Indoor air quality has become an increasing concern for consumers, architects and designers due to growing awareness of the impact of indoor spaces on overall health and well-being. While factors such as ventilation and natural light are often considered when creating healthier living environments, one element is frequently overlooked: flooring.

Present throughout the home, flooring plays a vital role in indoor environments. Choosing low-emission, responsibly sourced materials can contribute to spaces that are more comfortable, balanced and aligned with the expectations of those seeking healthier homes.

How does flooring affect Indoor Air Quality?

Flooring can have a significant impact on the air you breathe indoors through the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Certain flooring materials, as well as the adhesives, finishes, or coatings used during installation, may release VOCs into the air over time. These emissions can contribute to indoor air pollution and affect occupant comfort, increasing the risk of respiratory irritation, allergies, and conditions such as asthma. That is why choosing low-emission flooring solutions is crucial to creating healthier indoor environments, particularly in homes, schools, healthcare facilities, and workplaces.

Why is Wicanders different?

Wicanders reinforces its commitment to healthier indoor environments through a portfolio of cork flooring solutions that are entirely PVC-free. Flooring products made with PVC may contain plasticisers, stabilisers, and other synthetic additives which, depending on the formulation, can contribute to VOC emissions over time. By combining the natural benefits of cork with a PVC-free formulation, Wicanders helps create healthier indoor environments without compromising on performance or design.

This commitment is further supported by independent certifications that verify the low VOC emissions and environmental credentials of Wicanders flooring. These include Blue Angel (DE UZ 176), French VOC Label A+, Finnish M1, Nordic Swan Ecolabel, GREENGUARD, Declare, and Health Product Declaration (HPD), all of which demonstrate compliance with some of the world's most demanding standards for indoor air quality and environmental performance.

These independent certifications provide consumers and professionals with the confidence that Wicanders flooring not only delivers outstanding comfort and design, but also meets rigorous standards for indoor air quality. As healthier homes become an increasing priority, choosing flooring with proven low VOC emissions is a simple yet important step towards creating spaces that are better for everyday living.