Indoor Environmental Quality
The materials used in construction can affect the quality of a building’s indoor environment. The primary impact comes from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be emitted from some products and produce negative health impacts. VOC emissions are minimized with the use of precast concrete because they require no coatings or finishes in interior applications. If coatings are required, precast concrete offers the advantage of being compatible with many low water-based VOC materials. Exposed concrete floors can utilize low VOC coatings and eliminate the need for carpeting or other flooring products.
Mold spores are a significant contributor to indoor air quality problems. Concrete does not sustain mould growth.