Question from Inga
Dear Debra,
We had engineered hardwood floors installed in 2 bedrooms over 8 weeks ago. 7 days later I was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia (both lungs) and am still recovering. The fumes are still there, and I can’t enter those rooms without getting an asthma attack and chest pain. We’re not sure if it’s the adhesive or the finish, but I’m very sensitive. We’ve tried open windows, a dehumidifier, window fans, floor fans, and, recently, a ceramic space heater. We moved our 2 small children into our bedroom and the furniture into the halls; it is getting a little cramped. Should we wait a few more months for the VOCs to off-gass? Should we remove the wood and install ceramic tiles? We are even considering moving…any ideas? Thanks!
Debra’s Answer
I think you will be fine to simply remove the engineered flooring and replace it with ceramic tile. No need to move.
This is why I do NOT recommend engineered floors.
