Another Non-PVC Wallcovering

It was heartening to see your publication address the issue of alternatives to vinyl wallcovering in your January issue (EBN

Vol. 9, No. 1). Although the problems with vinyl are well known in the environmental building community, its extensive use for wallcovering is often overlooked. Soft vinyls that are used for walls and upholstery material have the highest PVC and softener content, making them even more harmful than rigid pipes and flooring.

The main problem with the product you reviewed (Allegory from Innovations) is that it is not a “true” replacement for vinyls. Vinyl wallcoverings are used so extensively by architects, designers, and end-users because they are extremely durable, scrubbable, and hard wearing. Many products in the market are much “greener” and cause much less harm to the environment than vinyl; however, since they don’t perform like vinyl, they aren’t viable choices.

Our company does produce a viable alternative to vinyl. Xorel fabrics are produced from woven polyethylene. They are scrubbable and hard wearing beyond the specifications for nearly all vinyls. Unlike vinyls, Xorel does not contain plasticizers, is chlorine-free, and does not produce dioxin in a fire. It has extremely low VOCs and can be safely disposed of.

Environmentally sound products need to perform as well as or better than the products they hope to replace. There are many fine decorative alternatives to vinyl wallcoverings that are healthier for our environment; however, when hard-wearing performance is needed, vinyls are more difficult to replace. End users and green publications need to ask manufacturers the tough questions. Will the product they are touting address not only their environmental concerns but their performance concerns also?

Cliff Goldman, President

Carnegie Fabrics

Rockville Center, New York