adhesive
Asphalt-based products contain carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), among other hazardous compounds. By choosing a non-asphalt-based product you can avoid these hazardous releases both during manufacture of the product and application on site.
While we don't have research on this particular type of waterproofing, bituminous sheet waterproofing is not likely to be the best choice. See if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or green. Hint, elastomeric and thermoplastic sheet waterproofing products are likely better choices.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that asphalt-based products contain carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), among other hazardous compounds?
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based products
- Avoid asphalt-based adhesives
- Use elastomeric or thermoplastic sheet waterproofing
- Revise your project to use a product ranked yellow or green
Asphalt-based products contain carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), among other hazardous compounds. By choosing a non-asphalt-based product you can avoid these hazardous releases both during manufacture of the product and application on site.
While we don't have research on this particular type of waterproofing, modified bituminous sheet waterproofing is not likely to be the best choice. Hint, elastomeric and thermoplastic sheet waterproofing products are likely better choices.
By choosing elastomeric over asphalt-based products, you avoid large volumes of carcinogenic PAH compounds released into the air during installation that can be inhaled by workers and expose nearby communities.
While we don't have research on this particular type of waterproofing, elastomeric products tend to be preferred. Proceed with caution. Prefer products with content disclosure documentation such as HPDs or ask the manufacturer to disclose their ingredients and any hazard information.
Did you know that thermoplastic sheet waterproofing made without polyvinyl chloride (PVC) typically requires fewer hazardous chemicals to manufacture, and contains less hazardous content than products made with PVC?
Quick Tips:
- Prefer non-PVC thermoplastic sheet waterproofing.
- Pay attention to accessory products
- Prefer self-adhering products that use mechanical bonds
- If using products utilizing an adhesive bond, prefer non-bituminous/non-asphaltic adhesives
- Prefer acrylic adhesives whenever adhesives must be used
- Avoid solvent-based adhesives, urethanes, and epoxies
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that PVC production uses and releases other hazardous chemicals including mercury, asbestos, and/or PFAS? We recommend revising your project to see if you can use a product ranked yellow or green.
Quick Tips:
- PVC is not a preferred option.
- There is little disclosure on plasticizers, but similar products used in roofing contain orthophthalates, which are endocrine disruptors
- Revise your design to use non-PVC thermoplastic sheet waterproofing
- Adhesives introduce additional chemicals of concern into your project
- Prefer acrylic adhesives over solvent-based adhesives, urethanes, and epoxies
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that thermoplastic sheet waterproofing made without polyvinyl chloride (PVC) typically requires fewer hazardous chemicals to manufacture, and contains less hazardous content than products made with PVC?
Quick Tips:
- Pay attention to accessory products
- Prefer self-adhering products that use mechanical bonds
- If using products utilizing an adhesive bond, prefer non-bituminous/non-asphaltic adhesives
- Prefer acrylic adhesives whenever adhesives must be used
- Avoid solvent-based adhesives, urethanes, and epoxies
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
Did you know that hot-applied asphalt waterproofing uses the largest amount of asphalt per square foot relative to other asphalt-based waterproofing products? These products have the potential for greater impacts on workers and nearby communities through releases of chemicals such as carcinogenic PAHs during manufacturing.
While we have not reviewed all products within this category, those we have assessed are not preferred! See if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or above.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that hot-applied asphalt waterproofing uses the largest amount of asphalt per square foot relative to other asphalt-based waterproofing products? These products have the potential for greater impacts on workers and nearby communities through releases of chemicals such as carcinogenic PAHs during manufacturing.
This is not a preferred product. If possible, choose a product ranked yellow or green such as those in sheet and cementitious waterproofing.
While we don't have research on this particular type of waterproofing, hot fluid-applied polyurea waterproofing is likely not preferred. If possible, choose a product ranked yellow or green such as those in sheet and cementitious waterproofing.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that cold fluid-applied PMMA waterproofing is made up of respiratory sensitizers, including methyl methacrylate and other acrylates? It may also contain orthophthalate plasticizers that are known developmental and reproductive toxicants and endocrine disruptors.
Fluid-applied waterproofing products are not preferred. If possible, choose a product ranked yellow or green such as those in sheet and cementitious waterproofing.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that cold fluid-applied PMMA waterproofing is made up of respiratory sensitizers, including methyl methacrylate and other acrylates? It may also contain orthophthalate plasticizers that are known developmental and reproductive toxicants and endocrine disruptors.
Fluid-applied waterproofing products are not preferred. Try to choose a waterproofing product that is ranked yellow or green. If you must use PMMA waterproofing, confirm with manufacturers that product does not contain orthophthalate plasticizers.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that single-component polyurethane waterproofing is based on isocyanates, which are potent respiratory sensitizers? Other hazardous content in polyurethane waterproofing can include solvents, organotin catalysts, and chlorinated paraffins.
Fluid-applied waterproofing products are not preferred. Try to choose a waterproofing product that is ranked yellow or green. If you must use PU waterproofing, confirm with manufacturers the product does not contain organotin compounds or chlorinated paraffins and choose a lower VOC option.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or green.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or green.
Well, this looks promising.
Did you know that by not using an asphalt-based waterproofing product, you avoid carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other hazardous compounds? Cementitious waterproofing is an improvement but does have concerns you should know about. The manufacture of Portland cement, a main component of cementitious waterproofing, can expose fenceline communities to toxic chemicals, including mercury. Fenceline communities are disproportionately low income communities and/or communities of color. The world needs better waterproofing products!
Crystalline concrete waterproofing is a good choice. While it doesn't get a green ranking due to chemical emissions related to cement manufacture, it does have fewer chemicals of concern during use than many other product options.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we'll dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or green.
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that by not using asphalt-based waterproofing you avoid carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other hazardous compounds? But, you should know, that while crystalline silica waterproofing contains little content expected to be a concern during use, there are some issues with this product. Crystalline silica waterproofing has both fuel-related and process-related emissions stemming from Portland cement manufacture. These emissions can expose fenceline communities to toxic chemicals, including mercury. The world needs better waterproofing products!
Crystalline waterproofing is a preferred product.
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that while crystalline silica waterproofing contains little content expected to be of concern during use, there are still some issues with this product that you should be aware of. Fuel and process related emissions caused by Portland cement manufacture that is necessary to manufacture this product, can expose fenceline communities to toxic chemicals, including mercury. The world needs better waterproofing products!
Crystalline waterproofing is a preferred product.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or green.
Well, this looks promising.
Did you know that by not using an asphalt based waterproofing you avoid carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), among other hazardous compounds? Bentonite sheet waterproofing membranes typically do not contain chemicals likely to be a concern during the products’ use. It is worth noting however, that they are not free of chemical concerns. Bentonite strip mining can expose miners to carciongenic silica dust. The world needs better waterproofing products!
Bentonite sheet waterproofing is a great choice.
While we don't have research on this particular type of waterproofing, bentonite products tend to be a preferred product. But proceed with caution. Prefer products with content disclosure documentation such as HPDs or ask the manufacturer to disclose their ingredients and any hazard information.
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by not using an asphalt-based waterproofing product, you avoid carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other hazardous compounds? Bentonite sheet waterproofing membranes typically do not contain chemicals likely to be of concern during the products’ use, however, they are not free of chemical concerns. Bentonite strip mining can expose miners to carcinogenic silica dust. The world needs better waterproofing products!
Bentonite sheet waterproofing is a preferred product.
Congrats! You're in the green!
While bentonite sheet waterproofing membranes do not contain any chemicals likely to be a concern during the products’ use they are not free of chemical concerns. Did you know that bentonite strip mining can expose miners to carciongenic silica dust? The world needs better waterproofing products!
Bentonite sheet waterproofing is a preferred product.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Do you know the chemicals of highest concern associated with insulation? They include persistent and toxic halogenated flame retardants, formaldehyde-based binders, and asthmagenic isocyanates. In general, we recommend avoiding foam insulation. Whether it comes in rigid board, foamed in place or spray-applied form, it isn't a preferred option.
A wide range of insulation is available on the market. You have the power to help reduce impacts on building occupants, workers, and communities located near manufacturing plants by choosing products ranked yellow and above.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic-based foam insulation (board, foamed in place, or spray foam)
- Prefer products that are based on natural (bio-based) content such as cork, wood fiber, sheep’s wool, or hemp
- Prefer mineral-based products (fiberglass or mineral wool) that are formaldehyde-free
- Prefer recycled cellulose-based (cotton or cellulose) products
- If you need a rigid/board product, use expanded cork, wood fiber, or unfaced formaldehyde-free fiberglass or mineral wool
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that many board insulation materials are petroleum-based plastic, with a range of impacts on fenceline communities and the environment? Rigid, "board" type products made of plastic foam commonly contain persistent and toxic halogenated flame retardants; "persistent" because they last for long periods of time in the environment. By choosing expanded cork, wood fiber, or unfaced formaldehyde-free fiberglass or mineral wool boards, you can avoid these hazardous flame retardants and other plastic impacts.
You have a wide array of options in front of you. To stay out of the red, avoid plastic board insulation and prefer wood fiber, cork, or unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool boards.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic-based foam board insulation
- Plastic foam board insulation can contain halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs), and carcinogens
- Use rigid/board products made from wood fiber, cork, or unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool
- Or, revise your design to use blanket (batt) or blown insulation
- Several blanket and blown insulation types have the lowest installed cost per R-value
- For foam board products, the R-value per inch might be higher, but the R-value per dollar is not
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by using cork board insulation, you typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation? This includes halogenated flame retardants, formaldehyde, and blowing agents that contribute to global warming.
Quick Tips:
- Expanded cork is a great choice from a material health perspective
- This avoids the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation
- Chemicals avoided include halogenated flame retardants and formaldehyde
- Expanded cork board also avoids blowing agents that contribute to global warming
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that foam board insulation is typically petroleum-based plastic, with a range of impacts on fenceline communities and the environment? It also commonly contains persistent halogenated flame retardants.
We recommend avoiding foam insulation. Whether it comes in rigid board, foamed-in-place or spray-applied form, it isn't a preferred option.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic-based foam board insulation
- Plastic foam board insulation can contain halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs) and carcinogens
- Use rigid/board products made from wood fiber, cork, or unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool
- Or, revise your design to use blanket (batt) or blown insulation
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that despite recent reformulation, expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation still contains halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)? Halogenated flame retardants are associated with a host of life cycle and health concerns. Plastic foam insulation can contribute to the release of microplastics into the environment.
If you must use a rigid, board insulation, the safest options are expanded cork, wood fiber, or unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool board that is formaldehyde-free.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid EPS board insulation
- EPS commonly contains halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs)
- Revise your design to use expanded cork or wood fiber board
- Revise your design to use mineral wool board that is formaldehyde-free
- Less preferred options that stay out of the red are standard unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool board, or polyisocyanurate that is free of halogenated flame retardants.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that despite recent reformulation, extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation still contains halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) which are associated with a host of life cycle and health concerns. XPS also contains halogenated blowing agents (either HFCs or HFOs). HFCs have a high global warming potential and are released during the product's life cycle, including manufacturing, use, and end of life. HFOs, touted as being low global warming potential alternatives, still use high global warming and/or ozone depleting chemicals in the manufacturing process. In addition, some halogenated blowing agents are members of the class of chemicals called PFAS or “forever chemicals.”
If you must use a rigid, board insulation, the safest options are expanded cork, wood fiber, or unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool board that is formaldehyde-free.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid XPS board insulation
- XPS commonly contains halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs)
- XPS contains halogenated blowing agents (HFCs or HFOs)
- HFCs have a high global warming potential
- HFOs still use high global warming and/or ozone depleting chemicals in the manufacturing process
- Revise your design to use expanded cork or wood fiber board
- Revise your design to use fiberglass or mineral wool board that is formaldehyde-free
- Less preferred options that stay out of the red are standard unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool board, or polyisocyanurate that is free of halogenated flame retardants.
- Some halogenated blowing agents are PFAS or “forever chemicals" that should be avoided
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Wait! These products are not preferred!
Did you know that most polyisocyanurate insulation contains halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) that are persistent and toxic? In addition, plastic foam insulation can contribute to the release of microplastics into the environment.
If you must use a rigid, board insulation, the safest options are expanded cork, wood fiber, or unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool board that is formaldehyde-free.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid standard polyisocyanurate board insulation
- Most polyisocyanurate board contains halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs), and carcinogens
- Use rigid/board products made from wood fiber, cork, or unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool
- Less preferred board options that stay out of the red are standard unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool board, or polyisocyanurate that is free of halogenated flame retardants.
- Halogen-free polyisocyanurate can be identified by an “NH” in the product name
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that by using halogen-free polyisocyanurate board, aka "polyiso", you typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation? But the reality is, polyiso is a petroleum-based plastic product with a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment.
If you must use a rigid, board insulation, the safest options are expanded cork, wood fiber, or unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool board that is formaldehyde-free.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic-based foam board insulation
- Halogen-free polyisocyanurate board is preferred over standard polyisocyanurate board
- Using halogen-free polyisocyanurate board avoids persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using halogen-free polyisocyanurate board avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Halogen-free polyiso is far from perfect; it uses asthmagenic isocyanates in manufacturing
- Revise your design to use expanded cork or wood fiber board
- Revise your design to use unfaced fiberglass board that is formaldehyde-free
- Revise your design to use mineral wool board that is formaldehyde-free
Back to 07 21 13.13.xx Polyisocyanurate (polyiso) Insulation
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that standard polyisocyanurate insulation, also called "polyiso," commonly contains halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)? These are persistent and toxic chemicals; "persistent" because they last for long periods of time in the environment and once they are in our buildings and environments, they are hard to get rid of. These are chemicals that we would be better off avoiding.
If you must use a rigid, board insulation, the safest options are expanded cork, wood fiber, or unfaced fiberglass or mineral wool board that is formaldehyde-free.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic-based foam board insulation
- If you must use a plastic-based board, halogen-free polyisocyanurate board is preferred over standard polyisocyanurate board
- Polyiso uses asthmagenic isocyanates in manufacturing
- Revise your design to use expanded cork or wood fiber board
- Revise your design to use mineral wool or fiberglass board that is formaldehyde-free and unfaced
Back to 07 21 13.13.xx Polyisocyanurate (polyiso) Insulation
You have a wide array of options in front of you that range from red to green.
Quick Tips:
- Use a wood fiberboard product
- Use unfaced fiberglass boards that are formaldehyde-free
- If you don't need board insulation, consider blanket or blown options
Did you know that some facers for fiberglass insulation can contain halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)? These persistent and toxic chemicals are better off avoided.
Fiberglass board insulation can be a good choice from a material health perspective, but pay attention to the details.
Quick Tips:
- Use unfaced fiberglass boards that don't contain formaldehyde-based binders
- You can usually identify formaldehyde-free products based on descriptions in product literature
- Avoid facing material that contains halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs), and carcinogens
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that most fiberglass board insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders? Facing materials such as ASJ for fiberglass insulation can contain halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) which should be avoided.
