As children, many of us remember our parents saying “go outside and get some fresh air”. The fact is, that statement may hold more truth than they ever realized. People spend about 90% of their time indoors where, according to the EPA, the air can be polluted 2-5 times more than outdoor air.
Common contributors that negatively impact indoor air quality
• Improved insulation of homes and buildings which can minimize fresh air flow
• Animal dander
• Mold or mildew
• Household cleaning supplies
• VOCs from furnishings including flooring, furniture fabrics, wall and window coverings
• Carcinogens from tobacco or other sources of smoke
At Phifer we are doing our part to improve air quality in the indoor fabrics we produce!
Consistent with our commitment to environmental stewardship, Phifer offers the GREENGUARD certification on many of our products.
GREENGUARD is a nationally recognized indoor air quality certification program that tests for and recognizes low emitting products and materials. Greenguard Certification ensures that a product has met some of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for low emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into indoor air.
The Greenguard certification is the first voluntary North American indoor air quality certification focused specifically on commercial building products. In addition, the benefits of Phifer’s involvement are absolutely seen at the consumer level.
Maintaining the Greenguard certification requires us to be continually monitored on a voluntary basis to deliver low chemical emission products that meet the most rigorous requirements in the industry.
Look for the Greenguard certification on many of our current product lines including SheerWeave®, SunTex®, and the Phifertex® line of sling and cushion fabrics.
Development of bio based plasticizers
So, what is a plasticizer? Plasticizers allow for the vinyl coated yarns in woven fabrics to have pliability, or the unique ability to bend and flex without cracking, breaking or holding memory.
They are a key component which allows them the flexibility to be lowered and raised repeatedly with ease when used in a roller shade. SheerWeave Style 4001/4400/4000/4100 fabrics made with DOW ECOLIBRIUM bio-based plasticizers offer a renewable, plant-based alternative to those made with traditional petroleum-based plasticizers. Fabrics made with ECOLIBRIUM can lower greenhouse gas emissions by up to 40% when compared to those using traditional PVC compounds. Styles 4001, 4400, 4000 and 4100 are phthalate-free, lead-free and RoHS compliant. The fabrics retain all of the established benefits of traditional vinyl including durability, cleanability and longevity and can also be used in exterior shading systems.
Reduced Petroleum Use and Greenhouse Gas Avoidance Calculator
Check out your estimated petroleum savings and greenhouse gas avoidance when specifying SheerWeave Style 4001/4400/4000/4100 fabric in your roller shades. Simply scroll to the bottom of this page and input the total area of glass to be covered with your shade fabric project.
PVC- Free Fabrics
PVC-free SheerWeave Infinity2 roller shade fabrics are made with 100% recycled content, are 100% recyclable, and provide a PVC-free option to manage natural light, heat and glare at the window. These eco-friendly materials are full basketweaves designed to meet the most stringent environmental design standards.
Cradle to Cradle Certified™ Bronze, Style 8000 is another PVC-free and 100% recyclable sun control fabric available from the Phifer SheerWeave product line. Delivering enhanced performance for solar heat gain reduction and material health rated, Style 8000 has the added benefit of being eligible for LEED Material Ingredient Disclosure credits.
Protection from the sun
Phifer’s development of interior and exterior sun shading fabrics over many years has allowed protection from the sun for homes, schools and businesses. As an example of our commitment to sun protection, Phifer is a Corporate Council member and proud supporter of The Skin Cancer Foundation, the leading organization for educating the public and medical professionals about skin cancer.
Utilizing special events and a wealth of information on their website, the Skin Cancer Foundation is the top resource for learning how to prevent skin cancer, the importance of early detection and quick, effective treatment.
Learn more about Phifer
We’re proud of these efforts toward sustainability and healthy living in the markets and communities where Phifer products are used.
Should you have questions or need more information about Phifer’s commitment to healthy living with our sustainable and environmentally friendly products, give us a call, live chat with us on our website or contact us to learn more.