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Interior Finishes (C30): Wall Finishes

Materials

Hard Surfaces

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Soft Surfaces

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Issues
Issues Interior finishes have an enormous impact on the Indoor Air Quality of buildings, because the materials they're made from may emit toxins which can cause severe allergic reactions and illness. Some interior products may also affect the development of mold, which has been found to be a serious health hazard in many buildings. Maintenance requirements for interior finishes impact IAQ and the amount of resources used over time. More durable products need to be replaced less often, but must be aesthetically acceptable in a "timeless" sense in order to merit retention in design.

Wall finishes such as paints may require more frequent replacement because they are not as durable as wallcoverings, but vinyl wallcoverings, although durable, have serious issues with off-gassing and may create moisture problems if used improperly on exterior wall surfaces or in high-humidity areas.

In general, reducing the amount of material used, by eliminating 'layers' of material finishes, is a very effective way to improve environmental performance. How to balance the aesthetics of such design approaches with issues of durability, flexibility and longevity is best addressed early in the planning and programming process.