Crystalline Silica Free for Counter Tops?
Increased attention to health and safety in the construction and home renovation sectors has in recent years extended to the materials that are used in all kinds of home fixtures, including countertops. The measure has been on the radar of opponents — who are accusing the department of moving too fast — since its inception, in part due to crystalline silica found in a material such as quartz, which is used to construct high-end walls. Read on to better understand what exactly crystalline silica "free" means for countertops and how that can help homeowners and designers make smarter decisions in terms of health and environmental consciousness.
What is crystalline silica
What is Crystalline Silica?
Crystalline silica is a constituent of virtually all various types of rocks and appears quite ubiquitously in sand and soil. Quartz, existing in natural stone and also used in the making of your engineered stone countertops, is the most familiar form of silica. Crystalline silica particles are small enough to inhale [6,7]. If inhaled, these particles can lodge deep in the lungs and create many health problems, such as silicosis, an incurable lung disease, and other respiratory-related illnesses.
Traditional Countertop Risks
Even traditional stone countertops (and certain quartz types) contain as much as 90% crystalline silica. For these materials, a great amount of cutting and grinding occurs during fabrication and installation, which, when inhaled as dust, would exposure you or a family member to crystalline silica — the same material we find in asbestos that causes the fatal disease silicosis (and also lung cancer). This is in turn has triggered regulations that occured mainly in the US from agencies like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) requiring stringent exposure limits and safety practices.
The Advantages of Crystalline Silica Free Countertops
Enhanced Safety
Not to mention that crystalline silica-free countertops are an even safer option as they also eliminate health hazards caused by silica dust. This is especially significant when taking into account the health of workers fabricating and installing these countertops and for homeowners who want a living environment free of formaldehyde.
Effectual Adherence To Health Regulation
Manufacturers and builders are always trying to avoid fines from new OSHA regulations surrounding silica dust exposure, and using crystalline silica and silicate free materials could well be part of the solution. In addition to the fact that compliance is important for health and safety in the workplace, it is also important to help avoid potential legal and financial penalties that can be incurred due to non-compliance.
Durability and Aesthetics
These countertops may be free from crystalline silica but that does not make them less durable or aesthetically pleasing. Changes in the way materials are manufactured now enable the next generation of materials to satisfy range of design aesthetics and performance criteria.
Sustainability
Crystalline silica free materials tend to be more sustainable. Manufactured alternatives are less taxing on natural stone resources and often made with recycled materials, helping them achieve a more eco-friendly status.
Choosing the Right Material
Material Options
Crystalline silica free countertops selection options among existing products. The range includes materials such as solid surfaces manufactured from acrylics or polyesters, bio-based composites, and recycled glass surfaces, all of which have their own aesthetic and functional characteristics.
Consider the Application
Materials can vary widely and depend on the specific application and desired appearance. Kitchens require durable and stain-resistant materials, while bathrooms tend to be more aesthetic and easier to clean.
Consult with Professionals
Choosing the Right CountertopsIf you have a few months before you need to choose new countertops to fit your budget, take the time to consult with professionals about the best choice of materials. An individual can be able to bring out the best materials that will be best for you and do the fixing from coaching to safety standards and guidelines.
In short, choosing countertops that are free of crystalline silica means making a choice that promotes health and sustainability. These options are not only safe, durable and aesthetically appealing, but are also designed to meet contemporary safety requirements, and are environmentally friendly. From kitchen renovation to bathroom design, consider crystalline silica free countertops when building for a healthier home.