Quick Tips:
- Most fiberglass board insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Formaldehyde can be released into spaces during use
- Use unfaced fiberglass boards that are formaldehyde-free
- You can usually identify formaldehyde-free products based on descriptions in product literature or transparency documents
- Revise your design to use a wood fiberboard product
- If you don't need board insulation, consider blanket or blown options
- If you must use boards with a flame retardant facer, ask manufacturers for products that don’t contain halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs), and carcinogens
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that most fiberglass board insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders? Facing materials such as FSK for fiberglass insulation can contain halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) which should be avoided.
Quick Tips:
- Most fiberglass board insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Formaldehyde can be released into spaces during use
- Use unfaced fiberglass boards that are formaldehyde-free
- You can usually identify formaldehyde-free products based on descriptions in product literature or transparency documents
- Revise your design to use a wood fiberboard product
- If you don't need board insulation, consider blanket or blown options
- If you must use boards with a flame retardant facer, ask manufacturers for products that don’t contain halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs), and carcinogens
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by using unfaced, formaldehyde-free fiberglass boards you avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Quick Tips:
- Unfaced, formaldehyde-free fiberglass boards are a good option from a material health perspective
- Using this product typically avoids persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using this product typically avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using this product typically avoids asthmagenic isocyanates, which are a concern during manufacturing of other insulation products
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know most fiberglass board insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders? Formaldehyde (a carcinogen and asthmagen) can be released into communities during manufacturing, and small quantities of residual formaldehyde can be released into interior spaces during use.
Unfaced fiberglass boards are a good option from a material health perspective, but they're not perfect. Here are some tips to help you.
Quick Tips:
- Most fiberglass board insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Formaldehyde can be released into spaces during use
- Use unfaced fiberglass boards that are formaldehyde-free
- You can usually identify formaldehyde-free products based on descriptions in product literature or transparency documents
- Revise your design to use a wood fiberboard product
- Revise your design to use expanded cork board
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by using wood fiberboard insulation, you typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Quick Tips:
- Using wood fiberboard typically avoids persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using wood fiberboard typically avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using wood fiberboard typically avoids asthmagenic isocyanates, which are a concern during manufacturing of other insulation products
Did you know that by using mineral wool insulation you can avoid persistent halogenated flame retardants and asthmagenic isocyanates? It also reduces the impacts associated with plastic materials that are utilized in other insulation products.
Mineral boards can be a good option from a material health perspective, but they're not perfect. Here are some tips to help you.
Quick Tips:
- Most mineral board insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Formaldehyde can be released into spaces during use
- Use unfaced, formaldehyde-free mineral wool boards
- You can usually identify formaldehyde-free products based on descriptions in product literature or transparency documents
- Using mineral board instead of plastic-based board insulation reduces the impacts associated with plastic materials
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by using these products you avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Quick Tips:
- Formaldehyde-free mineral wool boards are a good option from a material health perspective.
- Using this product typically avoids persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using this product typically avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using this product typically avoids asthmagenic isocyanates, which are a concern during manufacturing of other insulation products
- Using mineral board instead of plastic-based board insulation reduces the impacts associated with plastic materials
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know most mineral wool board insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders? Formaldehyde (a carcinogen and asthmagen) can be released into communities during manufacturing, and small quantities of residual formaldehyde can be released into interior spaces during use.
Mineral wool boards are not the best option from a material health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Most mineral wool board insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Formaldehyde can be released in interior spaces during use
- Use mineral wool boards that are formaldehyde-free
- You can usually identify formaldehyde-free products based on descriptions in product literature or transparency documents
- Revise your design to use a wood fiberboard product
- Revise your design to use expanded cork board
- Using mineral board instead of plastic-based board insulation reduces the impacts associated with plastic materials
Did you know that by using blanket insulation, you can avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Quick Tips:
- Blanket insulation is generally a good option from a material health perspective.
- To ensure you avoid the chemicals of highest concern, avoid facing materials if they aren't necessary
- If you use mineral wool blanket (batt), avoid formaldehyde-based binders
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- You can usually identify formaldehyde-free products based on descriptions in product literature or transparency documents
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Cellulose Blanket Insulation is good option from a material health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Using this product typically avoids persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using this product typically avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using this product typically avoids asthmagenic isocyanates
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Cotton Blanket Insulation is good option from a material health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Using this product typically avoids persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using this product typically avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using this product typically avoids asthmagenic isocyanates
Did you know that by using fiberglass blanket insulation you can typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Fiberglass Blanket Insulation can be a good option from a material health perspective but they're not perfect. Here are some tips to help you.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid "faced" products whenever possible to limit the potential for halogenated flame retardants
- Using this product typically avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using this product typically avoids asthmagenic isocyanates
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that flame retardant facers like PSK (polypropylene-scrim-kraft) and FSK (foil-scrim-kraft) can contain halogenated flame retardants?
Quick Tips:
- It is not clear whether FSK faced fiberglass blanket without halogenated flame retardants are available on the market
- Ask manufacturers for products that don’t contain halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs), and carcinogens
- Revise your design to use unfaced products instead of faced insulation
- Use Informed to find a product ranked yellow or above
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
- Prefer unfaced batts when possible to further reduce impacts
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that flame retardant facers like PSK (polypropylene-scrim-kraft) and FSK (foil-scrim-kraft) can contain halogenated flame retardants?
Quick Tips:
- It is not clear whether PSK faced fiiberglass blanket without halogenated flame retardants are available on the market
- Ask manufacturers for products that don’t contain halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)
- HFRs can be persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs), and carcinogens
- Revise your design to use unfaced products instead of faced insulation
- Use Informed to find a product ranked yellow or above
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that hemp fiber blanket insulation avoids the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Hemp fiber blanket Insulation is good option from a material health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Using this product typically avoids persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using this product typically avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using this product typically avoids asthmagenic isocyanates
Did you know that mineral wool blanket insulation avoids some of the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Mineral wool blanket insulation is a good choice from a material health perspective, but not all mineral wool is the same. Here are some tips to help you.
Quick Tips:
- Use products that are formaldehyde-free
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Formaldehyde can be released into spaces during use
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that standard mineral wool blankets use formaldehyde-based binders? Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen.
Quick Tips:
- Most mineral wool blanket insulation uses formaldehyde-based binders
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Formaldehyde can be released in interior spaces during use
- Use mineral wool blanket that are formaldehyde-free
- Use Informed to find a product ranked yellow or above
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that insulation based on sheep's wool avoids the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Sheep's wool blanket Insulation is good option from a material health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Using this product typically avoids persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using this product typically avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using this product typically avoids asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that wood fiber blanket insulation typically avoids the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
Did you know that if you decide to use a polyurethane spray foam insulation product, you are specifying a product that contains asthmagenic isocyanates, persistent toxic halogenated flame retardants (HFRs), and potentially blowing agents that contribute to global warming?
While we don't have research on all foamed in place insulation products, you should be wary as some are the worst in class options in the insulation category.
Quick Tips:
- We recommend revising your project to avoid foamed in place products altogether
- Use Informed to find a product ranked yellow or green instead
- Note that "foamed-in-place" can be confusing -- see "Sprayed Insulation" for non-foam spray materials like cellulose and fiberglass
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that polyisocyanurate is actually a variation of polyurethane, just using different ratios of certain components?
Quick Tips:
- See "Polyurethane Foamed in Place Insulation."
- If you are looking for polyisocyanurate board, see "Polyisocyanurate (polyiso) Insulation."
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that polyurethane foamed-in-place insulation contains asthmagenic isocyanates and persistent, toxic halogenated flame retardants (HFRs)?
Spray polyurethane foam (SPF), both open cell and closed cell, is a poor choice from a health perspective and should be avoided.
Quick Tips:
- This product type contains persistent, toxic halogenated flame retardants
- This product type contains asthmagenic isocyanates
- Isocyanates are a concern during manufacturing and installation
- Use Informed to find a product ranked yellow and above
Wait! You're in the red!
Do you know what MDI is? Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) is a chemical that comprises nearly 50% of the formula for closed cell polyurethane insulation. Manufacturing plants that produce MDI are located in communities that are disproportionately Black, Latino, and/or American Indian or Alaska Native. These plants release hazardous chemicals into nearby air and water and most have a history of non-compliance with EPA regulations.
Closed cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF), is a poor choice from a health perspective and should be avoided.
Quick Tips:
- This product contains MDI
- Production of MDI is located in communities that are disproportionately Black, Latino, and/or American Indian or Alaska Native
- These plants have a history of non-compliance with EPA regulations
- This product type contains halogenated blowing agents, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) or hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs)
- HFCs have a high global warming potential
- HFOs, touted as being low global warming potential alternatives, use high global warming and/or ozone depleting chemicals in the manufacturing process
- Some halogenated blowing agents are members of the class of PFAS or “forever chemicals"
- Revised your design to avoid foamed-in-place insulation altogether
- Use Informed to find a product ranked yellow and above
Wait! You're in the red!
Do you know what MDI is? Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) is a chemical that comprises nearly 50% of the formula for closed cell polyurethane insulation. Manufacturing plants that produce MDI are located in communities that are disproportionately Black, Latino, and/or American Indian or Alaska Native. These plants release hazardous chemicals into nearby air and water and most have a history of non-compliance with EPA regulations.
Open cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF), is a poor choice from a health perspective and should be avoided.
Quick Tips:
- This product contains MDI
- Production of MDI is located in communities that are disproportionately Black, Latino, and/or American Indian or Alaska Native
- These plants have a history of non-compliance with EPA regulations
- This product type contains halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) which can be persistent and toxic
- Revised your design to avoid foamed-in-place insulation altogether
- Use Informed to find a product ranked yellow and above
Well, this looks promising.
Did you know that loose fill insulations typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern that are found in insulation?
While we do not have research on all product types in this CSI category, loose fill insulations are generally good options from a material health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Using this product typically avoids persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using this product typically avoids carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using this product typically avoids asthmagenic isocyanates
- Some of these products (fiberglass and cellulose) have the lowest installed cost per given R-value
- The R-value per inch for many foam products is higher but the R-value per dollar is not
- For some of these product, plan early; there is limited availability in some regions
Nice! These are preferred products!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Dense pack cellulose insulation is a good choice from a material health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Using dense pack cellulose insulation helps avoid persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using dense pack cellulose insulation helps avoid carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using dense pack cellulose insulation helps avoid asthmagenic isocyanates
- However, cellulose insulation is not perfect; it contains boric acid as a flame retardant
- Boric acid is less of a concern than other flame retardants
- Boric acid is a reproductive toxicant, and can be a concern for occupants should dust make its way into living spaces
- Dense packing cellulose insulation uses more insulation per R-value and therefore more boric acid than loose fill
- To further reduce impacts for dense-pack applications, use fiberglass, mineral wool, sheep's wool, or wood fiber
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Loose fill cellulose insulation is a good choice from a material health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Loose fill cellulose insulation uses less boric acid than dense pack
- Boric acid is a flame retardant
- Boric acid is less of a concern than other flame retardants
- Boric acid is a reproductive toxicant, and can be a concern for occupants should dust make its way into living spaces
- Using loose pack cellulose insulation helps avoid persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using loose pack cellulose insulation helps avoid carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using loose pack cellulose insulation helps avoid asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Blown fiberglass insulation can be installed loose or dense-packed.
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Quick Tips:
- Watch out for mineral wool loose-fill products that include a binder
- While not common, some products may include a binder which can have additional hazards throughout the product life cycle
- Products that do not use a binder are often called “unbonded"
- Using mineral wool loose-fill insulation helps avoid persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using mineral wool loose-fill insulation helps avoid carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using mineral wool loose-fill insulation helps avoid asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Quick Tips:
- Blown mineral wool insulation can be installed loose or dense-packed.
- Watch out for blown mineral wool products that include a binder
- While not common, some products may include a binder which can have additional hazards throughout the product life cycle
- Products that do not use a binder are often called “unbonded"
- Using blown mineral wool insulation helps avoid persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using blown mineral wool insulation helps avoid carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using blown mineral wool insulation helps avoid asthmagenic isocyanates
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Blown sheep's wool insulation can be installed loose or dense-packed.
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Blown wood fiber insulation can be installed loose or dense-packed.
Nice! These are preferred products!
Did you know that blown insulations typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern that are found in insulation? Some blown insulation materials may be more expensive than other product types or have limited availability in some regions, requiring advanced planning. However, commonly used fiberglass and cellulose insulation are some of the most preferred products from a health perspective. What's more, these products have the lowest installed cost per given R-value. While the R-value per inch is higher for many foam products, the R-value per dollar is not.
Blown insulations are generally good options from a material health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Using blown insulations helps avoid persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using blown insulations helps avoid carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using blown insulations helps avoid asthmagenic isocyanates
- Some of these products (fiberglass and cellulose) have the lowest installed cost per given R-value
- The R-value per inch for many foam products is higher but the R-value per dollar is not
Nice! These are preferred products!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Quick Tips:
- Using blown insulation helps avoid persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using blown insulation helps avoid carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using blown insulation helps avoid asthmagenic isocyanates
- However, cellulose insulation is not perfect; it contains boric acid as a flame retardant
- Boric acid is less of a concern than other flame retardants
- Boric acid is a reproductive toxicant, and can be a concern for occupants should dust make its way into living spaces
- Dense packing cellulose insulation uses more insulation per R-value and therefore more boric acid than loose fill
- To further reduce impacts for dense-pack applications, use fiberglass, mineral wool, sheep's wool, or wood fiber
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Blown fiberglass insulation can be installed loose or dense-packed.
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
Quick Tips:
- Blown mineral wool insulation can be installed loose or dense-packed.
- Watch out for blown mineral wool products that include a binder
- While not common, some products may include a binder which can have additional hazards throughout the product life cycle
- Products that do not use a binder are often called “unbonded"
- Using blown mineral wool insulation helps avoid persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using blown mineral wool insulation helps avoid carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using blown mineral wool insulation helps avoid asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Blown sheep's wool insulation can be installed loose or dense-packed.
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Blown wood fiber insulation can be installed loose or dense-packed.
Nice! These are preferred products!
Did you know that fiberglass and cellulose insulation have the lowest installed cost per given R-value? While the R-value per inch is higher for many foam products, the R-value per dollar is not. Fiberglass and cellulose insulation typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern that show up in insulation.
Commonly used fiberglass and cellulose insulation are some of the most preferred products from a health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Terms used for sprayed insulation can be confusing -- see "Foamed-in-Place Insulation" for foam spray materials like spray polyurethane foam
- Using fiberglass or cellulose sprayed insulation helps avoid persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Using fiberglass or cellulose sprayed insulation helps avoid carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Using fiberglass or cellulose sprayed insulation helps avoid asthmagenic isocyanates
- These products have some of the lowest installed cost per given R-value
- The R-value per inch for many foam products is higher but the R-value per dollar is not
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that these products typically avoid the chemicals of highest concern found in insulation?
