Formaldehyde Testing

Formaldehyde is a chemical that has been added to some wood products to extend the strength of the wood.
It is also a chemical that the EPA has banned for use in this country. This gas can cause numerous health problems, including watery eyes, skin irritation, burning in the throat and nose, headaches, and even some types of cancer. Unfortunately, there are companies, mostly far eastern companies that do not have the same health standard as we have in the United States. Many of the laminate floor products that are on the market have formaldehyde in them. The box will not tell you if it has formaldehyde or not. If you are buying laminate for your home, research where it’s manufactured at. If made in the USA or most European countries it will not have formaldehyde in the
product. Some of the newer laminates from the far east have changed but you need to do research
and ask questions. The guys at Home Depot or Lowes will probably not know the answer. I have had
people buy brand-new homes that they could not live in due to the laminate flooring installed. If you
have a contractor installing your floors please ensure that they are using non-formaldehyde flooring.