In today’s world, homeowners and businesses are becoming increasingly conscious of the impact their choices have on both their health and the environment. One area where this is particularly important is flooring, as it plays a significant role in indoor air quality. If you’ve been exploring options like Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, you might have come across two important certifications: FloorScore and GREENGUARD. But did you know that some luxury vinyl plank options come with both certifications?
In this blog, we’ll explore what it means for LVP flooring to have both FloorScore and GREENGUARD certifications, and why that makes it a top choice for health-conscious and eco-friendly consumers.
What is Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring?
Before diving into the certifications, let’s quickly cover what Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring is. LVP is a type of resilient flooring that mimics the look of natural wood or stone while offering enhanced durability and water resistance. It’s become a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces due to its affordability, aesthetic appeal, and easy maintenance.
However, while LVP flooring has many benefits, it’s important to ensure that the products you choose are safe for indoor air quality. That’s where FloorScore and GREENGUARD certifications come in.
The Importance of FloorScore Certification for LVP Flooring
FloorScore certification was developed by the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI) and Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) to test and certify flooring products for low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are chemicals that can off-gas from flooring materials and negatively affect indoor air quality.
When LVP flooring is FloorScore certified, it means that the product meets stringent VOC emission standards, ensuring that it’s safe for your home or business. This is especially important for spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, and offices, where people spend extended periods of time.
Key Benefits of FloorScore-Certified LVP:
- Healthier Indoor Air Quality: Minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals.
- Widely Recognized Standard: Accepted by leading building programs like LEED.
- Ensures Compliance: Products are tested and certified to meet state and national air quality standards.
What Does GREENGUARD Certification Add to LVP?
While FloorScore focuses primarily on flooring materials, GREENGUARD, managed by UL Environment, offers a more comprehensive approach to indoor air quality certification. GREENGUARD tests a variety of building materials, furnishings, and household products for low chemical emissions, including formaldehyde and other harmful VOCs.
There are two levels of GREENGUARD certification:
- GREENGUARD Certification: Meets basic standards for chemical emissions, ideal for residential and commercial settings.
- GREENGUARD Gold Certification: Stricter standards, ideal for sensitive environments like schools, daycares, and healthcare facilities.
Having an LVP product with GREENGUARD Gold certification is particularly valuable for those who prioritize an ultra-low-emission environment.
Key Benefits of GREENGUARD-Certified LVP:
- Comprehensive Emission Testing: GREENGUARD takes a holistic approach, testing for more chemicals and over a longer period than many other certifications.
- Healthier Indoor Environments: Aims to limit VOCs not just in flooring but in all building materials, contributing to a healthier overall indoor environment.
- Ideal for Sensitive Spaces: GREENGUARD Gold is particularly beneficial for settings like schools, healthcare facilities, and homes with children or sensitive individuals.
Why Choose LVP Flooring with Both FloorScore and GREENGUARD Certifications?
Having both FloorScore and GREENGUARD certifications ensures that your luxury vinyl plank flooring is among the safest and healthiest options available. While FloorScore ensures low VOC emissions specific to flooring, GREENGUARD takes it a step further, testing for a wider range of chemicals and applying stricter standards for sensitive environments.
Key Advantages of Dual-Certified LVP:
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Superior Air Quality Assurance: Products with both certifications guarantee exceptionally low VOC emissions, making them perfect for families, schools, hospitals, or anyone prioritizing air quality.
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Eco-Friendly Choice: Both certifications promote products manufactured in environmentally responsible ways, supporting sustainability efforts.
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Peace of Mind: Knowing that your LVP meets two of the most rigorous certification programs gives you confidence that you’re making a healthy choice for your space.
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Increased LEED Credits: For those pursuing LEED certification for green buildings, dual-certified flooring can help you earn more points for indoor environmental quality, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious builders and designers.
How to Identify Dual-Certified LVP Flooring
When shopping for luxury vinyl plank flooring, look for products that explicitly mention both FloorScore and GREENGUARD certifications. Many leading brands prominently display these logos on their packaging and websites, making it easy to verify their commitment to low VOC emissions.
Key Tips for Choosing Dual-Certified LVP:
- Check Labels: Make sure the product packaging or specification sheet lists both certifications.
- Research the Manufacturer: Leading brands like Shaw, Armstrong, and Mohawk often offer dual-certified products.
- Ask Questions: If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your flooring retailer or contractor for detailed information about the certifications.
Conclusion: A Healthier and More Sustainable Choice
By selecting luxury vinyl plank flooring with both FloorScore and GREENGUARD certifications, you’re not only investing in a beautiful, durable, and functional floor but also in the health and well-being of those who live, work, and play in your space. With dual-certified LVP, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: stylish flooring and cleaner, safer indoor air.
Looking for certified LVP flooring? Get in touch with us to explore options that meet both FloorScore and GREENGUARD standards!