Optimal Indoor Air Quality 

The air above and around an acid stained concrete floor may not be as crisp, clean and refreshing as the air near this winding river, but it will be "optimal" in terms of the overall home or building environment.

The air above and around an acid stained concrete floor may not be as crisp, clean and refreshing as the air near this winding river, but it will be "optimal" in terms of the overall home or building environment.

The four main sources of poor indoor air quality in a residence or building are:  1) allergens, such as animal dander, dust mites, pollen, mold, and mildew; 2) retained moisture and dampness in architectural elements, fabric and furnishings; 3) residual odors from smoke, appliances, personal care items, HVAC systems and cleaning agents; and 4) volatile organic compounds (VOC's) emitted by aerosol sprays, wood preservatives, air fresheners, graphics and crafts products, and inexpensive, artificial building materials.  All of these respiratory irritants are fostered by the use of carpeting, including the padding and adhesive, while moisture and VOC problems are also often commonly associated with wood and tile installations. 

Acid-stained concrete flooring is totally different in this regard:  it can be installed with little to no VOC's, and overall, it fosters optimal indoor air quality. This is because acid-stained flooring allows moisture to readily evaporate,  provides no place for dust mites to hide or mold or mildew to grow, cleans easily, and does not store odors. Furthermore, most good concrete sealers available today contain absolutely no harmful vapors, odors, or residues.