Solvent-free adhesives minimize odor complaints

According to a proverb, you can’t make an omelet without breaking eggs. Likewise, you can’t do building or renovation work without using materials that may sometimes produce a smell of newness. This smell will normally disappear with proper ventilation. Occasionally, however, residents complain of unpleasant odors remaining long after the craftsmen finished their jobs. These can be minimized if very low-emission adhesives are used.

1. Provide a sufficient amount of fresh air

An adult person needs about 30 m³ of fresh air per hour according to the BINE Information Service. Otherwise, the lack of fresh air may cause headache, fatigue or general discomfort. Perceived (new) odors are then regarded as “pollutants”. Residents believe that these emissions emanate from the materials used for renovation – without there necessarily being a connection. After new construction or renovation work, the interior should therefore always be well ventilated to provide a sufficient amount of fresh air.

2. Carefully prepare the substrate

It is recommended to prepare the subfloor very carefully before installing a new floor. Residual layers of old adhesives should be removed and ideally levelled over so that later no unpleasant odors arise. Before new work is carried out on the floor, the subfloor must be dry as moisture promotes the growth of fungi and thus the formation of odor.

3. Take a healthy breath with EMICODE^®-certified materials

When carrying out the necessary craftsman’s work, very low-emission primers, fillers and adhesives should be used that bear the EMICODE^® seal. Products that have been awarded this seal were produced without any volatile and odor-intensive substances. Compliance with the strict EMICODE^® limit values is ensured by regular spot checks of samples taken from the market by independent testing institutes. If you use building products with this eco label, you’re on the safe side and have the “right nose” to minimize possible odor emissions.