In the last few years, people have become more conscious about how their daily activities and life choices impact the environment. People have opened their eyes, and they are now more aware of the responsibility to reduce their carbon footprint. This has resulted in the widespread use of sustainable products in many aspects of life, from reusable metal straws and water bottles, cloth grocery bags, compost bins, recyclable packaging materials, and more.

One thing you may not have considered is that the chemicals and materials you use in your home may be harming the environment, too. Many brands and types of paint used on your walls, and caulks and sealants used in construction contain toxic volatile organic compounds and other components that can cause illnesses.

Toxicity in Commercially Available Sealants

Decades ago, paint formulators thought it was necessary to use VOCs to apply a coat of paint. These man-made solvents are unstable, and they contain toxins and carcinogens that end up in the air as the material dries. VOCs such as formaldehyde can usually be found in fuel, hydraulic fluids, paints, and sealers.

 VOCs can cause irritation on the skin, and long-term exposure can lead to damage to your nervous system. They can also cause asthma, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and loss of coordination.

Thankfully, modern caulks and sealants now contain low to zero VOCs, and they work very well in keeping your furnishings watertight.

Some sealants also contain crystalline silica, which can break down into small particles and can be inhaled. Silica exposure can lead to silicosis, which is a lung disease that cannot be cured. 

Some adhesives also contain toxic heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. These substances are dangerous not just to the workers who use them, but they can cause health issues in paint manufacturers, too.

 Sustainable Caulks and Sealants

Large amounts of adhesives, fillers, and sealants are necessary for interior design and construction projects. The formulation for these materials makes sure that they are able to hold and seal impeccably to keep any moisture out of your home furnishings.

Local weather and climate conditions have a significant impact on sealants, causing them to crack or loosen. You need to replace your sealants every 5 to 8 years to make sure that the spaces are safe from moisture. Consistent sealant updates and upgrades can help you avoid expensive repairs.

 Aside from VOCs and other toxic substances released into the air to be inhaled by humans, the production and manufacturing of commercial waterproof sealants result in air and water emissions that can damage the environment. This is why it’s essential to make sure that your caulking and sealing contractors are using sustainable materials when working in your home. 

Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) certification makes it easy to identify environmentally friendly products. GECA-certified adhesives, fillers, and sealants meet all human health, ethical impact, and environmental criteria.

When a product is certified against GECA’s Adhesives, Fillers & Sealants standard (AFSv4.0i-2014), you can be sure that the product has been assessed to meet environmental, human health and ethical impact criteria.

Conclusion

If you are concerned about your carbon footprint, you should take a close look at the materials used to repair and upgrade structures in your home. Sustainable caulks and sealants will not damage the environment and your health. Talk to your contractors about their environmentally friendly materials and techniques.

Are you looking for caulking services on the Gold Coast? Quality Seal Australia is here for you. Our expertise lies in identifying the right type of sealant to meet your requirements. We use every opportunity to use GECA-certified products for individual and environmental health and safety. Contact our caulking experts today!