Homeowners regularly ask if their granite countertops are the cause of their asthma, allergies, bronchitis, sinus infections, or pneumonia. The answer is an unequivocal, "NO". Granite countertops do not cause respiratory ailments.



Often, these folks mention a hair test indicting uranium exposure. However, the medical profession does not recognize hair tests for diagnosis of medical conditions. An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) stated,



Literature from most of the laboratories suggested that their reports were useful in managing a wide variety of diseases and supposed nutrient imbalances. However, commercial use of hair analysis in this manner is unscientific, economically wasteful, and probably illegal.



Rather than focusing on granite, we suggest these families investigate other changes made in the home just before symptoms began. Look for exposures that could plausibly be associated with the symptoms. Formaldehyde exposure is a very common cause of respiratory disorders.



Many pressed wood products emit formaldehyde. Medium density fiberboard (MDF) doors and trim are among the worst culprits. Laminate flooring can emit huge amounts of formaldehyde. Some cabinets emit enough formaldehyde to raise the concentration to undesirable levels throughout the home.



Most paint and varnish emit hefty amounts of formaldehyde when they are fresh, along with a mix solvent vapors. Aggressive ventilation for the first few weeks or months will dilute most solvent vapors to acceptable levels. After a few months, these vapors will be largely eliminated from the home.



Formaldehyde is a more difficult proposition. Some pressed wood products emit formaldehyde for years or decades. Dilution ventilation is helpful on a daily basis, but source removal is the optimal long-term solution.



EPA indicates 100 ppb formaldehyde will cause eye and respiratory irritation in most adults. We see asthma, sinus infections, bronchitis, enlarged adenoids, sleep disorders, and headaches in clients with half that concentration in their homes. Children typically have more severe health effects than their parents.



The photo shows 141 ppb formaldehyde in an unfurnished bedroom of a new unoccupied home. We would expect formaldehyde in that home to be higher when occupants bring their own furniture and personal items. Cooking will also increase formaldehyde in the home.