Q: Christine I need advice quickly; I am about to install new flooring in our basement area but my wife and I have been experiencing breathing problems since we bought our new old house. The house dates back to 1920s and every time we are in the basement we have coughing jags. I have heard there are some hypo-allergenic solutions for flooring what do you suggest? Bob, Ontario Canada

A: Bob sounds like there may be several reasons you are experiencing coughing; it could be air quality, mould or allergies. Maybe you should hire professional help to ensure you solve the problem before new floor is installed or chosen. One of the best hypoallergenic solutions on the market today is an easy care product called Marmoleum. It’s made from natural ingredients (Linseed oil) with no VOC’s or toxins. It is warm underfoot, very durable, and the natural bactericidal properties of marmoleum prevent micro-organisms including Salmonella Typhimurium and Staphylococcus Aureus from multiplying themselves.