top of page
Finishes

Key points: Avoid PVC, which is found in vinyl floors and used for carpet-backing. Don't forget that even ceiling connections cannot be made of the forbidden PVC. Choose VOC free paints (or at least 50g/L or less VOC content), an option that is increasingly economical. For floors in general, choose those that comply with CDPH Standard Method v1.1 or have a GreenGuard Gold certification. Drywall imported from China should be avoided as well as any paper-faced wallboard where moisture is a concern. As far as material ingredients for drywall, however, there are plenty of unknowns and some known hazards like traces of heavy metals, including mercury. Unfortunately, good alternatives do not exist, so in some cases not having a finish may be better than a mold-prone or heavy metal inclusive wallboard.

bottom of page