This includes:
- Persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Carcinogenic formaldehyde
- Asthmagenic isocyanates
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
Did you know that built up roofing exposes workers and communities to carcinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
We don't have research on all built-up bituminous roofing products, but this is probably not the best choice for a low-slope roof.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid bituminous-based products due to their asphalt content
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
Did you know built up roofing exposes workers and communities to carcinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
If opting for asphalt-based roofing, choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR). Consider different roofing options such as TPO or EPDM roofing membranes.
Quick Tips:
- Choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR)
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know built up roofing exposes workers and communities to carcinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
Quick Tips:
- Choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR).
- Consider different roofing options such as TPO or EPDM roofing membranes
Consider different roofing options such as TPO or EPDM roofing membranes.
While we don't have research on cold-applied built-up asphalt roofing, this is likely not a preferred choice.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Did you know built up roofing exposes workers and communities to cacinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
While we don't have research on all coal tar roofing, this is likely not a preferred choice.
Quick Tips:
- If opting for asphalt-based roofing, choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR)
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know built up roofing exposes workers and communities to cacinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
Quick Tips:
- If opting for asphalt-based roofing, choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR)
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that this product contains a large amount of asphalt which contains chemicals of concern including carcinogens? These chemicals can be released during installation especially if heated. While this membrane type is an improvement over built up roofing, that's largely due to requiring fewer layers for installation.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens, which are released, especially when the membranes are heated during manufacturing and installation.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 52 13 Atactic-Polypropylene-Modified Bituminous Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens, which are released, especially when the membranes are heated during manufacturing and installation.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 52 13 Atactic-Polypropylene-Modified Bituminous Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 52 13 Atactic-Polypropylene-Modified Bituminous Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens, which are released, especially when the membranes are heated during manufacturing and installation.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 52 16 Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene Modified Bituminous Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens that are released especially when heated during installation.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 52 16 Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene Modified Bituminous Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens that are released especially when heated during installation.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 52 16 Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene Modified Bituminous Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 52 16 Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene Modified Bituminous Membrane Roofing
Well, this looks promising.
Did you know that by choosing elastomeric membrane roofing over asphalt roofing types you can help avoid large volumes of carcinogenic compounds from being released into the air? These compounds are released during installation of asphalt-based systems and can be inhaled by workers and people in nearby communities.
While we don't have research on all elastomeric membrane roofing products, here are a few general notes about Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) to get you started.
Quick Tips:
- EPDM is preferred over asphalt
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- EPDM is the most commonly used elastomeric membrane product used on the market today
- EPDM membranes aren't perfect but they are preferred over asphalt
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use a product that is ranked yellow or green
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that by choosing EPDM over PVC roofing, you have avoided orthophthalates, also known as phthalates? Phthalates are well-known for their ability to disrupt the hormonal system, so avoiding them is a good thing. But you should also know that EPDM membranes aren't perfect. EPDM contains process oils that are suspected carcinogens, and have been found to leach zinc, which is toxic to aquatic life. The world needs better roofing membrane options!
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) membranes are made from a polymer that uses fewer hazardous chemicals than PVC membranes.
Quick Tips:
- EPDM is preferred over PVC
- PVC contains orthophthalates, a hormone disruptor
- EPDM membranes aren't perfect
- Be sure to prefer mechanically fastened installation over adhesives
- Glues can introduce chemicals of concern on your project
- If you need a fully adhered option, use a water-based adhesive to avoid toxic solvents
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that by choosing thermoplastic membrane roofing over asphalt roofing you can help avoid the release of carcinogenic bitumen compounds into the air during installation that can be inhaled by workers and expose nearby communities?
Thermoplastic membrane roofing is typically a better choice than asphalt-based roofing, so that's encouraging. But not all thermoplastics are equal.
Quick Tips:
- Pay attention to what kind of thermoplastic membrane you select
- Select Thermoplastic-Polyolefin (TPO) over Polyvinyl-Chloride (PVC) membranes
- PVC membranes commonly contain orthophthalates, a hormone disruptor
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that more hazardous chemicals are used to make PVC than other plastic materials and have significant impacts on surrounding communities?
While KEE roofing is a better choice than asphalt based roofing, KEE roofing is still made of PVC. This makes KEE a less preferred option than EPDM or TPO roofing materials.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
- Design a mechanically fastened installation over adhesives
- Adhesives introduce additional chemicals of concern into your project
- If you need a fully adhered option, prefer water-based adhesives to avoid toxic solvents
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that orthophthalates are a developmental toxicant that have been banned in children's toys and phased out of flooring? Did you know that PVC production uses and releases other hazardous chemicals including mercury, asbestos, and/or PFAS? We recommend revising your project to see if you can use a product ranked yellow or green.
PVC roofing contains chemicals of concern, including orthophthalates - up to 25% by weight! More hazardous chemicals are used to make PVC than other plastic materials.
Quick Tips:
- PVC a not a preferred option
- PVC membranes commonly contain orthophthalates, a hormone disruptor
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
- Design a mechanically fastened installation over adhesives
- Adhesives introduce additional chemicals of concern into your project
- If you need a fully adhered option, prefer water-based adhesives to avoid toxic solvents
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by choosing TPO over PVC roofing, you have avoided 10,000s of lbs of developmental toxicants (orthophthalates) per 100,000 sq ft of roofing?
TPO membranes typically contain less human health or environmental hazards than other roofing products. They are also made with polymers that are synthesized using fewer hazardous chemicals than PVC membranes.
Quick Tips:
- Prefer mechanically adhered installation over adhesives
- Adhesives introduce additional chemicals of concern into your project
- If you need a fully adhered option, prefer water-based adhesives to avoid toxic solvents
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
A wide range of membrane types can be used in protected membrane roofing.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
Did you know that built up roofing exposes workers and communities to carcinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
We don't have research on all built-up bituminous roofing products, but this is probably not the best choice for a low-slope roof.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid bituminous-based products due to their asphalt content
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
Did you know built up roofing exposes workers and communities to carcinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
If opting for asphalt-based roofing, choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR). Consider different roofing options such as TPO or EPDM roofing membranes.
Quick Tips:
- Choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR)
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 55 51 Built-Up Bituminous Protected Membrane Roofing
Consider different roofing options such as TPO or EPDM roofing membranes.
While we don't have research on cold-applied built-up asphalt roofing, this is likely not a preferred choice.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 55 51.xx Built-Up Asphalt Protected Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know built up roofing exposes workers and communities to carcinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
Quick Tips:
- Choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR).
- Consider different roofing options such as TPO or EPDM roofing membranes
Back to 07 55 51.xx Built-Up Asphalt Protected Membrane Roofing
Did you know built up roofing exposes workers and communities to cacinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
While we don't have research on all coal tar roofing, this is likely not a preferred choice.
Quick Tips:
- If opting for asphalt-based roofing, choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR)
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 55 51 Built-Up Bituminous Protected Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know built up roofing exposes workers and communities to cacinogenic bitumen and bitumen fumes?
Quick Tips:
- If opting for asphalt-based roofing, choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR)
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 55 51 Built-Up Bituminous Protected Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that this product contains a large amount of asphalt which contains chemicals of concern including carcinogens? These chemicals can be released during installation especially if heated. While this membrane type is an improvement over built up roofing, that's largely due to requiring fewer layers for installation.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens, which are released, especially when the membranes are heated during manufacturing and installation.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 55 52 Modified Bituminous Protected Membrane Roofing
Wait! You're in the red!
This product type is an improvement over built up roofing, but only because it reduces the number of layers required. It's worth noting that these products still contain a large amount of asphalt. Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens, which are released, especially when the membranes are heated during manufacturing and installation.
While this is a better choice than built up roofing, there are still better low slope roofing materials out there.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid asphalt-based roofing systems
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Back to 07 55 52 Modified Bituminous Protected Membrane Roofing
Well, this looks promising.
Did you know that by choosing elastomeric membrane roofing over asphalt roofing types you can help avoid large volumes of carcinogenic compounds from being released into the air? These compounds are released during installation of asphalt-based systems and can be inhaled by workers and people in nearby communities.
While we don't have research on all elastomeric membrane roofing products, here are a few general notes about Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) to get you started.
Quick Tips:
- EPDM is preferred over asphalt
- Asphalt contains chemicals of concern, including carcinogens
- EPDM is the most commonly used elastomeric membrane product used on the market today
- EPDM membranes aren't perfect but they are preferred over asphalt
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use a product that is ranked yellow or green
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that by choosing EPDM over PVC roofing, you have avoided orthophthalates, also known as phthalates? Phthalates are well-known for their ability to disrupt the hormonal system, so avoiding them is a good thing. But you should also know that EPDM membranes aren't perfect. EPDM contains process oils that are suspected carcinogens, and have been found to leach zinc, which is toxic to aquatic life. The world needs better roofing membrane options!
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) membranes are made from a polymer that uses fewer hazardous chemicals than PVC membranes.
Quick Tips:
- EPDM is preferred over PVC
- PVC contains orthophthalates, a hormone disruptor
- EPDM membranes aren't perfect
- Be sure to prefer mechanically fastened installation over adhesives
- Glues can introduce chemicals of concern on your project
- If you need a fully adhered option, use a water-based adhesive to avoid toxic solvents
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that by choosing thermoplastic membrane roofing over asphalt roofing you can help avoid the release of carcinogenic bitumen compounds into the air during installation that can be inhaled by workers and expose nearby communities?
Thermoplastic membrane roofing is typically a better choice than asphalt-based roofing, so that's encouraging. But not all thermoplastics are equal.
Quick Tips:
- Pay attention to what kind of thermoplastic membrane you select
- Select Thermoplastic-Polyolefin (TPO) over Polyvinyl-Chloride (PVC) membranes
- PVC membranes commonly contain orthophthalates, a hormone disruptor
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that more hazardous chemicals are used to make PVC than other plastic materials and have significant impacts on surrounding communities?
While KEE roofing is a better choice than asphalt based roofing, KEE roofing is still made of PVC. This makes KEE a less preferred option than EPDM or TPO roofing materials.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
- Design a mechanically fastened installation over adhesives
- Adhesives introduce additional chemicals of concern into your project
- If you need a fully adhered option, prefer water-based adhesives to avoid toxic solvents
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that orthophthalates are a developmental toxicant that have been banned in children's toys and phased out of flooring? Did you know that PVC production uses and releases other hazardous chemicals including mercury, asbestos, and/or PFAS? We recommend revising your project to see if you can use a product ranked yellow or green.
PVC roofing contains chemicals of concern, including orthophthalates - up to 25% by weight! More hazardous chemicals are used to make PVC than other plastic materials.
Quick Tips:
- PVC a not a preferred option
- PVC membranes commonly contain orthophthalates, a hormone disruptor
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
- Design a mechanically fastened installation over adhesives
- Adhesives introduce additional chemicals of concern into your project
- If you need a fully adhered option, prefer water-based adhesives to avoid toxic solvents
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by choosing TPO over PVC roofing, you have avoided 10,000s of lbs of developmental toxicants (orthophthalates) per 100,000 sq ft of roofing?
TPO membranes typically contain less human health or environmental hazards than other roofing products. They are also made with polymers that are synthesized using fewer hazardous chemicals than PVC membranes.
Quick Tips:
- Prefer mechanically adhered installation over adhesives
- Adhesives introduce additional chemicals of concern into your project
- If you need a fully adhered option, prefer water-based adhesives to avoid toxic solvents
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
We don't have research on all types of fluid-applied roofing, but most likely, this is not the best roofing choice for a low-slope roof.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that Polymethyl-Methacrylate (PMMA) roofing systems use respiratory sensitizers, like methyl methacrylate, during installation? This can expose intallation workers to chemicals of concern.
Fluid-applied PMMA roofing is not a preferred material from a health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- PMMA uses respiratory sensitizers, like methyl methacrylate, reacted on site
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
The team is hard at work adding more product types to this guidance.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
We don't have research on all product types in this category, but most likely, this is not the best roofing choice for a low-slope roof.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
You chose a green roofing system which can be a great roofing option. But, don't negate all the good that a green roof can do by installing it with poorly-ranked materials. Green Roofing systems use a variety of membrane roofing/waterproofing materials as part of their assembly and these membranes can introduce unnecessary chemicals of concern into your project.
Quick Tips:
- Check the membrane being used in your green roofing system
- Thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO) is one of the best membrane roofing choices from a material health perspective
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
We don't have research on all types of fluid-applied roofing, but most likely, this is not the best roofing choice for a low-slope roof.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that Polymethyl-Methacrylate (PMMA) roofing systems use respiratory sensitizers, like methyl methacrylate, during installation? This can expose intallation workers to chemicals of concern.
Fluid-applied PMMA roofing is not a preferred material from a health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- PMMA uses respiratory sensitizers, like methyl methacrylate, reacted on site
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
The team is hard at work adding more product types to this guidance.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that spray foam roofing contains asthmagenic isocyanates and persistent halogenated flame retardants? The blowing agents used in spray foam roofing contribute to global warming.
Spray foam roofing is not a preferred product from a health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Spray foam roofing contains asthmagenic isocyanates and persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Blowing agents used in spray foam contribute to global warming
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that spray foam roofing contains asthmagenic isocyanates and persistent halogenated flame retardants? The blowing agents used in spray foam contribute to global warming.
Spray foam roofing is not a preferred material from a health perspective.
Quick Tips:
- Spray foam roofing contains asthmagenic isocyanates and persistent halogenated flame retardants
- Blowing agents used in spray foam contribute to global warming
- Revise your design to use thermoplastic-polyolefin (TPO)
- Revise your design to use Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
The team is hard at work adding more product types to this guidance.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard.
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Well, this looks promising.
Did you know that because these products don't react or dry on-site, risk of expsure to hazardous content during application and use is low? The low density of pre-compressed polyurethane joint sealants means lower overall quantity of hazardous chemicals relative to other products.
While we haven't researched every product in this category, pre-compressed polyurethane joint sealants are a preferred product type.
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that because these products don't react or dry on-site, risk of expsure to hazardous content during application and use is low? The low density of pre-compressed polyurethane joint sealants means lower overall quantity of hazardous chemicals relative to other products.
While we haven't researched every product in this category, pre-compressed polyurethane joint sealants are a preferred product type.
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that because these products don't react or dry on-site, risk of expsure to hazardous content during application and use is low? The low density of pre-compressed polyurethane joint sealants means lower overall quantity of hazardous chemicals relative to other products.
This is a preferred product type.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a joint protection product that is ranked yellow or green.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a joint protection product that is ranked yellow or green.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a joint protection product that is ranked yellow or green.
Within this category, there are preferred product types such as acrylic and latex sealants, which contain lower amounts of hazardous chemcials compared to other joint sealants.
You have some choices ahead of you. While we haven't reviewed every type of joint sealant product, we have found that acrylic sealants and pre formed products (like foam tape) are preferred joint protection products from a material health perspective.
Did you know that acrylic and latex sealants are preferred from a health perspective? They contain lower amounts of hazardous chemcials compared to other sealants.
Elastomeric joint sealants cover a wide variety of sealant types. Try to look for acrylic or latex sealants that are low VOC (≤ 25 g/L) and phthalate-free.
