FloorScore Certification
FloorScore® is one of the most recognized indoor air quality (IAQ) certifications for hard‑surface flooring. As more homeowners, designers, and builders focus on health and sustainability, FloorScore certification has become an important factor in flooring selection.
What FloorScore Certification Means
FloorScore® certifies that a flooring product meets strict limits for volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. Products are tested in independent laboratories under controlled conditions to ensure they meet established indoor air quality standards.
Types of Products That Can Be FloorScore Certified
- Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and plank (LVP)
- Laminate flooring
- Engineered hardwood
- Rubber flooring
- Linoleum
- Underlayments and adhesives
When these products carry the FloorScore® label, it indicates they have passed VOC emission testing.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters
Indoor air can contain higher levels of pollutants than outdoor air, especially in tightly sealed homes and buildings. Flooring can be a significant source of:
- VOC emissions
- Odors
- Chemical exposure
Sensitive groups include:
- Children
- Elderly individuals
- People with asthma, allergies, or respiratory conditions
Choosing low‑emitting flooring products can contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
How FloorScore Products Are Tested
FloorScore testing typically evaluates:
- Total VOC emissions
- Specific chemical compounds of concern
- Emission levels over time
- Compliance with California Section 01350 (a widely recognized IAQ standard)
Products that meet the criteria are allowed to carry the FloorScore® certification mark.
FloorScore vs. Other Certifications
FloorScore®
- Focus: VOC emissions from flooring and related products
- Basis: California Section 01350
- Commonly used in residential and commercial projects
GREENGUARD Gold
- Focus: VOC emissions across many product categories (furniture, finishes, etc.)
- Stricter limits for schools, healthcare, and sensitive environments
CARB Phase 2
- Focus: Formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products
- Not a full VOC standard, but important for wood‑based materials
Each certification addresses a different piece of the indoor air quality puzzle. FloorScore is specifically tailored to flooring.
Why Consumers Should Look for FloorScore Certified Products
- Improved indoor air quality
- Reduced exposure to certain VOCs
- Better suitability for sensitive individuals and environments
- Contribution to green building programs such as LEED and WELL
- Added transparency and confidence in product selection
Bottom Line
FloorScore certification helps homeowners, builders, and specifiers choose flooring that supports healthier indoor environments. As awareness of indoor air quality continues to grow, FloorScore‑certified products will remain an important part of responsible flooring design and selection.
