On Sun, 2 Mar 2008 23:27:34 -0800 (PST), wrote:

I have a question about wood floors and possibly just wood in
general.

A few years ago I developed a weird allergy/sensitivity to being
around certain wood floor homes or establishments with lots of wood
fixtures.

I notice it most intensely when there is a sweet smell, kind of like
older wood or something (possibly mildew) The kind of smell I notice
in old churches or other old establishments. I also notice the issue
when there is a strong natural wood smell like in a cabin or
something.

I'm wondering if anyone could tell me what this could possibly be
causing the sweet smelling odor and if wood is giving off a strong
natural wood smell in a home is it possible to lock it in with a type
of finish.

I think I'm currently dealing with a mixture of both odors in the
apartment I just moved into. I'm thinking of laying some kind of
finish on the floor to possibly lock in the wood smell and getting a
air purifier that gets mold out of the air (considering the problems
are what I'm assuming they are).

I appreciate any input on the subject.


This sounds more like a dust/mold allergy than anything else. Shellac
is a good wood sealer/finish. For sealing a floor polyurethane is a
better choice. A doctor that specializes in allergies may be able to
help you.