FAQ - General

Formaldehyde - Now What?

 Formaldehyde; what is it?

Formaldehyde is an important chemical used widely by industry to manufacture building materials and numerous household products. It is also a by-product of combustion and certain other natural processes. Thus, it may be present in varying concentrations both indoors and outdoors.

 Sources of Formaldehyde

Sources of formaldehyde in the home include some building materials, smoking, household products, and the use of some un-vented, fuel-burning appliances, like gas stoves or kerosene space heaters.  Formaldehyde is used to add permanent-press qualities to clothing, draperies and other textiles, as a component of glues and adhesives, and as a preservative in some paints and coating products.

In homes, the most common sources of formaldehyde are likely to be pressed wood products made using adhesives that contain urea-formaldehyde (UF) resins: particleboard (used as subflooring and shelving and in cabinetry and furniture); plywood paneling (used for decorative wall covering, cabinets, furniture); and fiberboard (used for drawer fronts, cabinets, and furniture).

The rate at which products like pressed wood or textiles release formaldehyde can change. Formaldehyde emissions will generally decrease as products age. When the products are new, high indoor temperatures or humidity can cause increased release of formaldehyde from these products.

 Health Effects

Formaldehyde, a colorless, pungent-smelling gas, can cause watery eyes, burning sensations in the eyes and throat, nausea, and difficulty in breathing in some humans exposed at elevated levels. High concentrations may trigger attacks in people with asthma. There is evidence that some people can develop sensitivity to formaldehyde. It has also been shown to cause cancer in animals and may cause cancer in humans. Health effects include eye, nose, and throat irritation; wheezing and coughing; fatigue; skin rash; severe allergic reactions.

 Levels in Homes

Average concentrations in older homes are generally well below 0.1 ppm (parts per million). In homes with significant amounts of new pressed wood products, levels can be greater than 0.3 ppm.

 Reducing Exposure to Formaldehyde in Homes

If you experience adverse reactions to formaldehyde, you may want to ask about the formaldehyde content of products before you purchase them, or avoid the use of them. For further information on formaldehyde and consumer products, call the EPA Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) assistance line (202-554-1404).

 Steps to Reduce Exposure        

Use "exterior-grade" pressed wood products (lower-emitting because they contain phenol resins, not urea resins).Use air conditioning and dehumidifiers to maintain moderate temperature and reduce humidity levels.Increase ventilation, particularly after bringing new sources of formaldehyde into the home. 

 Steps to Reduce Exposure from New Flooring or Furniture        

Check manufacturer’s packaging to ensure that the contents are certified to meet California’s current CARB Phase 2 levels.By far, the best way to reduce even normal levels of formaldehyde is to use ventilation.Cut and process all pieces OUTSIDE of dwelling areas.Expect some odors to last a week or more, but to reduce over time. Remember: the more ventilation, the faster the dissipation of even normal odors from formaldehyde or other materials. 

Maintain moderate temperature and humidity levels and provide adequate ventilation. The rate at which formaldehyde is released is accelerated by heat and may also depend somewhat on the humidity level. Therefore, the use of dehumidifiers and air conditioning to control humidity and to maintain a moderate temperature can help reduce formaldehyde emissions. (Drain and clean dehumidifier collection trays frequently so that they do not become a breeding ground for microorganisms.) Increasing the rate of ventilation in your home will also help in reducing formaldehyde levels.

 What is CalFlor doing to minimize Formaldehyde exposure in its products?

A lot of companies talk about being green. At CalFlor, we're making the effort to do what's best for our customers, our business, our industry, and our planet.  We have re-formulated our D3 glue to ensure that it is free or harmful chemicals, including formaldehyde.   Our Eco Clean floor cleaner is fully biodegradable with no VOC’s or toxic residues.  And we are currently reformulating our popular Click-Seal joint sealer to be even more environmentally sustainable. 

We appreciate the business!

All of our products are available to be seen under the 'Catalog' tab at the top of the page.

For volume pricing contact us! We'll get you a quote. Whether your a manufacturer, distributor or dealer. We have pricing for all order sizes as well as customized accessory programs to fit your needs.

CalFlor does everything we can to provide the best products to the industry. We make an effort in re-formulating products to make them safer and cleaner for the environment. We've reduced VOCs, as well as removed harmful chemicals like Formaldehyde from glues and cleaner formulas. 