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While no longer common, these sealants may still contain phthalate plasticizers which are endocrine disruptors. So ask your manufacturer for full disclosure of product contents and related hazards. Select a product that is phthalate-free!
Acrylic or latex sealants tend to contain lower amounts of chemicals of concern than other sealants.
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that acrylic and latex sealants tend to contain fewer chemicals of concern compared to other sealants? You can do even better by using a product that is phthalate-free and very low VOC (≤ 25 g/L).
This is a preferred product type. Look for very low VOC (≤ 25 g/L) products and make sure they are phthalate-free.
Back to 07 92 13.xx Elastomeric Acrylic and Latex Joint Sealants (Non-Acoustical)
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that unlike silicone sealants, which are chemically cured, siliconized latex sealants cure from evaporation of water? These preferred products are similar to standard latex sealants but they have silicone fluid or silanes added to them to help with adhesion under wet conditions.
This is a preferred product type. Look for very low VOC (≤ 25 g/L) products and make sure they are phthalate-free.
Back to 07 92 13.xx Elastomeric Acrylic and Latex Joint Sealants (Non-Acoustical)
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that these products may contain large amounts of Stoddard solvent, which is a carcinogen and mutagen?
See if you can select a product type ranked yellow or green. If you must use butyl rubber sealants, prefer lower VOC products.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that modified polymer sealant products commonly contain around 15% phthalates? By choosing a phthalate-free option, you can avoid this group of chemicals, many of which are known endocrine disruptors and reproductive toxicants. Phthalates have also been associated with asthma.
See if you can select a product type ranked yellow or green. If you must use this type of sealant, select a product that has fully disclosed contents and uses non-phthalate plasticizers, like polypropylene glycol.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that polyurethane sealants rely on isocyanates which are are potent respiratory sensitizers? They have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma!
These are not preferred products. See if you can select a product type ranked yellow or green. If you must use polyurethane sealants, prefer single-component products that are phthalate-free and do not contain organotin catalysts, such as dibutyltin dilaurate.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that single-component polyurethane sealants commonly contain isocyanates TDI and MDI? These are potent respiratory sensitizers and have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma. These sealants can also contain phthalate plasticizers and organotin catalyst, developmental and reproductive toxicants, respectively.
This is not a preferred product. See if you can select a product type ranked yellow or green. If you must use a single-component polyurethane sealant, make sure it is PVC-free, phthalate-free, and doesn't contain organotin catalyst such as dibutyltin dilaurate.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that two-part polyurethane sealants contain higher levels of unreacted isocyanates than one-part systems? Isocyanates are potent respiratory sensitizers and have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma. These sealants can also contain phthalate plasticizers and organotin catalyst, developmental and reproductive toxicants, respectively.
This is not a preferred product. See if you can select a product type ranked yellow or green. If you must use a two-component polyurethane sealant, try to find one that is phthalate-free and doesn't contain organotin catalyst such as dibutyltin dilaurate.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that silicone sealant formulations can contain organotin catalysts like dibutyltin dilaurate, which is a reproductive toxicant? If you must use a silicone sealant, try to find one with titanium-based catalysts instead.
Silicone products are not preferred due to inherent hazards in the chemistry of silicones.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that these products commonly contain antimicrobials? Antimicrobials are known to have adverse health impacts and may potentially contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Sanitary silicone sealants also typically contain something called, PBT C13-15 alkane (a petroleum distillate), which is a plasticizer. If you must use a mildew-resistant or sanitary silicone sealant, make sure your selection does not contain this chemical!
Is a sanitary sealant required? We recommend limiting the use of this product to areas where it is truly needed, such as damp environments.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that acrylic and latex sealants would be preferred over this type of sealant? That's because those types of products are usually lower in chemicals of concern. If you must use silicone sealants, avoid formulations with organotin catalysts like dibutyltin dilaurate, which is a reproductive toxicant and look for a product that uses titanium-based catalysts instead.
Single-component silicone sealants are not a preferred product type.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard. In the meantime, see if you can use a product that is ranked yellow or green.
While we haven't researched all Acoustical Joint Sealants, we do recommend formulas that are water-based. Did you know that acrylic and latex-based products can help avoid hazardous solvents that are in butyl rubber products? If this a product you use often let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Use products that are water-based
- Look for formulas that are acrylic or latex-based
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Did you know that by selecting drywall made from natural gypsum you are choosing a product that typically results in lower levels of environmental mercury releases?
When it comes to gypsum board, the most important choice you can make is to select a board made from natural gypsum. Steer away from drywall that uses synthetic, FGD, or pre-consumer recycled gypsum, these are all derived from coal fired power plant by-products.
Nice! These are preferred products!
Did you know that by selecting drywall made from natural gypsum you are choosing a product that typically results in lower levels of environmental mercury releases?
Natural gypsum is a preferred option for gypsum board.
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that by selecting gypsum board made from natural gypsum you are choosing a product that typically results in lower levels of environmental mercury releases? However, both paper-faced and fiberglass-faced mold resistant gypsum board commonly contain additives to help repel moisture as well as antimicrobials. Antimicrobials used in drywall can be carcinogens and mutagens and most are toxic to aquatic life. Drywall marketed as antimicrobial may be adding more hazardous antimicrobial chemicals to their products without any additional benfit to human health.
While preventing mold growth is an important characteristic for some applications, mold-resistant products contain antimicrobials. These antimicrobials can have adverse health effects, and may contribute to antimicrobial resistance. See if you can use gypsum board that does not contain antimicrobials. If you must use a moisture resistance gypsum board, try to limit its use.
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by selecting drywall made from natural gypsum you are choosing a product that typically results in lower levels of environmental mercury releases? And by avoiding the use of mold- and moisture-resistant gypsum board you have reduced the use of antimicrobials. Antimicrobials used in drywall can be carcinogens and mutagens and most are considered toxic to aquatic life. They may also contribute to antimicrobial resistance.
You are chosing the best product from a human and environmental health perspective. Bonus points if you can find a product that uses post-consumer recycled gypsum.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that synthetic gypsum, FGD, flue-gas desulfurization gypsum or pre-consumer recycled content, all contribute to higher levels of environmental mercury releases?
Synthetic gypsum, also known as FGD gypsum, is not a preferred product. When it comes to gypsum board, try to use a product that has the lowest amount of FGD gypsum possible. Helpful hint, synonyms for FGD are also listed as synthetic or PRE-consumer recycled content. Steer clear of these!
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that antimicrobials used in drywall can be carcinogens and mutagens and most are considered toxic to aquatic life? Ask your manufacturer to fully disclose product contents, including antimicrobials, and associated hazards.
Mold-resistant gypsum board contains antimicrobials which can have adverse health effects. Only use mold-resistant drywall when it is absolutely necessary! And, make sure that your gypsum board is made from natural gypsum, not synthetic. This will bump you up to yellow!
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that antimicrobials used in drywall can be carcinogens and mutagens and most are considered toxic to aquatic life? By avoiding the use of mold- and moisture-resistant gypsum board you have reduced the chance of these antimicrobials, which is great! Antimicrobials may also contribute to antimicrobial resistance. But, you can do even better and move up to green, by using gypsum board made with natural gypsum instead of synthetic gypsum.
While you may be avoiding antimicrobials typically associated with moisture resistant gypsum board, you are still opting for a board made with synthetic gypsum. Unfortunately synthetic drywall manufacturing process can release higher levels of mercury into the environment so this is not a preferred product.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research. Please help us by advocating to manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's Open Standard.
Did you know that just by using ceramic tile you can avoid chemicals of concern that are often found in plastic products? Plastics such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC or "vinyl") have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment.
While we don't have research on all tiling products, ceramic tiles can be a great option if the tiles are lead-free.
Quick Tips
- Look for tile products that are verified to be lead free
- Toxic lead compounds can occur in glazes or the tile body
- Some manufacturers recycle old cathode ray tubes (CRTs) in tile production; CRTs contain lead.
- Numerous authoritative bodies agree, there is no safe exposure level for lead
Did you know that lead is a developmental toxicant with no known safe exposure limits for children? While some manufacturers have phased out toxic lead compounds from ceramic tile glazes, others have not.
Ceramic or porcelain tiles or slabs can be a great option for countertops or flooring but be sure the product you want to use is lead-free. Lead can come from two places in ceramic or porcelain; either intentionally added to the glaze or from certain types of recycled content that end up in the tile body itself.
Quick Tips:
- Ask manufacturers to verify that their tile and glaze is free of added lead
- Ask manufacturers to disclose the source of any recycled content
- Grout can introduce chemicals of concern so use large-format tiles or slabs to reduce the amount of grout needed
- Avoid epoxy grouts
- Avoid sealers advertised as “oil-repelling", these typically contain (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS))
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent, do not readily break down, and can bioaccumulate in the environment
- Some manufacturers add old cathode ray tubes (CRTs) as recycled content in tile production; CRTs contain lead.
- Numerous authoritative bodies agree, there is no safe exposure level for lead
Did you know that some manufacturers have not phased out the use of toxic lead compounds for their glazes? Lead is a persistent and bioaccumulative toxicant with cancer, developmental, and reproductive hazards and numerous authoritative bodies agree, there is no safe exposure level.
If used in a large-format such as slabs or panels, ceramic or porcelain can be a great countertop option but ensure your product is lead free.
Quick Tips:
- Ask manufacturers to verify that their tile and glaze is free of added lead
- Ask manufacturers to disclose the source of any recycled content
- Toxic lead compounds can occur in glazes or the tile body
- Some manufacturers add old cathode ray tubes (CRTs) as recycled content in tile production; CRTs contain lead.
- Grout can introduce chemicals of concern so large-format tiles or slabs can reduce the amount of grout needed
- Avoid epoxy grouts
- Avoid sealers advertised as “oil-repelling", these typically contain (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS))
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent, do not readily break down, and can bioaccumulate in the environment
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that by using lead-free tile and avoiding PFAS-based sealers, you are avoiding some of the highest priority chemicals in this product category? PFAS are found in the blood of people and animals all over the world. They are a high priority to avoid because they can be toxic, persist in the environment, and build up in body tissue over time.
Quick Tips:
- Grout sealers advertized as "oil-repelling" typically contain PFAS. Look for sealers that are "water-repelling" only
- Grout can introduce chemicals of concern so large-format tiles or slabs reduce the amount of grout needed
- Revise your design and use a "slab" product instead of individual tiles
- Avoid epoxy grouts
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that lead is a developmental toxicant with no known safe exposure limit for children and that per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, (PFAS) can persist in the environment, and build up in body tissues over time?
While it might be appealing to see "recycled content" on a product label, unidentified recycled content when it comes to ceramic or porcelain tiles is unwise. Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs), which contain a large percentage of lead, may be recycled into the body of the tile. Also, some manufacturers have phased out the intentional addition of toxic lead compounds to tile glazes, but others have not.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid ceramic or porcelain tiles that cannot confirm they are lead-free
- Toxic lead compounds can occur in glazes or the tile body
- Avoid ceramic or porcelain tiles with undisclosed recycled content
- Some manufacturers add old cathode ray tubes (CRTs) as recycled content in tile production; CRTs contain lead
- Avoid ceramic or porecelain slab finished with oil-repelling sealers, which typically contain (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS))
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent, do not readily break down, and can bioaccumulate in the environment
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by using a product free of lead and verifying the source of recycled content, you are avoiding some of the highest priority chemicals in this product category? Lead is a developmental toxicant with no know safe exposure limit for children.
Lead can enter our homes through toxic glazes on porcelain slabs. Ensuring the porcelain slab you want to use for your countertop is made without toxic glazes is a smart approach.
Quick Tips:
- By using a large format (a porcelain slab) you reduce the amount of grout and sealer
- Confirming that recycled content does not contain old cathode ray tubes (CRTs) eliminates a known source of lead.
- Reducing grouts and sealers also reduces hazardous chemicals like PFAS, known as "forever chemicals"
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that lead is a persistent and bioaccumulative toxicant with cancer, developmental, and reproductive hazards? Numerous authoritative bodies agree, there is no safe exposure level for lead.
While it might be appealing to see "recycled content" on a product label, unidentified recycled content when it comes to porcelain slab is unwise. Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs), which contain a large percentage of lead, may be recycled into the body of the tile. Also, some manufacturers have phased out the intentional addition of toxic lead compounds to tile glazes, but others have not.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid ceramic or porcelain slab that cannot confirm it is lead-free
- Toxic lead compounds can occur in glazes or the tile body
- Avoid ceramic or porcelain slab with undisclosed recycled content
- Some manufacturers use old cathode ray tubes (CRTs) as recycled content in tile production; CRTs contain lead
- Avoid ceramic or porecelain slab finished with oil-repelling sealers, which typically contain (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS))
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent, do not readily break down, and can bioaccumulate in the environment
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Did you know that some manufacturers add old cathode ray tubes (CRTs) as recycled content in tile production and that those old tubes contain lead? Did you know that lead is a persistent and bioaccumulative toxicant with cancer, developmental, and reproductive hazards? Numerous authoritative bodies agree, there is no safe exposure level for lead.
Ceramic tile can be a great flooring option but make sure to follow these tips to ensure the product you want to use is lead-free.
Quick Tips:
- Ask manufacturers to verify that their tile and glaze is free of added lead
- Ask manufacturers to disclose the source of any recycled content
- Toxic lead compounds can occur in glazes or the tile body
- Some manufacturers use old cathode ray tubes (CRTs) as recycled content in tile production; CRTs contain lead
- Grout can introduce chemicals of concern so use large-format tiles or slabs to reduce the amount of grout needed
- Avoid epoxy grouts
- Avoid sealers advertised as “oil-repelling", these typically contain (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS))
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent, do not readily break down, and can bioaccumulate in the environment
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by using tiles that are lead-free, you avoid a persistant and bioacummulative toxicant associated with cancer, developmental, and reproductive hazards? Numerous authoritative bodies agree, there is no safe exposure level for lead.
Be sure to take advantage of HBN's Flooring specifications for language you can use to ensure your ceramic tiles stay in the green.
Quick Tips:
- Grout can introduce chemicals of concern so use large-format tiles or slabs to reduce the amount of grout needed
- Avoid epoxy grouts
- Avoid sealers advertised as “oil-repelling", these typically contain (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS))
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent, do not readily break down, and can bioaccumulate in the environment
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that lead is a persistant and bioacummulative toxicant with cancer, developmental, and reproductive hazards? Numerous authoritative bodies agree, there is no safe exposure level for lead.
While it might be appealing to see "recycled content" on a product label, unidentified recycled content when it comes to ceramic or porcelain tiles is unwise. Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs), which contain a large percentage of lead, may be recycled into the body of the tile. Also, some manufacturers have phased out the intentional addition of toxic lead compounds to tile glazes, but others have not.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid ceramic or porcelain tiles that cannot confirm they are lead-free
- Toxic lead compounds can occur in glazes or the tile body
- Avoid ceramic or porcelain tiles with undisclosed recycled content
- Some manufacturers use old cathode ray tubes (CRTs) as recycled content in tile production; CRTs contain lead
- Avoid ceramic or porecelain slab finished with oil-repelling sealers, which typically contain (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS))
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent, do not readily break down, and can bioaccumulate in the environment
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
There are many preferred flooring options below. In addition, concrete has the potential to be a great flooring option but it depends on how it is finished. Accessory products can introduce chemicals of concern. For example, oil-repelling concrete sealers typically contain PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment and build up in body tissues over time. Concrete with no finish/accessories or only using a densifier that doesn't contain PFAS are ranked green for flooring. Concrete with sealers or with densifiers/coatings that contain PFAS are ranked red.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Did you know that by choosing cork flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment.
