A Process That Lets You Breathe Easier

One of the most important and lasting aspects of a new luxury kitchen or bath is something you don’t see: the indoor air quality you will be living with for years to come.

Long before eco-friendly and green building became in-vogue phrases and practices, Neff of Chicago was adhering to strict construction principles that support its philosophy of “Fresh Air Thinking.”

Neff of Chicago selects marine-quality plywood and E1 grade particle board made with phenol-based resin, which is free of the VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) off-gassing caused by urea formaldehyde found in more commonly used resins and glues.

The Chicago-based designer also uses steel dowels instead of glues to further reduce VOC emissions. The use of fasteners also results in cabinetry that can be easily disassembled for on-site modification without damage.

A unique Acrylic Polyurethane finish that seals in VOCs is applied by skilled craftsmen at the factory using state-of-the-art equipment, not in the home by installers. The customer gets the exact color that they chose and approved, while indoor air quality is preserved.

All Neff of Chicago products are compliant with California Air Resource Board (CARB) regulations for the elimination of Formaldehyde in the manufacture of engineered woods. And, the designer is certified under the Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP), developed by the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA) to encourage industry policies and practices that benefit the environment. The ESP review process encompasses such key areas as:

• Control of air quality and emission levels
• Use of certified and sustainable materials
• Energy efficient manufacturing processes
• Waste and recycle management
• Social Stewardship

A “green” kitchen is more than the use of sustainable materials. In Neff of Chicago’s view, it entails the entire manufacturing process, and it produces a healthier environment the whole family can enjoy.