Here at CalFlor we are fully committed to protecting and sustaining our environment.  We embrace the responsibility of doing our part to ensure that the world we pass on to our children and future generations is safe, clean and sustainable.  We continually strive to make environmental improvements in our products, our processes and our facility.

1. How do I apply ColorSeal on edges? - ColorSeal perimeter sealant can be applied with the integrated nozzle. Clean the surface of the application area, cut the tip to the desired bead thickness, then apply a continuous bead of caulk. Press the caulk firmly down on the surface to ensure a good bond, smoothing and removing excess as you go with your finger, damp cloth or caulk removal tool.
2. Will it cover silicone caulk? - It will cover silicone caulk but is manufactured to be used as a sealant itself.
3. Is this firmer than regular bathroom caulk? - ColorSeal will cure about the mid-range hardness for sealant, firm, but flexible. 
4. Can this be used on granite counter tops? - Yes, ColorSeal can be used on granite.

1. Can I use this to glue wood onto concrete floor base? - Eurobond D3 Glue is meant to be used on the tongue and grove of a floating floor and is not intended to be used as an adhesive to glue down wood flooring to a subfloor. Gluing wood flooring onto a wood or concrete subfloor requires a full-spread (trowelable) adhesive, generally urethane or similar. Check with your wood floor manufacturer for recommendations.
2. Is it water soluble? Can you clean excess off with a damp rag? - Prior to drying time, you can use a damp rag to clean off excess Eurobond D3 Glue. In the initial couple hours, it can still be able to be cleaned off with a damp cloth with mild soap and water. Once it begins to cure (progressively from 2 hours to 2 days), we recommend using FilmFree Glue & Grime Remover Spray to remove any excess or spilled D3 Glue.
3. Which instructions do I follow, the manufacturer's or the glue's? Does the glue expand after drying? - It is best to follow the manufacturer's recommended installation methods and to confirm that the product can be used during installation. Eurobond D3 Glue does not expand after drying.
4. Will this work to fix gaps? - If your flooring is gapping, there may be other variables that could be causing the gapping and Eurobond D3 Glue wouldn't be gauranteed to fix the problem. We suggest to first contact your flooring manufacturer to troubleshoot what may be causing the gapping. For further information or questions, feel free to contact us at 1-888-277-FLOR.
5. Would this work for floating cork floors? - Yes, Eurobond D3 Glue works great for floating cork floor installations, but as with any flooring, follow the manufacturer's recommended installation methods.
6. Can I use this after floor has been installed? Can I use this glue in areas that are opening between planks? - No, CalFlor Eurobond D3 Glue was manufactured to be used during installation and applied within the tongue and groove or locking mechanism of the flooring.
7. Does this glue have a clear look once it dries or is it white like Elmer's glue? - Once Eurobond D3 Glue dries it has more of an off white to clear color. Most all flooring T&G glues are this whitish color so they can be easily seen to be wiped off during installation. Then they dry clear and are invisible in a properly laid floor.
8. Can I use this for Vinyl Plank T&G seams near sink and refrigerator areas to seal the seams? - Unfortunately, T&G glues are usually never used on LVT, LVP or LVF (luxury vinyl floors) and we don't recommend using Eurobond D3 Glue for your vinyl flooring.
9. Can this be used for T molding on laminate floor? - The Eurobond D3 Type II Adhesive is for Click and Tongue and Groove Floors and is meant to be used in between the planks. This is not an adhesive that you would use to glue down your T molding and secure to the subfloor. For that use we would recommend a urethane-grade construction adhesive. But as with any flooring, please follow the manufacturer’s recommended installation methods and products.
10. What are the ingredients? - For further information on the contents of the Eurobond D3 Glue, you can view the SDS on the product page. Here is the link to the SDS: Click Here
11. Does this glue have PVA in it? -Yes, Eurobond D3 Type II Glue does have PVA in it.
12. Can it be used for bamboo floors? - Yes, Eurobond D3 Glue works great for bamboo floating floor installations, but as with any flooring, follow the manufacturer's recommended installation methods.
13. Is this product good for Pergo laminate planking? - The Eurobond D3 Glue is a great installation product for laminate flooring, however you will need to confirm with your flooring manufacturer’s instructions to confirm that gluing the tongue and grove of the planks is an acceptable installation method for your flooring installation. 

