Air Doctor offer a comprehensive indoor air quality testing service in the Tauranga and Bay of Plenty region, with the aim of improving indoor air quality by eliminating individual sources of pollution or to reduce their emissions.

More about air quality

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are present in many building products such as treated wood products, insulation, adhesives, carpeting and some paints. They can even be found in hairspray, Deodorants and Air fresheners. They can cause dizziness, headaches, eye irritation and Asthmatic reactions (New Zealand has the second highest Asthma rates in the world). At high concentrations, they can even be toxic.

VOC chemicals evaporate into the air and are dispersed throughout the life time of the product, a process known as off-gassing. Some products like spray foam insulation will cure quickly, and within a few days the VOCs are virtually gone or are at non-detectable levels. Other products, like pressed wood cabinets, will off-gas for many months. And, if the material is exposed to high temperatures or high moisture levels, emissions will be even higher.

But you have options; such as Glass, ceramics, metal, stone and other hard and inert materials don’t release any VOCs. Solid wood is better than composite. Tile and hardwood are a better choice than vinyl flooring. Natural carpet like wool is better than synthetic. Water-based products, such as latex paint and caulking, have lower levels of VOCs than solvent-based products.