The duration for formaldehyde emissions to cease from furniture varies depending on several factors, including the type of furniture, the materials used, environmental conditions, and ventilation.
Types of wood
| Type | Origin | Price |
| Solid wood | These are natural woods sourced directly from trees, made without adhesives & additives. | Solid wood furniture tends to be more expensive than composite wood products due to the higher cost of materials and craftsmanship. However, solid wood furniture is often considered a long-term investment due to its durability and timeless appeal. |
| Composite wood | Composite wood products, such as plywood and particleboard are generally made from wood particles or fibres, bonded together with adhesives or resins. | Composite wood products are generally more affordable than solid wood furniture, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers. However, the initial cost savings may be offset by shorter lifespans and potential health concerns related to formaldehyde emissions. |
Generally, solid wood will emit less formaldehyde as compared to composite wood which uses adhesives that often contain formaldehyde. Solid wood is a better option in terms of formaldehyde emission levels and durability, even if it can be more expensive.
Plasters / Finishes
| Type | Formulation | Price |
| Natural plaster | Natural plasters, such as lime plaster or clay plaster, are generally made from natural materials, without the addition of chemicals. | The price of natural plasters tends to be higher as the cost of sourcing natural materials, the labour-intensive application process, and the specialized expertise required for installation. |
| Synthetic finishes | Typically formulated from chemicals like resins, additives and solvents, rather than natural ingredients. Example, epoxy coatings or acrylic finishes. | Synthetic plasters, on the other hand, are often more affordable because they are manufactured using synthetic resins and additives, which are generally less expensive than natural ingredients. |
Natural plasters, being non-toxic, don't emit formaldehyde, unlike some synthetic finishes that would, due to its material content. Despite their higher cost, the durability and air quality benefits of natural plasters make them a valuable investment.
Air Purification
During renovation: Keep ventilation constant by opening doors and windows for fresh air to enter and disperse the harmful gases. Utilise fans to aid in airflow and maintain low humidity levels to optimise ventilation efficiency.
After renovation: Continue ventilating whenever possible and wipe surfaces with a damp cloth* to remove any lingering contaminants. Invest in natural absorbents or catalysts which may help break down harmful gases into safer forms.
*Use mild or natural detergents to avoid introducing additional VOCs
Sustainable renovation strategies for an eco-friendly home.
Incorporating sustainability into home renovations is not only beneficial for the environment but also enhances the overall quality of life (and it’s also cost-effective!).
Sustainable Materials
Look out for products certified by reputable eco-labelling programs such as Green Seal or the Singapore Green Label Scheme, which ensure compliance with stringent environmental standards.
Smart Home
Energy management systems track electricity usage, offering insights to identify energy-intensive activities and provide waste reduction strategies, potentially lowering utility bills.
Through the use of automated controls and real-time monitoring, smart homes can actually optimise energy use and improve resource efficiency! Energy management systems track electricity usage, offering insights to identify energy-intensive activities and provide waste reduction strategies, potentially lowering utility bills.
Eco-friendly Appliances
Opt for appliances with high energy efficiency ratings (at least 4 ticks on the Singapore Energy Label). Look for models certified by the National Environment Agency (NEA) or ENERGY STAR for maximum energy savings.
- Air-conditioners: It's critical to select your air conditioner's cooling capacity for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.Oversized air conditioning systems might be more expensive to operate than they are to buy. Additionally, it might not adequately dehumidify the area. This occurs as a result of the air conditioner cooling the room too quickly and shutting off before the moisture content is lowered. However, a system that is too small for the job would not be able to cool and dehumidify the space effectively.
- LED Bulbs: Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights. LED bulbs consume less energy, last longer, and produce less heat, helping to reduce electricity bills and carbon emissions. (LED bulbs use up to 25% less electricity than CFL light bulbs to produce the same amount of light and can last about 2.5 times longer.)
- Refrigerators: Look for refrigerators with higher NEA Energy Label ratings (4 ticks or above). Purchase the smallest refrigerator type suitable for your requirements. Larger models typically require more energy to run.Because they consume more energy, think about whether extra features like automatic icemakers and through-the-door dispensers are really necessary.
- Washing Machines: When compared to a top-loading washing machine of the same capacity, a front-loading washing machine with a load capacity of at least 7 kg can save up to 30% more energy. A tiny household of two to three people could get by with a washing machine that can hold six to eight kilograms. A washing machine that can hold 10–12 kg would be perfect for a larger family.
Tackling the post-renovation checklist for a fresh start.
Cleaning Up
Where to Start: Top-Down Approach
Cleaning should start at the top of the room and proceed downward. Using a duster or microfiber cloth, begin by dusting ceiling fans, light fixtures, and any other high surfaces. Next, clean the trim work, windows, and walls to get rid of any dust or debris. Lastly, vacuum or sweep the floors to remove any last bits of dust and debris. This method minimizes the spread of dust and debris, maximizes efficiency, and ensures that all surfaces are cleaned effectively.Rationale:
- Dusting from the ceiling to the floor makes cleanup easier by ensuring that any dust or debris that comes loose from higher surfaces lands on lower ones.
- Wiping down trim work and walls can help restore the look of recently painted or repaired surfaces by removing accumulated dust and debris.
- By cleaning floors last, you can ensure a complete and spotless finish by preventing recontamination from settled dust or debris.
Use the right cleaning tools
Choose cleaning products and tools that are suitable for the specific surfaces in your renovated space. Using appropriate products and tools ensures safe and effective cleaning without causing harm to surfaces, while also optimizing cleaning efficiency.
Consider using environmentally friendly cleaning products that are safe for both your health and the environment. Seek for cleaners that are free of toxins and harsh chemicals that are either biodegradable or eco-certified. Natural all-purpose cleaners derived from plant-based materials or do-it-yourself remedies including basic home supplies like baking soda and vinegar are two examples. Choosing environmentally friendly products helps to preserve a clean and healthy home environment while also promoting sustainability.
Example:
Final Check: Pay attention to detail
Conducting a final inspection post-renovation is crucial to identify any remaining dust, debris, or imperfections, allowing you to touch up paint, repair minor damages, and promptly address any issues to ensure the space is restored to your satisfaction.
By following these tips and taking a systematic approach to post-renovation cleanup, you can ensure that your space is clean, safe, and ready to enjoy after the renovation is complete.