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1. Does this work on chips on a tile floor? - We suggest you use Mix2Match TileFix to repair chips on a tile floor.
2. How big of an area can this kit repair? - How much this kit can repair is dependent on the length, width, and depth of the damage. The damaged area will need to be deep enough for putty to stick to. While there is enough putty in one tube to do about a 5"x4" repair (at minimum 1/16" deep), we don't recommend much larger than an inch by an inch. This is because it becomes difficult to disguise a repair bigger than that. The pigments are enough for multiple repairs as they are highly pigmented. Should you require more putty, please contact us.
3. Will this fill and work in larger gaps left from corners of door jams? - The Mix2Match FloorFix is great for filling gaps if there is a large enough gap that the filler can be applied to. If the hole is deeper, you might want to apply a couple layers of plain putty 1st, then save the pigmented mixture layer for last.
4. Will this repair scratches that are not deep, but showing up on surface of linoleum flooring? -The Mix2Match FloorFix can repair deep scratches and gouges where putty can be applied and stick. The surface scratches can be masked with CalFlor's Vinyl ScratchAway.
5. What is the drying time for FloorFix? - Repairs completely dry within 8-12 hours, however you can speed this up by using a blow dryer or heat gun. Allow to fully cure (2-3 days) before heavy use.
6. How can I repair scratches on my hardwood floors? - Please visiteasyfloorrepairs.com for videos, tips, tricks and more to guide you through your repair.
7. What do you use the lacquer for? - The lacquer seals the repair making the repair durable and less susceptible to traffic, maintenance, and moisture, while giving it a nice finish. Layers of lacquer can help better match different sheen levels in a floor.
8. What can you use as a solvent to remove excess paste from tile? - Warm water will clean up excess putty, if the putty has hardened and water cleanup is not preferred, you can scrape the excess away.

Will this kit work for a hardwood floor? - Will this kit work for a hardwood floor?

1. Does this work on chips on a tile/vinyl/wood floor? - Yes, it can also be used on materials such as formica.
2. Will this work to repair a kitchen granite countertop seam that is separating? - The Hard Surface Repair Kit can be used to fill the seam, however if the countertop is separating, it isn't going to bond the two parts together. If the gap continues to open, you may need to apply another repair in the future.
3. Can this be used to fill small seam gaps between vinyl tiles? - Yes.
4. How big of an area can this kit repair? - How much this kit can repair is dependent on the length, width, and depth of the damage. The damaged area will need to be deep enough for putty to stick to. While there is enough putty in one tube to do about a 5"x4" repair (at minimum 1/16" deep), we don't recommend much larger than an inch by an inch. This is because it becomes difficult to disguise a repair bigger than that. The pigments are enough for multiple repairs as they are highly pigmented. Should you require more putty, please contact us.
5. Can this product be used to repair scratch in bathtub/shower/sink? - Unfortunately, the Hard Surface Repair Kit is not intended for use in high water areas such as shower floors, water-line or below on tubs, spas or pools, or outdoor products that may be exposed to the elements.
6. Will this fill and work in larger gaps left from corners of door jams? - The Hard Surface Repair Kit is great for filling gaps if there is a large enough gap that the filler can be applied to. If the hole is deeper, you might want to apply a couple layers of plain putty 1st, then save the pigmented mixture layer for last.
7. Will this repair scratches that are not deep, but showing up on surface of linoleum flooring? -It can repair deep scratches and gouges where putty can be applied and stick. The surface scratches can be masked with CalFlor's Vinyl ScratchAway.
8. What is the drying time for repairs? - Repairs completely dry within 8-12 hours, however you can speed this up by using a blow dryer or heat gun. Allow to fully cure (2-3 days) before heavy use.
9. How can I repair scratches on my hardwood floors? - Please see interior instruction pamphlet or visit us at easyfloorrepairs.com for how-to videos.
10. What do you use the lacquer for? - The lacquer seals the repair making the repair durable and less susceptible to traffic, maintenance, and moisture, while giving it a nice finish. Layers of lacquer can help better match different sheen levels in a floor.
11. What can you use as a solvent to remove excess paste from tile? - Warm water will clean up excess putty, if the putty has hardened and water cleanup is not preferred, you can scrape the excess away.

