When and why to VOC test.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can significantly impact our indoor air quality and health. Understanding when and why to conduct VOC testing is crucial for maintaining a safe living or working environment. Two of the main triggers for VOC testing is new construction and home renovations. During these projects, fresh paint, new flooring, cabinetry, and adhesives can release high levels of VOCs. These compounds can off-gas for months to years, potentially causing short term and long term health issues.

Unexplained health issues can be another indication for VOC testing. If residents experience persistent headaches, respiratory irritation, unexplained fatigue, allergic reactions, or neurological symptoms, it may be a sign of poor air quality, including elevated VOC levels in the environment. In particular, homes with young children, healthcare facilities, schools, and offices with limited ventilation are high-risk environments that require careful monitoring of indoor air quality.  Some of the most common culprits of VOC offgassing include, new paints, varnishes, adhesives, carpets, furniture made from pressed wood products, plywood, foam insulation, cleaning products, air fresheners, personal care products, and certain types of flooring like laminate or vinyl. 

VOC testing can include comprehensive testing or in the case of some commercial settings, testing only for exact/known compounds.  With Silver Valley Mold, we can test together or individually for hundreds of compounds.  We also simplify the process by providing the option to chooose from various testing packages. 

We reccommend testing a few months after major renovations, before moving into a new home, annually in high-risk environments, and whenever occupants experience unexplained health symptoms.