In part 2 of our Environmental hazard series, we take a look at a fairly uncommon issue: Urea Formaldehyde. Urea formaldehyde, may be found in the
adhesives used in pressed wood building materials, which are used in
furniture, kitchen cabinets, and paneling.
This formaldehyde was also used in foam insulation until it was discovered
that the formaldehyde gas released from the foam could cause illnesses
such as cancer, breathing problems, and skin rashes.
Urea formaldehyde foam insulation is uncommon in homes around the Puget Sound.
If a home does contain urea formaldehyde foam insulation, the levels of formaldehyde gas can be tested by the health department.
The insulation can be removed and replaced if the gas levels are dangerous.
Note that urea formaldehyde, both in foam insulation and in adhesives,
emits dangerous gas for only a few years.Older urea formaldehyde
materials are not considered to be dangerous.
Steps to Reduce Exposure for the Homeowner:
- Use "exterior-grade" pressed wood products (lower-emitting because they contain phenol resins, not urea resins).
- Use air conditioning and dehumidifiers to maintain moderate temperature and reduce humidity levels.
- Increase ventilation, particularly after bringing new sources of formaldehyde into the home.
Ask about the formaldehyde content of pressed wood products, including building materials, cabinetry, and furniture before you purchase them.
Some studies suggest that coating pressed wood products with polyurethane may reduce formaldehyde emissions for some period of time. To be effective, any such coating must cover all surfaces and edges and remain intact. Increase the ventilation and carefully follow the manufacturer instructions while applying these coatings. (If you are sensitive to formaldehyde, check the label contents before purchasing coating products to avoid buying products that contain formaldehyde, as they will emit the chemical for a short time after application.)
Maintain moderate temperature and humidity levels
and provide adequate ventilation.
The rate at which formaldehyde is released is
accelerated by heat and may also depend somewhat on the humidity level.
Therefore, the use of dehumidifiers and air conditioning to control humidity
and to maintain a moderate temperature can help reduce formaldehyde emissions.
(Drain and clean dehumidifier collection trays frequently so that they do not
become a breeding ground for microorganisms.) Increasing the rate of
ventilation in your home will also help in reducing formaldehyde levels.
Real Estate Consumer Issues (pt. 1 asbestos)
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