1. Can this tool be used to remove a single plank? - The Pro Pull Bar is used for installation, not for plank removal.
2. What is the distance from the hammer strike point to the wall and what is the overall length of the bar? - It is approximately 14" from the end of the bar, closest to the wall, to the strike point. The distance to the wall is going to depend on the expansion gap needed for installation, if any. The overall length of the PRO Pull Bar is 21.5".
3. Where can I get a replacement Black plastic cap? - If you need replacement parts, please feel free to call us at (888) 277 - FLOR.

1. Are these oil-based? - CalFlor ScratchCure Repair Pens are not oil-based rather, pigmented alcohol-based.
2. May I use this on a leather couch? - ScratchCure repair pens are designed to be used on hard surfaces such as flooring and cabinets or tables. We cannot guarantee the effectiveness of ScratchCure on soft materials, however it may work for your needs. If you want to test it, make sure to have some rubbing alcohol and soft towel on hand to use to blend, in case the color isn’t to your liking.
3. Will this product work to repair my dresser and desk? - Yes, ScratchCure repair pens are designed to be used on hard surfaces such as flooring and cabinets or tables.
4. How can I repair scratches on my hardwood floors?ScratchAway and our ScratchCure repair pens are great solutions for surface scratches. If it's a deep scratch our FloorFix or Hard Surface Repair kit are great solutions because you can customize the repair coloring to the wood grain.

1. Can this be used on fabrics like sofas and chairs? - Unfortunately, ScratchAway cannot be applied to non-wood materials or fabrics used on furniture such as sofas or chairs.
2. Can I use on auto glass? - ScratchAway is specially formulated for wood and laminate floors, and unfortunately wouldn't be recommended to use on glass.
3. Can I use on bamboo floor or dining room table? - Yes, ScratchAway can be used on bamboo flooring. It may work for your table as well. However, we recommend testing in an inconspicuous area prior to applying to the main surface. CalFlor ScratchCure Repair Pens are also a great solution to repair scratches on tables.
4. Can this be used in vinyl tile flooring that looks like wood? - ScratchAway is specially formulated for wood and laminate floors. We would recommend using our Vinyl ScratchAway for vinyl products.
5. Will this product help reduce or hide scratches in a large area without damaging the laminate floor? - ScratchAway is manufactured for hiding or masking scratches and would be able to cover a large area, however it is not a permanent fix for scratches. Large, worn, scratched laminate floors sometimes will benefit more from a "refresher" topcoat product. ScratchAway works great for localized areas and only takes seconds to apply.
6. How can I repair scratches on my hardwood floors? - ScratchAway and our ScratchCure repair pens are great solutions for surface scratches. If it's a deep scratch our FloorFix or Hard Surface Repair kit are great solutions because you can customize the repair coloring to the wood grain.

1. Does this have to be reapplied after mopping the floor? - Yes, over time, with foot traffic and regular cleaning, ScratchAway will need to be re-applied.
2. What color does this dry to? - The Vinyl ScratchAway is applied with the mohair applicator tip and is buffed clear.
3. Can this be used on Cesar stone counter tops to Denice scratches?- Vinyl ScratchAway is only intended for use on vinyl and LVT flooring.

1. Can this be used along with fiberglass attic insulation? - SilverStep is designed to be used as a flooring underlayment between a hard subfloor and the flooring. Any use of SilverStep outside of what it's designed for has not been tested.
2. Can this be used under vinyl plank flooring? - No. However SilverStep can be used under some thicker (>1/4") WPC flooring (wood-plastic-composite), but as with any flooring, please follow the manufacturer’s recommended installation methods and products.
3. Can this be installed directly over a concrete slab? - Yes, SilverStep underlayment and moisture barrier can be installed over a concrete slab.

1. Can this product be used with laminate flooring that has the premium pad attached to it? - Yes, VaporBlock can be used with pad attached flooring.
2. The NWFA suggests a vapor barrier in between the concrete and plywood, will this work? - Yes, VaporBlock is a vapor barrier and would work for your application.

