Engineered lumber is becoming increasingly common, because old-growth forests are nearly gone and wood product manufacturers are trying to use trees more efficiently. For example, the medium-density fiberboard used to make many cabinets has one of the highest formaldehyde resin to wood ratios. Formaldehyde is found in many household products, even fiberglass insulation. In most homes, formaldehyde concentrations are low enough that most people can't smell it, but even at low levels, formaldehyde causes untold suffering. At concentrations above 0.1 parts per million, for example, many people experience watering eyes, burning of the eyes and throat, nausea and difficulty breathing.
Some individuals become sensitized to formaldehyde over time.
They suffer adverse symptoms at extremely low levels and react badly to other chemicals as well. At higher concentrations, formaldehyde may trigger asthma attacks and long-term exposure may lead to cancer. To protect yourself and your family when remodeling a home, your best bet is to specify formaldehyde-free building products. Weyerhauser and Louisiana Pacific both produce low-formaldehyde OSB, which is available at some building supply centers or can be special ordered. If you want to purchase formaldehyde-free cabinets, contact the Neil Kelly Company in Portland, Oregon.