Sometimes I find even “low-VOC” products still have that chemical smell for weeks, which makes me wonder what’s really in them...
That’s been my experience too, but I’m not convinced air purifiers and HRVs alone are the answer. VOCs off-gas at different rates, and some of the more stubborn ones don’t always get scrubbed out by filters or ventilation. Have you tried tracking indoor air quality with a VOC sensor? I did after a recent project—surprisingly, the numbers dropped faster with certain “VOC-absorbing” paints than with just ventilation. Maybe it’s placebo, or maybe some brands actually work... but I wouldn’t write them off entirely.
Funny you mention VOC sensors—I picked one up after a client insisted on using a “zero-VOC” finish, and I was curious if it would actually make a difference. Like you said, the numbers didn’t always line up with what my nose was telling me. Sometimes the readings dropped off quickly, but that new paint smell lingered for days. Other times, the sensor still showed elevated VOCs even after I thought the space was aired out.
I do think you’re onto something with the “VOC-absorbing” paints. I’ve seen mixed results, but there was one project where we used a particular brand in a nursery, and the air quality readings stabilized way faster than usual. Maybe it’s the chemistry, maybe it’s just better ventilation that day—hard to say.
VOCs off-gas at different rates, and some of the more stubborn ones don’t always get scrubbed out by filters or ventilation.
That’s been my experience too. It can feel like a bit of a guessing game sometimes, but I’d say you’re not imagining things. It’s worth experimenting with different products and tracking results—sometimes those little tweaks really do add up.
I’ve noticed the same thing—sometimes the sensor says the air’s fine, but my nose disagrees. I’ve started doing a step-by-step: open all the windows, run exhaust fans, and then check readings at intervals. Still, there are times when that “new house” smell just won’t quit. Have you ever tried using an air purifier with activated carbon after painting? I’m curious if that actually helps with the stubborn VOCs or if it’s just wishful thinking.
I’ve had the same issue—my air quality monitor says everything’s “good” but I can still smell something off, especially after painting or installing new cabinets. I did try an air purifier with activated carbon once. Honestly, it seemed to help with the smell, but I’m not sure how much it actually cut down on VOCs versus just masking odors. If you’re dealing with stubborn smells, though, it’s probably worth a shot. I also switched to low-VOC paint for touch-ups and that made a noticeable difference.
I did try an air purifier with activated carbon once. Honestly, it seemed to help with the smell, but I’m not sure how much it actually cut down on VOCs versus just masking odors.
That’s the thing—just because the smell fades doesn’t mean the chemicals are gone. I’ve always wondered if those monitors are missing something, or if we’re just more sensitive than the sensors. Has anyone tried opening up walls or floors and found hidden sources? Sometimes it’s not just paint or cabinets...
