Is Polyurethane For Floors Hazardous To Babies

Polyurethane is a sealant and finish product that is used to protect and enhance fine wood floors cabinets and furniture.

Is polyurethane for floors hazardous to babies.

Heavy foot traffic coming through that particular area could have hazardous results unless protective top flooring is laid down. It s also one of the potential replacements for polyurethanes that use isocyanates especially those that spread post reaction isocyanates in the air. The sanding and dust generated from polyurethane recoating is toxic and lingers in cracks and crevices nearby. To minimize the dangers of polyurethane vapors always apply the finishes in a well ventilated space wear a face mask and eye protection and don t smoke.

It s understandable to avoid side effects. If your floor is being finished by a professional and it s possible for you to leave the home it s best to stay away long enough for the finish to cure and the odor to disperse which usually takes about 48 hours. Rubber matting or plastic floor protectors will suffice to prevent people slipping on the glossy surface. However we are sleeping in the house with my 3 year old and i m starting to freak out that the fumes will harm her.

High concentrations of these materials have been shown to be hazardous to human health. While it is similar to varnish in terms of application and appearance polyurethane is generally harder and more abuse resistant which means it is commonly used for sealing wood floors. Green polyurethane is the first modified hybrid polyurethane that doesn t use hazardous isocyanates in the manufacturing process. Some vocs in hardwood floor refinishing products include benzene formaldehyde toulen xylene and arsenic.

We had our floors refinished with a stain and oil polyurethane 6 days ago. All of these materials off gas at normal room temperature leading to dizziness eye. I have two little guys 2 5 year old and a one week old newborn and i m very concerned about toxic issues especially for the newborn but we also need to move into the house. Curing times will vary based on the type and quantity of the product as well as the type of floor and air flow.

You ll find that vocs stands for volatile organic compounds. We ve been airing out the house for 4 days. If you do indeed decide that you would prefer a gloss finish polyurethane varnish is the perfect choice. Prevention eco friendly options are always the most ideal treatment for hardwood floors but polyurethane exposure can also be limited by allowing proper curing before re entering the affected area.

We finished our floors yesterday and this morning with two coats of polyurethane it is dry.