1. Can this be used on tiles both on floors and counterTops? - Yes, this incluses tiles made from materials such as granite, marble, formica, ceramic, wilsonart, etc.
2. Can it be used just as a touch up paint on the tiles? Once touched up or painted how long does it last? - For tile repairs we suggest using Mix2Match TileFix. The pigments in each Mix2Match Repair Kit can be used as a touch up paint in cracks and crevasses, however you will need to make sure to add in the lacquer to your tint mixture. The pigments by themselves will not stand up to surface traffic. How long the repair will last is dependent on many factors, including the traffic level of the area and on whether the repair is slightly recessed or not. However we have found repairs to last many years with normal wear and tear. tile floor.
3. How big of an area can this kit repair? - How much this kit can repair is dependent on the length, width, and depth of the damage. The damaged area will need to be deep enough for putty to stick to. While there is enough putty in one tube to do about a 5"x4" repair (at minimum 1/16" deep), we don't recommend much larger than an inch by an inch. This is because it becomes difficult to disguise a repair bigger than that. The pigments are enough for multiple repairs as they are highly pigmented. Should you require more putty, please contact us.
4. Once touched up or painted how long does it last? - How long the repair will last is dependent on many factors, including the traffic level of the area and on whether the repair is slightly recessed or not. However, we have found repairs to last many years with normal wear and tear.
5. Will this harden enough to prevent damage to it if walked on top of? - TileFix is a great repair solution for tile floors. Providing the instructions are followed, it will dry as hard as the floor.
6. Do you mix the color into the filler putty? Or do you fill the chip and use the mixed paint to color it? - You mix the color into the putty. However if you are filling a deep hole you can pre-fill the hole with putty and then cover the top portion with a putty tint mixture.
7. What is the drying time for TileFix? - Repairs completely dry within 8-12 hours, however you can speed this up by using a blow dryer or heat gun. Allow to fully cure (2-3 days) before heavy use.
8. Will this work to fix a marble shower wall? - The Mix2Match TileFix Kit is a great solution for marble repair, however, please note that it is not intended for use in high water areas such as the water-line or below on tubs.
9. What do you use the lacquer for? - The lacquer seals the repair making the repair durable and less susceptible to traffic, maintenance, and moisture, while giving it a nice finish. Layers of lacquer can help better match different sheen levels in a floor.
10. What can you use as a solvent to remove excess paste from tile? - Warm water will clean up excess putty, if the putty has hardened and water cleanup is not preferred, you can scrape the excess away.

1. Can this be used on Vinyl plank floors? - Yes.
2. Can it be used just as a touch up paint on the tiles? Once touched up or painted how long does it last? - For tile repairs we suggest using Mix2Match TileFix. The pigments in each Mix2Match Repair Kit can be used as a touch up paint in cracks and crevasses, however you will need to make sure to add in the lacquer to your tint mixture. The pigments by themselves will not stand up to surface traffic. How long the repair will last is dependent on many factors, including the traffic level of the area and on whether the repair is slightly recessed or not. However we have found repairs to last many years with normal wear and tear. tile floor.
3. How big of an area can this kit repair? - How much this kit can repair is dependent on the length, width, and depth of the damage. The damaged area will need to be deep enough for putty to stick to. While there is enough putty in one tube to do about a 5"x4" repair (at minimum 1/16" deep), we don't recommend much larger than an inch by an inch. This is because it becomes difficult to disguise a repair bigger than that. The pigments are enough for multiple repairs as they are highly pigmented. Should you require more putty, please contact us.
4. Once touched up or painted how long does it last? - How long the repair will last is dependent on many factors, including the traffic level of the area and on whether the repair is slightly recessed or not. However, we have found repairs to last many years with normal wear and tear.
5. Can this product be used on to repair linoleum chips and razor cuts, long razor cuts? -Yes, Mix2Match VinylFix can be used on linoleum floors and will work on razor cuts providing that the damaged area is big enough for the putty to be pushed into.
6. What is the drying time for VinylFix? - Repairs completely dry within 8-12 hours, however you can speed this up by using a blow dryer or heat gun. Allow to fully cure (2-3 days) before heavy use.
7. Can this be used on Hardwood floors? - Mix2Match VinylFix can be used to make wood repairs. Another option we offer is Mix2Match FloorFix, which is a smaller kit with an expanded wood formula selection.
8. What do you use the lacquer for? - The lacquer seals the repair making the repair durable and less susceptible to traffic, maintenance, and moisture, while giving it a nice finish. Layers of lacquer can help better match different sheen levels in a floor.
9. What can you use as a solvent to remove excess paste from tile? - Warm water will clean up excess putty, if the putty has hardened and water cleanup is not preferred, you can scrape the excess away.