This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you have health concerns, please consult a medical professional.
What are VOCs?
Volatile organic compounds are gases released from many everyday products. The EPA notes that indoor levels of many VOCs are consistently higher than outdoor levels.
Levels can rise sharply during and after activities like painting or refinishing floors.
Common sources
Paints and finishes, new furniture and cabinets, flooring and adhesives, cleaning products, air fresheners, stored fuels and hobby supplies.
New construction and remodels often have higher levels for weeks or months.
Common moisture hotspots in Bay Area homes
- 1Attic & roof deck
- 2Bathroom ceiling
- 3Windows & sills
- 4Under sinks
- 5Behind appliances
- 6Crawlspace / garage
The fresh-paint smell is VOCs. Ventilation is the fastest fix.
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How to reduce VOCs
Ventilate during and after projects, choose low-VOC products, store chemicals outside living areas, and let new furniture air out.
If odors persist after a remodel, VOC testing can document what's in the air. AirCare 365 offers VOC testing as an add-on, quoted before any work.
Want measured information about your home?
AirCare 365 provides indoor air quality and mold and indoor air quality testing across the Bay Area.
Sources
Serving San Francisco, San Mateo, Menlo Park, San Jose, Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, Oakland, Fremont and the rest of the Bay Area.