Quick Tips:
- Prefinished cork is a preferred flooring material over vinyl (PVC) and other plastic-based flooring types
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that by choosing laminate flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring, including PVC (vinyl)? However, it is worth noting that laminate floors typically contain and emit formaldehyde, a carcinogen. See if you can consider using a product ranked green on your project.
We recommend avoiding laminate if possible. If you must use laminate, consider the following recommendations:
Quick Tips:
- Prefer laminate with a NAUF (no added urea formaldehyde) or NAF (no added formaldehyde) binder
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Avoid adhesives for installation
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Well, this looks promising.
Did you know that homogeneous cork floors are a relatively low hazard flooring option, with a large percentage of the product being natural cork? But be sure to do your homework! Some cork flooring products include inner or decorative layers that are PVC (vinyl). Ask your manufacturer if their products are PVC free.
Quick Tips:
- Use prefinished cork
- Avoid products that contain PVC (vinyl)
- Avoid the use of potentially hazardous adhesives by designing a floating floor
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that homogeneous cork floors are a relatively low hazard flooring option, with a large percentage of the product being natural cork? But be sure to do your homework! Some some cork flooring products include inner or decorative layers that are PVC (vinyl). Ask your manufacturer if their products are PVC free.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid products that contain PVC (vinyl)
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the yellow or move up to green
Did you know that homogeneous cork floors are a relatively low hazard flooring option, with a large percentage of the product being natural cork? But be sure to do your homework! Some some cork flooring products include inner or decorative layers that are PVC (vinyl). Ask your manufacturer if their products are PVC free. Select a prefinished product.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use prefinished cork
- Avoid products that contain PVC (vinyl)
- Avoid the use of potentially hazardous adhesives by designing a floating floor
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that synthetic turf flooring is petroleum-based and has significant impacts on neighboring communiites throughout the manufacturing supply chain? All synthetic turf systems can introduce synthetic materials into the environment through the breakdown of the artificial grass. Evidence also shows that most turf and infill is not recycled, further reason to avoid this product!
This is not a preferred product because it replaces grass with a product that is mostly plastic.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use real grass for outdoor applications
- Revise your project to use safer options such as linoleum or cork for interior applications
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that infill used for outdoor products probably comes from tire-derived rubber or plastic? A portion of this infill is lost each year, creating microplastic pollution.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product
- Revise your project to use real grass for outdoor applications
- Revise your project to use safer options such as linoleum or cork for interior applications
Wait! You're in the red!
Coated sand infill can contain antimicrobials. Did you know that the same features that make antimicrobials effective against microbes can harm human health and the environment? They may also contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Worse yet, lack of recycling options for synthetic turf is another reason to avoid this product.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product.
- Petroleum-based products like synthetic turf impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
- Coatings on coated sand infill can be acrylic, requiring the use of respiratory sensitizing chemicals
- Coatings can contain antimicrobials
- Lack of recycling options for synthetic turf means it usually ends up in landfill or is otherwise discarded
- This product can introduce synthetic materials into the environment as it breaks down over time
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know test data on EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) infill identified PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), heavy metals, and phthalates? EPDM also contains zinc oxide, which is highly toxic to aquatic life. Worse yet, lack of recycling options for synthetic turf is another reason to avoid this product.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product.
- Petroleum-based products like synthetic turf impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
- EDPM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) infill contains chemicals that are highly toxic to aquatic life
- Lack of recycling options for synthetic turf means it usually ends up in landfill or is otherwise discarded
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that a shock pad is typically required with installation of this type of product? This can introduce even more chemicals of concern on your project. Worse yet, lack of recycling options for synthetic turf is another reason to avoid this product.
Quick Tips:
- While plant-based infill can contain fewer toxic chemicals, this is not a preferred product.
- Petroleum-based products like synthetic turf impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
- Plant-based infill is usually made of cork, coconut fiber, walnut shells, rice husks, or wood particles
- Plant-based infills can be chemically treated introducing antimicrobials
- This product can introduce allergens, dust, and mold
- Lack of recycling options for synthetic turf means it usually ends up in landfill or is otherwise discarded
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that a shock pad is typically required with installation of this type of product? This can introduce even more chemicals of concern on your project. Worse yet, lack of recycling options for synthetic turf is another reason to avoid this product.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product because it replaces grass with a product that is mostly plastic.
- Petroleum-based products like synthetic turf impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
- Lack of recycling options for synthetic turf means it usually ends up in landfill or is otherwise discarded
- This product can introduce synthetic materials into the environment as it breaks down over time
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that test data on TPE infill revealed the presence of some chemicals of concern including PBTs (persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic substances) lead and cadmium, and hormone mimicking phthalates? Lack of recycling options for synthetic turf is another reason to avoid this product.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product
- TPE infill can introduce phthalates, as well as PBTs (persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic substances) lead and cadmium
- Lack of recycling options for synthetic turf means it usually ends up in landfill or is otherwise discarded
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that crumb rubber readily picks up chemical pollutants from the environment? Worse yet, crumb rubber can also degrade into very small particle sizes that can be inhaled. Lastly, lack of recycling options make this an undesirable choice.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product.
- This product contains the most hazardous chemicals of any infill
- This product contains carcinogens, mutagens, and/or reproductive and developmental toxicants
- Crumb rubber can degrade into small particles that can be inhaled
- Lack of recycling options for synthetic turf means it usually ends up in landfill or is otherwise discarded
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Did you know that by choosing wood flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment.
This can be a preferred product! But pay attention as you have choices ahead of you.
Quick Tips:
- Prefer solid wood over composite products
- Prefer pre-finished products to avoid on-site exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that by choosing wood flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment.
You still have some choices ahead of you.
Quick Tips:
- Prefer solid wood over engineered wood
- Prefer pre-finished products to avoid on-site exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that by choosing wood flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment. Prefinished floors also keep the chemically intensive finishing processes in a more controlled environment.
Quick Tips:
- Prefer products with no added formaldehyde
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Pre-finished products avoid on-site exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the yellow or move up to green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that by choosing wood flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment. But, be aware that engineered wood typically contains formaldehyde-based binders. Also, when finished on site, volatile and sometimes flammable chemicals in stains and topcoats can be brought into the project in an uncontrolled way, exposing installers and others nearby.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use prefinished engineered wood flooring, solid wood flooring, or linoleum
- Binders for engineered wood typically contain formaldehyde
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Prefer products with no added formaldehyde
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by choosing wood flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment. You also avoid added formaldehyde, a carcinogen, which is used in the binder for most engineered wood flooring. Prefinished floors also keep the chemically intensive finishing processes in a more controlled environment.
Quick Tips:
- Pre-finished products avoid on-site exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
- By choosing solid wood flooring you avoid added formaldehyde
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the green
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by choosing wood flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment. You also avoid added formaldehyde, a carcinogen, which is used in the binder for most engineered wood flooring.
Quick Tips:
- By choosing solid wood flooring you avoid added formaldehyde
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Prefer pre-finished products to avoid on-site exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the green
Did you know that by choosing wood flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use solid wood strip or solid wood plank flooring over engineered wood
- Prefer pre-finished products to avoid on-site exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that by choosing wood flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment. Prefinished floors also keep the chemically intensive finishing processes in a more controlled environment.
Quick Tips:
- Prefer products with no added formaldehyde
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Pre-finished products avoid exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the yellow or move up to green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that by choosing wood flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring? This includes PVC (vinyl) and other plastics which have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment. But, be aware that when finished on site, volatile and sometimes flammable chemicals in stains and topcoats can be brought into the project in an uncontrolled way, exposing installers and others nearby.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use prefinished laminated (engineered) wood flooring, solid wood flooring, or linoleum
- Binders for engineered wood typically contain formaldehyde
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Prefer products with no added formaldehyde
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to yellow or green
Did you know that by choosing bamboo flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring, including PVC (vinyl) and other plastics that have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment?
Not bad, you are yellow or orange. Consider the tips below to stay in the yellow or move up to the green.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use solid wood strip or solid wood plank flooring to move up to green
- Prefer pre-finished products to avoid on-site exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that by choosing bamboo flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring, including PVC (vinyl) and other plastics that have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment? And, even better, this prefinished option keeps chemically intensive finishing processes in a more controlled environment where it belongs.
Quick Tips:
- Pre-finished products avoid on-site exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the yellow or move up to green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that by choosing bamboo flooring, you avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring, including PVC (vinyl) and other plastics that have a range of negative impacts on fenceline communities and the environment? But be aware that when finished on site, volatile and sometimes flammable chemicals in stains and topcoats can be brought into the project in an uncontrolled way, exposing installers and others nearby.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use solid wood flooring or linoleum
- Prefer pre-finished products to avoid on-site exposures to harmful chemicals used in the finishing process
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that linoleum is a preferred resilient floor? Other resilient flooring is mainly derived from petroleum-based plastics or rubber. These materials have significant impacts on neighboring communities throughout the manufacturing supply chain. In general, fenceline communities are disproportionately low income communities and/or communities of color. PVC (vinyl) uses more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring.
You have some choices ahead of you. Pay attention to the details that we have bulleted below.
Quick Tips:
- Linoleum is a preferred resilient floor
- Petroleum-based plastic or rubber products significantly impact communities throughout the supply chain
- PVC (vinyl) uses the more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use linoleum flooring and create an integral base
- Revise your project to use a wood base over resilient base
- If you must use a resilient base, choose rubber over PVC (vinyl)
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use linoleum flooring and create an integral base
- Revise your project to use a wood base over resilient base
- If you must use a resilient base, choose rubber over PVC (vinyl)
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that resilient flooring is mainly derived from petroleum-based plastics or rubber? These materials have significant impacts on neighboring communiites throughout the manufacturing supply chain. In general, fenceline communities are disproportionately low income communities and/or communities of color. PVC (vinyl) uses more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring!
You have some choices ahead of you. Pay attention to the details that we have bulleted below.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use linoleum over plastic-based resilient products to get into the green
- Prefer a PVC (vinyl)-free product if you must use plastic flooring
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that a primary input for polyurethane is asthmagenic isocyanates, which are a leading cause of work-related asthma? Polyurethane resilient flooring is similar to PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring in terms of composition. And while polyurethane has fewer life cycle concerns than vinyl, it still has impacts that would be best to avoid by chosing a product ranked yellow or green.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use solid wood, PVC-free, or linoleum flooring
- Polyurethane uses asthmagenic isocyanates
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that PVC (vinyl) uses more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring? Because of the toxic materials required to make vinyl and the toxic pollution created when it is disposed of, vinyl floors of any kind are not a preferable material. Almost all plastic flooring is petroleum-based with significant impacts on neighboring communities throughout the manufacturing supply chain. In general, fenceline communities are disproportionately low income communities and/or communities of color.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product.
- Revise your project to omit vinyl flooring
- PVC (vinyl) uses more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that PVC (vinyl) uses more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring? Because of the toxic materials required to make vinyl and the toxic pollution created when it is disposed of, vinyl floors of any kind are not a preferable material. Almost all plastic flooring is petroleum-based with significant impacts on neighboring communiites throughout the manufacturing supply chain. In general, fenceline communities are disproportionately low income communities and/or communities of color.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product.
- Revise your project to omit vinyl flooring
- If you must use vinyl, make sure it doesn't contain phthalates
- Avoid products containing recycled vinyl
- Recycled vinyl can introduce hazardous lead, arsenic, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), and plasticizers into new products
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that PVC (vinyl) uses more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring? Because of the toxic materials required to make vinyl and the toxic pollution created when it is disposed of, vinyl floors of any kind are not a preferable material. Almost all plastic flooring is petroleum-based with significant impacts on neighboring communiites throughout the manufacturing supply chain. In general, fenceline communities are disproportionately low income communities and/or communities of color.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product.
- Revise your project to omit vinyl flooring
- Avoiding recycled vinyl can prevent hazardous lead, arsenic, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), and plasticizers.
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
Wait! These products are not preferred!
Did you know that rubber floors can have significant life cycle impacts because of the hazardous inputs used in rubber production? Worse yet, if recycled rubber is used, it's typically coming from recycled tire scrap. This scrap or "tire crumb rubber" has significant hazards including carcinogens and developmental toxicants.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product. Consider wood, linoleum, or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or green.
- Rubber production uses hazardous chemicals with significant lifecycle impacts
- Recycled rubber typically uses recycled tire scrap
- Tire scraps or "tire crumb rubber" contain carcinogens and developmental toxicants
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that rubber floors can have significant life cycle impacts because of the hazardous inputs used in rubber production?
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product. Consider wood, linoleum or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or green.
- Rubber production uses hazardous chemicals with significant lifecycle impacts
- Avoiding recycled rubber can prevent the introduction of harmful carcinogens and developmental toxicants associated with tire crumb rubber.
- You can refer to HBN Flooring specifications for language to ensure you avoid tire crumb rubber.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that rubber floors can have significant life cycle impacts because of the hazardous inputs used in rubber production? Worse yet, if recycled rubber is used, it's typically coming from recycled tire scrap. This scrap or "tire crumb rubber" has significant hazards including carcinogens and developmental toxicants.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product. Consider wood, linoleum or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or green.
- Rubber production uses hazardous chemicals with significant lifecycle impacts
- Recycled rubber typically uses recycled tire scrap
- Tire scraps or "tire crumb rubber" contain carcinogens and developmental toxicants
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to the yellow or green
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know these products typically avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring, including PVC (vinyl) which uses more hazardous inputs than other type of plastic flooring?
This category covers PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring that isn’t linoleum, rubber, or polyurethane.
Quick Tips:
- PVC-free flooring typically avoids the chemicals of most concern in flooring
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the yellow or move up to green
Did you know that resilient flooring is mainly derived from petroleum-based plastics or rubber? These materials have significant impacts on neighboring communiites throughout the manufacturing supply chain. In general, fenceline communities are disproportionately low income communities and/or communities of color. PVC uses more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring!
You have some choices ahead of you. Pay attention to the details that we have bulleted below.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use linoleum over plastic-based resilient products to get into the green
- Prefer PVC (vinyl)-free or polyester composition tile flooring to stay in the yellow
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that a primary input for polyurethane is asthmagenic isocyanates, which are a leading cause of work-related asthma? Polyurethane resilient flooring is similar to PVC-free resilient flooring in terms of composition. And while polyurethane has fewer life cycle concerns than vinyl, it still has impacts that would be best to avoid by choosing a product ranked yellow or green.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product.
- Revise your project to use solid wood, linoleum, or PVC (vinyl)-free flooring to move into the yellow or green
- Polyurethane production uses harmful asthmagenic isocyanates
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know these products typically avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring, including PVC (vinyl) which uses more hazardous inputs than other type of plastic flooring?
This category covers PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring that isn’t linoleum, rubber, or polyurethane.
Quick Tips:
- PVC-free flooring typically avoids the chemicals of most concern in flooring
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the yellow or move up to green
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that PVC (vinyl) uses more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring? Because of the toxic materials required to make vinyl and the toxic pollution created when it is disposed of, vinyl floors of any kind are not a preferable material. Almost all plastic flooring is petroleum-based with significant impacts on neighboring communities throughout the manufacturing supply chain. In general, fenceline communities are disproportionately low income communities and/or communities of color.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product.
- Revise your project to omit vinyl flooring
- PVC (vinyl) uses more hazardous inputs than other types of plastic flooring
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
Wait! You're in the red!
This is not a preferred product.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to omit vinyl flooring
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to the yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
This is not a preferred product.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to omit vinyl flooring
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to the yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
This is not a preferred product.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to omit vinyl flooring
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to the yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
This is not a preferred product.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to omit vinyl flooring
- If you must use vinyl, avoid harmful phthalate plasticizers
- Avoid products containing recycled vinyl
- Recycled vinyl can introduce hazardous lead, arsenic, PCBs, and plasticizers into new products
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to the yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
This is not a preferred product.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to omit vinyl flooring
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to the yellow or green
Wait! These products are not preferred!
Did you know that rubber floors can have significant life cycle impacts because of the hazardous inputs used in rubber production? Worse yet, if recycled rubber is used, it's typically coming from recycled tire scrap. This scrap or "tire crumb rubber" has significant hazards including carcinogens and developmental toxicants.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product. Consider wood, linoleum or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or green.
- Rubber production uses hazardous chemicals with significant lifecycle impacts
- Recycled rubber typically uses recycled tire scrap
- Tire scraps or "tire crumb rubber" contain carcinogens and developmental toxicants
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that rubber floors can have significant life cycle impacts because of the hazardous inputs used in rubber production?
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product. Consider wood, linoleum or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or green.
- Rubber production uses hazardous chemicals with significant lifecycle impacts
- Avoiding recycled rubber can prevent the introduction of harmful carcinogens and developmental toxicants associated with tire crumb
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to the yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that rubber floors can have significant life cycle impacts because of the hazardous inputs used in rubber production? Worse yet, if recycled rubber is used, it's typically coming from recycled tire scrap. This scrap or "tire crumb rubber" has significant hazards including carcinogens and developmental toxicants.
Quick Tips:
- This is not a preferred product. Consider wood, linoleum or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or green
- Rubber production uses hazardous chemicals with significant lifecycle impacts
- Recycled rubber typically uses recycled tire scrap
- Tire scraps or "tire crumb rubber" contain carcinogens and developmental toxicants
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to the yellow or green
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know these products typically avoid the chemicals of most concern in flooring, including PVC (vinyl) which uses more hazardous inputs than other type of plastic flooring?
Quick Tips:
- PVC-free flooring like this typically avoids the chemicals of most concern in flooring
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the yellow or move up to green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that linoleum is made primarily from bio-based and low hazard ingredients? It's a very good option for flooring!
Make sure linoleum is secure in your specifications.
Quick Tips:
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to stay in the green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Wait! These products are not preferred!
Did you know that carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastic and only lasts a fraction of the life span of most other flooring products? By not installing carpet, you can help avoid chemicals of concern and reduce chemical impact of manufacturing that negatively impact nearby communities.
This is not a preferred product. You have some choices ahead of you.
Quick Tips:
- Carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastics
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
- Carpets last a fraction of the lifespan of most flooring products
- Revise your project to use wood flooring, linoleum, and certain ceramics over carpet to move to yellow or green
Wait! These products are not preferred!
Did you know that carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastic and only lasts a fraction of the life span of most other flooring products? By not installing carpet, you can help avoid chemicals of concern and reduce chemical impact of manufacturing that negatively impact nearby communities.
This is not a preferred product. You have some choices ahead of you.
Quick Tips:
- Carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastics
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
- Carpets last a fraction of the lifespan of most flooring products
- Revise your project to use wood flooring, linoleum, and certain ceramics over carpet to move to yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know this product is one of the worst choices because it contains the chemicals and chemical classes that are the highest priority to avoid? These chemicals have significant life cycle concerns, introduce heavy metals into products, and are avoidable.
This is not a preferred product. Consider using other flooring products types such as wood flooring, linoleum, or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or above.
Quick Tips:
- This product contains high priority chemicals to avoid.
- If you must use carpets, avoid PFAS (polyfluoralkyl substances), also known as "forever chemicals" because they last for long periods of time in the environment and once they are in our buildings and environments, they are hard to get rid of
- Prefer alternative backings like polyolefin, and avoid fly ash
- Revise your project to use wood flooring, linoleum, and certain ceramics over carpet to move to yellow or green
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to yellow or green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastic and only lasts a fraction of the life span of most other flooring products? The short service life means it will need to be replaced more frequently, compounding the life cycle impacts. This type of carpet avoids some high priority chemicals, but may still contain other chemicals of concern like antimicrobials and flame retardants.
This is not a preferred product. Consider using other flooring product types such as wood flooring, linoleum, or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or above.
Quick Tips:
- Carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastics
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
- Carpets last a fraction of the lifespan of most flooring products
- Revise your project to use wood flooring, linoleum, and certain ceramics over carpet to move to yellow or green
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to yellow or green
Wait! These products are not preferred!
Did you know that carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastic and only lasts a fraction of the life span of most other flooring products? By not installing carpet, you can help avoid chemicals of concern and reduce chemical impact of manufacturing that negatively impact nearby communities.
This is not a preferred product. Consider using other flooring product types such as wood flooring, linoleum, or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or above.
Quick Tips:
- Carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastics
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
- Carpets last a fraction of the lifespan of most flooring products
- Revise your project to use wood flooring, linoleum, and certain ceramics over carpet to move to yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know this product is one of the worst choices because it contains the chemicals and chemical classes that are the highest priority to avoid? These chemicals have significant life cycle concerns, introduce heavy metals into products, and are avoidable.
This is not a preferred product. Consider using other flooring products types such as wood flooring, linoleum, or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or above.
Quick Tips:
- This product contains high priority chemicals to avoid.
- If you must use carpets, avoid PFAS (polyfluoralkyl substances), also known as "forever chemicals" because they last for long periods of time in the environment and once they are in our buildings and environments, they are hard to get rid of
- Prefer alternative backings like polyolefin
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to yellow or green
- Revise your project to use wood flooring, linoleum, and certain ceramics over carpet to move to yellow or green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastic and only lasts a fraction of the life span of most other flooring products? The short service life means it will need to be replaced more frequently, compounding the life cycle impacts. This type of carpet avoids some high priority chemicals, but may still contain other chemicals of concern like antimicrobials and flame retardants.
This is not a preferred product. Consider using other flooring product types such as wood flooring, linoleum, or PVC (vinyl)-free resilient flooring to move up to yellow or above.
Quick Tips:
- Carpet is typically made of petroleum-based plastics
- Petroleum-based products impact the health of communities through the manufacturing supply chain
- Carpets last a fraction of the lifespan of most flooring products
- Check HBN flooring specifications for language you can include in your specs to move up to yellow or green
- Revise your project to use wood flooring, linoleum, and certain ceramics over carpet to move to yellow or green
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Did you know that U.S. consumption of architectural paint in 2020 was over 850 million gallons? Imagine the opportunity this presents to remove harmful chemicals from our buildings and planet!
Paint is a great place to start using healthier materials. Pay attention to the details that we have bulleted below.
Quick Tips:
- Prefer paints with low VOC content and low VOC emissions
- Avoid paints containing APEs (alkylphenol ethoxylates)
- APEs are hazardous endocrine disruptors
- Avoid paints containing PFAS (perfluorinated alkyl substances)
- PFAS are also known as "forever chemicals" because they last for long periods of time in the environment and once they are in our buildings and environments, they are hard to get rid of
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Our research on exterior paints is not yet complete. You can help by asking manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration Collaborative) Open Standard.
Exterior paints can differ from interior paints in their binders, solvents, and anti-freeze agents.
Quick Tips:
- Use our guidance for interior paints to get you started while we complete our research.
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Did you know that safer latex paints are typically the same cost as standard paints? By preferring paints that are free of alkylphenol ethoxylates (APE) and free of PFAS you can avoid hundreds to thousands of pounds of endocrine disrupting chemicals and "forever chemicals" in your buildings for no added cost!
In addition to VOCs, many other substances can be hazardous to the health of painters, building occupants, and the environment.
Quick Tips:
- Safer latex paints typically cost the same as standard paints
- Prefer paints with low VOC content and low VOC emissions
- Avoid paints containing APEs (alkylphenol ethoxylates)
- APEs are hazardous endocrine disruptors
- Avoid paints containing PFAS (perfluorinated alkyl substances)
- PFAS are also known as "forever chemicals" because they last for long periods of time in the environment and once they are in our buildings and environments, they are hard to get rid of.
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that interior paints can contain hundreds of grams of VOCs per liter of paint and still be in compliance with the US EPA Clean Air Act? That is about a quarter of the product by weight! Primers can contain even more VOCs and still be in compliance, so we recommend you use a paint that complies with SCAQMD Rule 1113.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use a product ranked yellow or above that meets at least the low VOC content requirements of SCAQMD Rule 1113
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Nice! These are preferred products!
Did you know that by choosing a paint with low VOC content you can avoid hundreds of grams of VOCs per liter? That adds up quickly to over a hundred pounds of VOC per one hundred gallons of paint! Keep in mind that the SCAQMD Rule allows up to 100 grams per liter of VOCs in primers, so just like multiple coats of paint can increase the overall project’s VOCs, the use of a higher VOC primer can as well.
Choosing a paint with low VOC content is a step in the right direction, but pay attention to the details that we have bulleted below.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid paints containing APEs (alkylphenol ethoxylates)
- APEs are hazardous endocrine disruptors
- Avoid paints containing PFAS (perfluorinated alkyl substances)
- PFAS are also known as "forever chemicals" because they last for long periods of time in the environment and once they are in our buildings and environments, they are hard to get rid of
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by choosing a paint without endocrine disrupting alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs), you can avoid hundreds of pounds of this hormone mimicking chemical in your project? Don't forget to ask your manufacturer about the use of PFAS too - PFAS are "forever chemicals" and you should avoid manufacturers' that can't confirm their products are PFAS free.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid paints containing PFAS (perfluorinated alkyl substances)
- PFAS are also known as "forever chemicals" because they last for long periods of time in the environment and once they are in our buildings and environments, they are hard to get rid of
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by making this paint choice, you are helping to avoid hundreds of pounds of endocrine disrupting (hormone mimicking) chemicals, and hundreds of grams of VOCs in your project? GS-11 stands for GreenSeal-11 and it is a standard that prohibits the use of several notable things: 1) Preservatives that emit formaldehyde into the paint over time, 2) Heavy metals such as lead and mercury, and 3) Any chemical or material which is considered a carcinogen, mutagen, reproductive toxicant, hazardous air pollutant, or ozone depleting substance. That's a lot of chemical avoidance from just one paint standard! In addition to being GS-11 certified, paints with this color ranking have less than 10g/L of VOC content ("super compliant" per SCAQMD), and low VOC emissions.
You have selected one of the best paints on the market today. Make sure this product is copied in your specifications!
Quick Tips:
- This product avoids APEs (alkylphenol ethoxylates)
- APEs are hazardous endocrine disruptors
- This product avoids preservatives that emit formaldehyde
- This product avoids chemicals considered carcinogens, mutagens, reproductive toxicants, air pollutants, or ozone depleting substances
- Avoid paints containing PFAS (perfluorinated alkyl substances)
- PFAS are also known as "forever chemicals" because they last for long periods of time in the environment and once they are in our buildings and environments, they are hard to get rid of
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that by choosing a paint with low VOC content you can avoid hundreds of grams of VOCs per liter? That adds up quickly to over a hundred pounds of VOC per one hundred gallons of paint! Keep in mind that the SCAQMD Rule allows up to 100 grams per liter of VOCs in primers, so just like multiple coats of paint can increase the overall project’s VOCs, the use of a higher VOC primer can as well.
Choosing a paint with low VOC content is a step in the right direction.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use a paint free of APEs (alkylphenol ethoxylates)
- APEs are hazardous endocrine disruptors
- Avoid paints containing PFAS (perfluorinated alkyl substances)
- PFAS are also known as "forever chemicals" because they last for long periods of time in the environment and once they are in our buildings and environments, they are hard to get rid of
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that all water-based latex paints have antimicrobials added to preserve the paint in the can and some have antimicrobials to keep mold and mildew on the dried, painted surface at bay? But, paints marketed as antimicrobial may be adding more hazardous antimicrobial chemicals without any additional benefit to human health. There is currently no evidence that the use of antimicrobial building products results in any health benefit to those living alongside them. Such products can be more expensive than their conventional counterparts and can introduce pesticides into a building’s interior with no apparent benefit.
If a paint is advertised as "antimicrobial" or "microbicidal" or similar and claims to keep you healthy, don't buy it (the product or the misleading messaging)!
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to avoid products marketed as antimicrobial or microbicidal
- Use a product ranked yellow or above, that meets at least the low VOC content requirements of SCAQMD Rule 1113
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that recycled paints are made by blending acrylic latex paints recovered though household hazardous waste collection programs? They are then mixed with virgin ingredients and other materials. VOC content can be high, and testing for heavy metals such as lead (which have multiple hazards) does not appear to be a standard practice.
Avoid recycled paint generally as testing for toxic chemicals is not standard practice and there can be legacy chemicals of concern in these products.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid recycled paints as they can introduce legacy chemicals of concern
- Revise your project to use a product ranked yellow or above that meets at least the low VOC content requirements of SCAQMD Rule 1113
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that specialty paints can introduce chemicals of concern even if they are advertised as Low VOC? Dry-Erase paints can contain isocyanates (a potent asthmagen), as well as harsh solvents and persistent bioaccumulative toxicant (PBT) catalysts. Magnetic paint can contain harsh solvents as well.
This is not a preferred product. If your project requires a specialty effect on the walls, consider a solution that does not involve paint. For example, hanging a sheet of stainless steel on a wall will provide a magnetic surface that can be painted over in any color. And if you want occupants to write on a wall, we recommend installing an actual slate chalkboard.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid specialty paints and consider alternative options to apply effects on walls
- Dry-erase paints can contain asthmagenic isocyanates and harmful PBTs (persistant bioaccumulative toxicant) catalysts
- Dry-erase and magnetic paints can contain harsh solvents
- Revise your project to use a product ranked yellow or above that meets at least the low VOC content requirements of SCAQMD Rule 1113.
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration) Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Hmm. This doesn't look like the best choice.
Our research on special coatings is not yet complete. You can help by asking manufacturers to register their products using the HPDC's (Health Product Declaration Collaborative) Open Standard.
Site-applied specialty coatings can expose workers and occupants to chemicals of concern. Limit the use of site-applied coatings whenever possible.
Quick Tips:
- Use our existing guidance on specialty paints while we complete our research
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that by avoiding white-board paint in favor of a factory applied coated surface like a white-board or a chalkboard, you avoid the use of potent asthmagens called isocyanates, harsh solvents, and hazardous catalysts on-site?
If your project requires a writing surface, consider a solution that does not involve paint. For example, purchase a dry-erase board or, even better, install an actual slate chalkboard.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid dry-erase coatings and consider alternative options that do not require paint
- Dry-erase paints can contain asthmagenic isocyanates and harmful PBT (persistent bioaccumulative toxicant) catalysts
- Dry-erase and magnetic paints can contain harsh solvents
- Ask your manufacturer to disclose your product's content using Health Product Declarations (HPDs)
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Did you know that some composite wood materials require much more binder (and emit more formaldehyde) than others? You can reduce the amount of binder in your cabinetry and help protect building occupants. By reducing the amount of hazardous chemicals used in the manufacturing process you can help protect communities near manufacturing sites.
When it comes to casework, we've outlined a few things you should know regarding wood substrates.
Quick Tips:
- Binders in composite wood are often formaldehyde-based
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Use No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) composite woods when possible
- Plywood has the least amount of binder of composite woods, 3.5% by weight
- MDF is 10% binder by weight and particleboard is 12% binder by weight
- Use solid wood components when available
- Use cabinets made with a hardwood plywood box
- Opt for hardwood plywood shelving instead of particleboard
- Use solid wood veneer facings over laminate
- Use solid wood veneer over thermofoil
- Specify casework that is pre-finished to avoid painting or staining on-site
Congrats! You're in the green!
By choosing solid wood components, you can reduce the amount of binder in your cabinetry and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in the manufacturing process which can help protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Solid wood components are a great choice from a health perspective and can have additional benefits.
Quick Tips:
- Solid wood components reduces the amount of binder
- Binders are often formaldehyde-based
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Solid wood cabinet doors may have a higher up-front cost, bit they are more durable than composites
Did you know that wood veneer faced cabinets are preferable to plastic laminate clad cabinets because laminates are made with resins that can emit formaldehyde over time? Some cabinets may offer polyvinyl chloride (PVC) edge-banding to treat unfinished edges as well. Be aware that PVC edge-banding is a Chlorinated plastic, and is NEVER a healthy material, especially in its manufacturing and disposal.
Quick Tips:
- Wood veneer faced cabinets are preferable to plastic laminate clad cabinets
- Use solid wood where possible, such as door and drawer fronts
- If you are using composite wood for any part of the construction use plywood
- Use No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) composite wood
- Specify casework arrive pre-finished to avoid painting or staining on-site
- Avoid thermofoil finishes, which are vinyl (PVC)
- Avoid PVC edge-banding
Did you know that HDF uses more binder than plywood? More binder means more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Use solid wood components when possible, such as for door and drawer fronts
- Avoid HDF
- Plywood is preferred over HDF
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that MDF is 10% binder by weight? That's far more than plywood which is 3.5% by weight. More binders mean more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Binders in composite wood are often formaldehyde-based
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- MDF is 10% binder by weight
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Use solid wood components when possible for door and drawer fronts
- Plywood is preferred option over MDF
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 12 32 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Back to 12 32 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Back to 12 32 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Back to 12 32 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Back to 12 32 13.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Did you know that particleboard uses more binder than any other composite wood - 12% binder by weight? More binder means more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Particleboard uses more binder than any other composite wood - 12% binder by weight
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Plywood is preferred over particleboard
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that plywood uses less binder (and emits less formaldehyde) than other composite wood material? Plywood is a great choice for components or substrates used in constructing cabinets. By using plywood over other composite wood you can reduce chemical impacts for building occupants, workers at manufacturing facilities, and fenceline communities.
Quick Tips:
- Plywood uses less binder (and emits less formaldehyde) than other composite wood material
- Plywood is 3.5% binder by weight
- MDF is 10% binder by weight
- Particleboard is 12% binder by weight
- Use plywood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that plastic laminates are made with resins that can emit formaldehyde over time? Casework often requires edge-banding to treat unfinished edges and is typically made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) . Be aware that PVC edge-banding is a Chlorinated plastic, and is NEVER a healthy material, especially in its manufacturing and disposal.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your design to use wood veneer faced cabinets
- Use solid wood where possible, such as door and drawer fronts
- If you are using composite wood for any part of the construction use plywood
- Use No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) composite wood
- Specify casework arrive pre-finished to avoid painting or staining on-site
- Avoid thermofoil finishes, which are vinyl (PVC)
- Avoid PVC edge-banding
Did you know that HDF uses more binder than plywood? More binder means more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Use solid wood components when possible, such as for door and drawer fronts
- Avoid HDF
- Plywood is preferred over HDF
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 12 32 16 Manufactured Plastic-Laminate-Clad Casework
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that MDF is 10% binder by weight? That's far more than plywood which is 3.5% by weight. More binders mean more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Binders in composite wood are often formaldehyde-based
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- MDF is 10% binder by weight
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Use solid wood components when possible for door and drawer fronts
- Plywood is preferred option over MDF
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 12 32 16 Manufactured Plastic-Laminate-Clad Casework
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 12 32 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Back to 12 32 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Back to 12 32 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Back to 12 32 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Back to 12 32 16.xx Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Substrate
Did you know that particleboard uses more binder than any other composite wood - 12% binder by weight? More binders meand more formaldehyde. Reducing binders helps protect building occupants from emissions and reduces the amount of hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing which helps protect communities near manufacturing sites.
Quick Tips:
- Particleboard uses more binder than any other composite wood - 12% binder by weight
- Revise your project to use plywood or solid wood
- Plywood is preferred over particleboard
- Use composite wood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 12 32 16 Manufactured Plastic-Laminate-Clad Casework
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Did you know that plywood uses less binder (and emits less formaldehyde) than other composite wood material? Plywood is a great choice for components or substrates used in constructing cabinets. By using plywood over other composite wood you can reduce chemical impacts for building occupants, workers at manufacturing facilities, and fenceline communities.
Quick Tips:
- Plywood uses less binder (and emits less formaldehyde) than other composite wood material
- Plywood is 3.5% binder by weight
- MDF is 10% binder by weight
- Particleboard is 12% binder by weight
- Use plywood that confirms No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Back to 12 32 16 Manufactured Plastic-Laminate-Clad Casework
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods have different formaldehyde emission limits? California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase II / TSCA Title VI regulations sets different limits; plywood products having the strictest formaldehyde emission limit of the standard. The limits are: 0.05 ppm for hardwood plywood, 0.09 ppm for particleboard, 0.11 ppm for MDF, and 0.13 ppm for thin MDF.
Quick Tips:
- No need to memorize CARB limits, just prefer plywood when possible
- Plywood products meet the strictest formaldehyde emission limit
- Plywood uses less binder which keeps formaldehyde emissions low
- Use composite wood with No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) or Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) binders
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) binders are typically soy- or isocyanate-based? Soy-based binders come from soy flour and petrochemicals and use some hazardous chemicals in their lifecycle. So, while these impacts can't be ignored, NAF binders help avoid the use of resins based on formaldehyde - a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time and have impacts on fenceline communities during manufacturing.
When it comes to composite wood, NAF binders are worth preferring.
Quick Tips:
- NAF stands for No Added Formaldehyde
- NAF composite wood with this designation means binders do not contain formaldehyde
- NAF binders aren't perfect, but they help avoid the use of formaldehyde-based resins
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Formaldehyde use impacts fenceline communities during manufacturing
- NAF binder are typically soy- or isocyanate-based
- Isocyanate-based binders can be hazardous to workers; isocyanates have been identified as a leading cause of work-related asthma
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that composite woods labeled No Added Urea Formaldehyde (NAUF) can still contain phenol formaldehyde (PF)? While PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than Urea Formaldehyde (UF), they are not free of those emissions.
Quick Tips:
- NAUF stands for No Added Urea Formaldehyde
- A NAUF composite wood can still contain formaldehyde compounds
- PF binders generally emit formaldehyde at lower rates than UF, but still emit
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can emit into buildings over time
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that in addition to containing small amounts of unreacted formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde resins can degrade over time generating and emitting even more formaldehyde?
Quick Tips:
- Standard urea formaldehyde resins should no longer be used
- Hardwood plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and particleboard must meet national requirements limiting formaldehyde emissions according to TSCA Title VI
- Urea formaldehyde degrades and can release formaldehyde into interior spaces long after installation
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your project to use a yellow ranked composite wood or a solid wood component
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Do you know what a scavenger additive is? These are chemicals that react with formaldehyde, released over time from urea formaldehyde resins, to lower emissions. This means urea formaldehyde can still be in the product, but it passes regulation. It is worth understanding that the effectiveness of these scavenger additives may be diminished by hot temperatures or high humidity.
Quick Tips:
- ULEF stands for Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde
- ULEF requires demonstrating emission levels are consistently well below legal limits
- Products that meet ULEF requirements may use urea formaldehyde binders (UF) with scavenger additives
- Products with UF binders may release formaldehyde above limits in hot and/or humid spaces
- Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and asthmagen
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
When it comes to countertops, you have a wide array of product options to chose from. Each type of product has associated health impacts, so be sure to navigate carefully. Our product guidance will help you choose a preferable product from a health perspective.
Did you know that concrete countertops typically require the use of sealers which commonly contain per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals"?
Our team has not specifically investigated concrete countertops from a material health perspective but we have general tips for you.
Quick Tips:
- Concrete countertops typically require sealing
- Sealants often contain per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals"
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent (do not readily break down) and can bioaccumulate in the environment
- PFAS have been measured in human and wildlife tissue all over the world
- Revise your design to use a different product that does not require the use of sealers
- Consider porcelain slab countertops for a similar look that does not require sealers
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that plastic laminate , "P-Lam" products commonly contain binders that can release formaldehyde (a carcinogen) into interior spaces over time?
Quick Tips:
- Plastic laminate "P-Lam" countertops are typically not a preferred choice
- P-Lam products commonly contain binders that can release formaldehyde, a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
- Consider natural stone, porcelain slabs, ceramic tiles, or quartz as potentially better options
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that plastic laminate , "P-Lam" products commonly contain binders that can release formaldehyde (a carcinogen) into interior spaces over time?
Quick Tips:
- Plastic laminate "P-Lam" countertops are typically not a preferred choice
- P-Lam products commonly contain binders that can release formaldehyde, a carcinogen and asthmagen
- Revise your design to use a yellow or green ranked product
- Consider natural stone, porcelain slabs, ceramic tiles, or quartz as potentially better options
- If P-Lam products must be used, use those made with NAF (no added formaldehyde) or ULEF (ultra low emitting formaldehyde) substrates
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that natural stone products typically have sealers applied to them that commonly contain per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals"?
Even if you choose a stone that doesn't require sealing, if you can't ensure avoidance of sealers at all stages of the stone's life, consider using porcelain slab or quartz instead.
Quick Tips:
- Natural stone products typically use hazardous sealers, which are hard to avoid in practice
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent (do not readily break down) and can bioaccumulate in the environment
- PFAS have been measured in human and wildlife tissue all over the world
- There are stones that don't require sealers
- If you can find stone that doesn't require a sealer and isn't sealed at any point - not during manufacture, at installation, or over the life of the countertop - this would be a preferred option
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that stone sealers commonly contain per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals"? Did you know that PFAS are found in the blood of people and animals all over the world?
Quick Tips:
- Natural stone sealers typically contain PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals"
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent (do not readily break down) and can bioaccumulate in the environment
- PFAS have been measured in human and wildlife tissue all over the world
- There are stones that don't require sealers
- If you can find stone that doesn't require a sealer and isn't sealed at any point - not during manufacture, at installation, or over the life of the countertop - this would be a preferred option.
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that by not using a sealer you help avoid per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals"? PFAS are a high priority to avoid so using a stone that doesn't require a sealer is a great start.
Quick Tips:
- Natural stone countertops that do not require sealing present few health hazards
- Natural stone that is denser and/or less porous, such as soapstone and certain kinds of granite, may not require sealing
- Work with suppliers to ensure products do not require sealing and that they have not been factory-sealed
- Sealing may take place at various points in the life of the product including manufacture, installation, and use so you will need to be dilligent
- Ensure your stone products remain unsealed (and therefore a healthy material option) throughout their lifecycle
Laboratory countertops is a catchall term for countertops intended specifically for laboratory applications. They are often resin, metal or other chemically-impervious materials.
If this a product you use often, let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that these non-porous surfaces are typically stain-resistant and do not require sealers that can introduce chemicals of concern into our buildings? But, some simulated stone countertops contain large quantities of plastic.
Quick Tips:
- Some simulated stone surfaces can be a good countertop option. But be informed; some product types contain large quantities of plastic
- Plastic has significant hazardous chemical impacts on communities and the environment especially near extraction, processing, product manufacture, and disposal sites
- When it comes to simulated stone, quartz is a preferrable choice
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that cultured marble countertops are not marble at all, but are actually made of plastic, fillers, and pigments? About 20% is plastic which comes from oil or natural gas.
Quick Tips:
- Cultured marble countertops are made with large quantities of plastic
- Creating plastic has significant impacts on surrounding communities and the environment especially near extraction, processing, product manufacture, and disposal sites
- Cultured marble might be stain-resistant and doesn't require hazardous sealers, but we still recommend revising your design to use a product ranked yellow or green
- Use natural stone, porcelain slabs, ceramic tiles, or quartz as potentially better options
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that solid surface countertops are 40% plastic, which comes from oil and natural gas?
Quick Tips:
- Solid surface countertops are made with large quantities of plastic
- Creating plastic has significant impacts on surrounding communities and the environment especially near extraction, processing, product manufacture, and disposal sites
- Solid surface might be stain-resistant and doesn't require hazardous sealers, but we still recommend revising your design to use a product ranked yellow or green
- Use natural stone, porcelain slabs, ceramic tiles, or quartz as potentially better options.
Nice! You're in the yellow!
Did you know that quartz agglomerate is about 10% plastic? This is much less plastic than cultured marble or solid surface countertops.
Quick Tips:
- Quartz agglomerate is a preferred countertop material but isn't perfect; it still contains around 10% plastic
- Creating plastic has significant impacts on surrounding communities and the environment especially near extraction, processing, product manufacture, and disposal sites
- Quartz agglomerate is stain-resistant without the use of hazardous sealers; to further reduce impacts, use porcelain slab or unsealed natural stone
Is this a product you use often? Let us know and we will dive into the research.
Quick Tips:
- Advocate to the manufacturer to register their product using the HPDC's Open Standard
- Use Informed to find a product that is ranked yellow or green
Did you know that some pipe materials leach a wider array of hazardous chemicals into drinking water than others? Even if not used for potable water, manufacturing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) requires more hazardous chemicals than other plastics and exposes workers and nearby communities to these chemicals.
Pipes that distribute water within a building present an opportunity for healthier materials if you follow the tips below.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes, especially PVC and CPVC
- PVC and CPVC production uses mercury, asbestos and/or per- or polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS)
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that are highly persistent, do not readily break down, and can bioaccumulate in the environment
- Join pipes using mechanical fittings
- Avoid joining pipes with solvent cements, solders, fluxes, or other filler metals
- Solvent cements and copper solders expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
Did you know that "lead free" doesn't mean free of lead? In the U.S. plumbing fixtures and fittings can contain up to 0.25% lead by weight and still be labeled "lead free." Solders and fluxes can contain up to 0.2% lead by weight and be labeled “lead free.” While these numbers may seem small, there is no safe exposure level for lead.
Chemicals that make up the materials for pipes can find their way into drinking water through leaching or by breaking down. Copper leaches fewer chemicals than plastic pipes. If the water supply in your building has a pH less than 6.5, (such as well water) consult a plumbing expert about treatment options to prevent corrosion of copper piping. If plastic pipes are necessary, use Polypropylene (PP), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), or Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) pipes over Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC).
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes, especially PVC and CPVC when possible
- Use plastic pipes only when necessary; if water pH is less than 6.5
- PVC and CPVC production uses mercury, asbestos and/or per- or polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS)
- PFAS are a large class of chemicals that persist in the environment. Many have been found to be toxic and to build up in body tissue.
- Join pipes using mechanical fittings
- Avoid joining pipes with solvent cements, solders, fluxes, or other filler metals
- Solvent cements and copper solders expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Solder labeled "lead-free" does not mean it is free of lead
- There is no safe exposure level for lead
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that 100 percent of the PVC supply chain depends upon at least one form of toxic technology? This includes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), used in chlorine production. PFAS, are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment. Many have been found to be toxic and to build up in body tissue.
Similar to other plastic pipes, CPVC pipes are known to leach chemicals into drinking water.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes, especially CPVC and PVC when possible
- CPVC and PVC pipes have more hazardous chemicals added to them than other types of plastic pipes
- Avoid solvent cements; these contain high levels of hazardous chemicals
- Solvent cements expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that "lead free" doesn't mean free of lead? In the U.S. plumbing fixtures and fittings can contain up to 0.25% lead by weight and still be labeled "lead free". Solders and fluxes can contain up to 0.2% lead by weight and be labeled “lead free”. While these numbers may seem small, there is no safe exposure level for lead.
While copper pipes themselves contain the fewest hazardous chemicals, the solders, fluxes, and other filler metals often contain lead. Make a drastic shift by joining the copper pipes with a better method such as press fittings.
Quick Tips:
- Solder labeled "lead-free" does not mean free of lead
- There is no safe exposure level for lead
- Join pipes using press fittings
- Avoid joining pipes with solvent cements, solders, fluxes, or other filler metals
- Solvent cements and copper solders expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- When the drinking water supply is acidic (pH <6.5) consult a plumbing expert about treatment options to prevent corrosion of copper piping. Avoid copper piping if necessary
- Corroded pipes release copper ions into drinking water, which can harm the liver and kidneys
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that under typical conditions copper pipes joined without solder, flux, or other filler materials contain the fewest hazards compared to other pipes?
Quick Tips:
- When the drinking water supply is acidic (pH <6.5) consult a plumbing expert about treatment options to prevent corrosion of copper piping. Avoid copper piping if necessary
- Acidic conditions can cause copper pipes to corrode
- Corroded pipes release copper ions into drinking water, which can harm the liver and kidneys
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that Polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) pipes can be used for many of the same applications and use the same fittings as PEX pipes? Did you know that PE-RT can be thermally fused and is recylable?
Quick Tips:
- PEX pipes are preferred over PVC and CPVC pipes
- Avoid PVC and CPVC pipes
- PE-RT pipes are preferred over PEX pipes
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While this choice puts you in the yellow, it is important to note that leaching studies, where new HDPE pipes were used, did identify some hazardous chemicals in the water. It's unclear how long leaching persists. The world needs a better option than plastic pipes.
Quick Tips:
- HDPE pipes have fewer chemicals of concern added to them than PVC and CPVC pipes
- HDPE pipes may leach fewer chemicals than PEX pipes
- Revise your design to use copper pipes that avoid solder, flux, or other filler metals
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While this choice puts you in the yellow, it is important to note that leaching studies, where new PE-RT pipes were used, did identify some hazardous chemicals in the water. It's unclear how long leaching persists. The world needs a better option than plastic pipes.
Quick Tips:
- PE-RT pipes have fewer chemicals of concern added to them than PVC and CPVC pipes
- PE-RT pipes may leach fewer chemicals than PEX pipes
- Revise your design to use copper pipes that avoid solder, flux, or other filler metals
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While this choice puts you in the yellow, it is important to note that leaching studies, where new polypropylene pipes were used, did identify some hazardous chemicals in the water. It's unclear how long leaching persists. The world needs a better option than plastic pipes.
Quick Tips:
- Polypropylene pipes have fewer chemicals of concern added to them than PVC and CPVC pipes
- Polypropylene may leach fewer chemicals than PEX pipes
- Revise your design to use copper pipes that avoid solder, flux, or other filler metals
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that 100 percent of the PVC supply chain depends upon at least one form of toxic technology? This includes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), used in chlorine production. PFAS, are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment. Many have been found to be toxic and to build up in body tissue.
Similar to other plastic pipes, PVC pipes are known to leach chemicals into drinking water.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes, especially PVC and CPVC when possible
- PVC and CPVC pipes have more hazardous chemicals added to them than other types of plastic pipes
- Avoid solvent cements; these contain high levels of hazardous chemicals
- Solvent cements expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Did you know that "lead free" doesn't mean free of lead? In the U.S. plumbing fixtures and fittings can contain up to 0.25% lead by weight and still be labeled "lead free". Solders and fluxes can contain up to 0.2% lead by weight and be labeled “lead free”. While these numbers may seem small, there is no safe exposure level for lead.
Chemicals that make up the materials for pipes can find their way into drinking water through leaching or by breaking down. Copper leaches fewer chemicals than plastic pipes. If the water supply in your building has a pH less than 6.5, (such as well water) consult a plumbing expert about treatment options to prevent corrosion of copper piping. If plastic pipes are necessary, use Polypropylene (PP), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), or Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) pipes over Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC).
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes, especially PVC and CPVC when possible
- If water pH is less than 6.5 consult a plumbing expert about treatment options that prevent corrosion of copper pipes; use plastic pipes only when necessary.
- PVC and CPVC production uses mercury, asbestos and/or per- or polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS)
- Join pipes using mechanical fittings
- Avoid joining pipes with solvent cements, solders, fluxes, or other filler metals
- Solvent cements and copper solders expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Solder labeled "lead-free" does not mean free of lead
- There is no safe exposure level for lead
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that 100 percent of the PVC supply chain depends upon at least one form of toxic technology? This includes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), used in chlorine production. PFAS, are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment. Many have been found to be toxic and to build up in body tissue.
Similar to other plastic pipes, CPVC pipes are known to leach chemicals into drinking water.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes, especially CPVC and PVC when possible
- CPVC and PVC pipes have more hazardous chemicals added to them than other types of plastic pipes
- Avoid solvent cements; these contain high levels of hazardous chemicals
- Solvent cements expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that "lead free" doesn't mean free of lead? In the U.S. plumbing fixtures and fittings can contain up to 0.25% lead by weight and still be labeled "lead free". Solders and fluxes can contain up to 0.2% lead by weight and be labeled “lead free”. While these numbers may seem small, there is no safe exposure level for lead.
While copper pipes themselves contain the fewest hazardous chemicals, the solders, fluxes, and other filler metals often contain lead. Make a drastic shift by joining the copper pipes with a better method such as press fittings.
Quick Tips:
- Solder labeled "lead-free" does not mean free of lead
- There is no safe exposure level for lead
- Join pipes using press fittings
- Avoid joining pipes with solvent cements, solders, fluxes, or other filler metals
- Copper solders expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- When the drinking water supply is acidic (pH <6.5) consult a plumbing expert about treatment options to prevent corrosion of copper piping. Avoid copper piping if necessary
- Corroded pipes release copper ions into drinking water, which can harm the liver and kidneys
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that under typical conditions copper pipes joined without solder, flux, or other filler materials contain the fewest hazards compared to other pipes?
Quick Tips:
- When the drinking water supply is acidic (pH <6.5) consult a plumbing expert about treatment options to prevent corrosion of copper piping. Avoid copper piping if necessary
- Acidic conditions can cause copper pipes to corrode
- Corroded pipes release copper ions into drinking water, which can harm the liver and kidneys
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that Polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) pipes can be used for many of the same applications and use the same fittings as PEX pipes? Unlike PEX pipes, PE-RT pipes are recylable.
Quick Tips:
- PEX pipes have fewer chemicals of concern added to them than to PVC and CPVC pipes
- Use PE-RT pipes as an alternative to PEX
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While this choice puts you in the yellow, it is important to note that leaching studies, where new HDPE pipes were used, did identify some hazardous chemicals in the water. It's unclear how long leaching persists. The world needs a better option than plastic pipes.
Quick Tips:
- HDPE pipes have fewer chemicals of concern added to them than PVC and CPVC pipes
- HDPE may leach fewer chemicals than PEX pipes
- Revise your design to use copper pipes that avoid solder, flux, or other filler metals
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While this choice puts you in the yellow, it is important to note that leaching studies, where new PE-RT pipes were used, did identify some hazardous chemicals in the water. It's unclear how long leaching persists. The world needs a better option than plastic pipes.
Quick Tips:
- PE-RT pipes have fewer chemicals of concern added to them than PVC and CPVC pipes
- PE-RT pipes may leach fewer chemicals than PEX pipes
- Revise your design to use copper pipes that avoid solder, flux, or other filler metals
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While this choice puts you in the yellow, it is important to note that leaching studies, where new polypropylene pipes were used, did identify some hazardous chemicals in the water. It's unclear how long leaching persists. The world needs a better option than plastic pipes.
Quick Tips:
- Polypropylene pipes have fewer chemicals of concern added to them than PVC and CPVC pipes
- Polypropylene may leach fewer chemicals than PEX pipes
- Revise your design to use copper pipes that avoid solder, flux, or other filler metals
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that 100 percent of the PVC supply chain depends upon at least one form of toxic technology? This includes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), used in chlorine production. PFAS, are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment. Many have been found to be toxic and to build up in body tissue.
Similar to other plastic pipes, PVC pipes are known to leach chemicals into drinking water.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes, especially PVC and CPVC when possible
- PVC and CPVC pipes contain more hazardous chemicals than other types of plastic pipes
- Avoid solvent cements; these contain high levels of hazardous chemicals
- Solvent cements expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Did you know that manufacturing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) requires more hazardous chemicals than other plastics and exposes workers and nearby communities to these chemicals?
Even though pipes disributing grey water don't carry potable water, we still recommend avoiding plastic pipes because plastic manufacturing impacts the health and safety of communities near manufacturing facilities.
Quick tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes especially PVC and CPVC
- Plastic manufacturing impacts the health and safety of nearby communities
- Use joining methods that do not require solvents, solders, fluxes, or other filler metals
- Solvent cements contain high levels of hazardous chemicals
- Solvent cements and copper solders expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Solder labeled "lead-free" does not mean free of lead
- There is no safe exposure level for lead
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that 100 percent of the PVC supply chain depends upon at least one form of toxic technology? This includes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), used in chlorine production. PFAS, are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment. Many have been found to be toxic and to build up in body tissue.
Similar to other plastic pipes, CPVC pipes are known to leach chemicals into drinking water.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes, especially PVC and CPVC when possible
- CPVC and PVC pipes are manufactured using more hazardous chemicals than other types of plastic pipes
- Avoid solvent cements; these contain high levels of hazardous chemicals
- Solvent cements expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that "lead free" doesn't mean free of lead? In the U.S. plumbing fixtures and fittings can contain up to 0.25% lead by weight and still be labeled "lead free". Solders and fluxes can contain up to 0.2% lead by weight and be labeled “lead free”. While these numbers may seem small, there is no safe exposure level for lead.
While copper pipes themselves contain the fewest hazardous chemicals, the solders, fluxes, and other filler metals often contain lead. Make a drastic shift by joining the copper pipes with a better method such as press fittings.
Quick Tips:
- Solder labeled "lead-free" does not mean free of lead
- There is no safe exposure level for lead
- Join pipes using press fittings
- Avoid joining pipes with solders, fluxes, or other filler metals
- Solders expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Acidic conditions can cause copper pipes to corrode
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Congrats! You're in the green!
Did you know that under typical conditions copper pipes joined without solder, flux, or other filler materials contain the fewest hazards compared to other pipes?
Quick Tips:
- While copper pipes contain the fewest hazardous chemicals be aware that acidic conditions (pH <6.5) can cause copper pipes to corrode
Chances are you can do better!
Did you know that Polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) pipes can be used for many of the same applications and use the same fittings as PEX pipes? Unlike PEX pipes, PE-RT pipes are recylable.
Quick Tips:
- PEX pipes are manufactured using fewer hazardous chemicalsa than PVC and CPVC pipes
- Use PE-RT pipes as an alternative to PEX
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While this choice puts you in the yellow, there are limited end of life options for HDPE pipes. The world needs a better option than plastic pipes.
Quick Tips:
- HDPE pipes are manufactured using fewer chemicals of concern than PVC and CPVC pipes
- Revise your design to use copper pipes that avoid solder, flux, or other filler metals
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While this choice puts you in the yellow, there are limited end of life options for PE-RT pipes. The world needs a better option than plastic pipes.
Quick Tips:
- PE-RT pipes are manufactured using fewer chemicals of concern than PVC and CPVC pipes
- Revise your design to use copper pipes that avoid solder, flux, or other filler metals
Nice! You're in the yellow!
While this choice puts you in the yellow, there are limited end of life options for polypropylene pipes. The world needs a better option than plastic pipes.
Quick Tips:
- Polypropylene pipes are manufactured using fewer chemicals of concern than PVC and CPVC pipes
- Revise your design to use copper pipes that avoid solder, flux, or other filler metals
Wait! You're in the red!
Did you know that 100 percent of the PVC supply chain depends upon at least one form of toxic technology? This includes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), used in chlorine production. PFAS, are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment. Many have been found to be toxic and to build up in body tissue.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid plastic pipes, especially PVC and CPVC when possible
- PVC and CPVC pipes are manufactured using more hazardous chemicals than other types of plastic pipes
- Avoid solvent cements; these contain high levels of hazardous chemicals
- Solvent cements expose installation teams to hazardous chemicals
- Revise your design to use products ranked yellow or green
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Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
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Back to 22 12 23 Facility Indoor Potable-Water Storage Tanks
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Back to 22 12 23 Facility Indoor Potable-Water Storage Tanks
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Back to 22 12 23 Facility Indoor Potable-Water Storage Tanks
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Back to 22 12 23 Facility Indoor Potable-Water Storage Tanks
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
Is this a type of product that you commonly use and would like included in our guidance? If so, let us know and we’ll consider it for future research.
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Back to 22 15 19 General Service Packaged Air Compressors and Receivers
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