CS-2009 IEQc4.1: Low-Emitting Materials—Adhesives and Sealants

  • No reason not to earn this credit

    It shouldn’t cost you anything to earn this credit—it will just take a little work (the same is true for the related credit, IEQc4.2: Low-Emitting Materials—Paints and Coatings). Your first priority should be to specify only adhesives and sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. that comply with the credit’s VOC limits, and enforce those specifications on the jobsite. Research low-VOC adhesives and sealants before construction begins and provide lists of acceptable materials to contractors to help ensure that the right products are used. 

    Proactive communication on the jobsite

    To observe VOC limits on the project, maintain there proactive communication between the designer, contractor, and all subcontractors who do work inside the building. Subcontractors have to be educated about the requirements, and their contracts should require that they document their compliance.

    If you make a mistake, you can still earn the credit

    Unlike some LEED credits where only a certain percentage of the materials have to comply, this credit is all-or-nothing—all paints and coatings must comply.

    However, if a non-compliant adhesive or sealant gets used by mistake, or if you need to bend the VOC limits to meet the requirements of a warranty or fire code, you can still earn the credit following the “VOC budget process.” You’ll simply have to do some calculations to show that your extra use of VOCsA volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a carbon compound that vaporizes (becomes a gas) at normal room temperatures. VOCs contribute to air pollution directly and through atmospheric photochemical reactions (excluding carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, carbonic acid, metallic carbides and carbonates, and ammonium carbonate) to produce secondary air pollutants, principally ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate. was offset by very low use of VOCs elsewhere. You have to meet the budget for adhesives and sealants separately from paints and coatings (for IEQc4.2), though—you’re not allowed to create a combined VOC budget covering multiple IEQc4 credits.

    Multiple benefits

    Earning this credit is a key part of a construction indoor-air-quality management plan, and will help you earn another LEED point via IEQc3.2: Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan—Before Occupancy, by reducing the amount of VOCs in the air.

    Using low-VOC adhesives and sealants is not only beneficial to occupants, but can improve air quality and the health of construction workers who are constantly exposed to construction pollution.

    Verify your information

    Don’t allow the use of products that merely claim to be “low VOC.” Everyone specifying and purchasing products must actually find the VOC grams per liter (g/L) information, usually on the product’s technical data sheet or material safety data sheet, and compare that number with VOC limits listed for different uses determined by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule #1168 and Green Seal-36 for aerosol adhesives. Product sheets often provide the maximum g/L (like “<100 g/L”) rather than a specific amount. That’s okay as long as the maximum is under the allowable limit. 

    Only 20% of product cut sheets selected at random need to be uploaded to LEED Online to document this credit although it is best to keep all product cut sheets on file in case the credit is audited.

    Tenant limits for Core and Shell

    To get the full benefit of this credit, consider requiring VOC limits for tenant construction by incorporating either recommended compliant products, or recommending that tenants use compliant adhesives and sealants with specific VOC limits in a tenant guideline document (per SSc9: Tenant Design and Construction Guidelines).

  • FAQ's for IEQc4.1

    Is there a shortcut to the VOC budget method if you have just one product that is used minimally on a project?

    Yes, if you have just one non-compliant product, then you can balance it out with just one really good, low VOC product, as long as all your other products meet the requirement. For example, if you have two gallons of non-compliant adhesive that is 100 g/L over its required threshold, then you can balance it out with enough compliant product where you show you are at least 100g/l under the required threshold, thus balancing the VOC budget.

    How is VOC % less water determined for aerosol adhesives?

    This is usually found on a product cut sheet or MSDS1. Material safety data sheets (MSDS) are detailed, written instructions documenting a method to achieve uniformity of performance. 2. A report that manufacturers of most products are required to make available to installers and purchasers, informing them of product information on chemicals, chemical compounds, and chemical mixtures, the existence of potentially hazardous ingredients, and providing instructions for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of products. If you cannot find the information, contact the manufacturer or technical services for the product and they should be able to provide this number for you. The method for dermining this is explained in SCAQMD Method 305-9, Determination of (VOC) In Aerosol Applications.

    Do products applied to the weather barrier need to comply with VOC thresholds?

    GBCI has issued a clarification that the actual barrier does not need to comply with this credit. Any applied products that are "touched by the indoor air" would need to be considered for IEQc4.1, but if they fall outside of this they can be excluded.

    Do grout and caulking need to be included, and if so, what is the application category?

    Yes, grout and caulking need to be included. There is no specific category for them, however. Projects have successfully used ceramic tile adhesive—VOC limit 65g/l—and Architectural Sealant—VOC limit 250 g/l—successfully, the latter being especially appropriate if you are using a product other than ceramic tiles. Since most mortars, grouts, and thinsets are largely cementitious, with inherently low VOC content, they will comply under most categories, anyway. Choose a logical category and explain it in a narrative if necessary.

    How do I determine what application my product falls under?

    SCAQMD Rule 1168 includes definitions of categories that can be helpful in determining where and how your product should be categorized to determine corresponding VOC thresholds.


    What are the adhesives and sealants to be included in the documentation?

    All adhesives and sealants used onsite within the weather barrier need to be included. This should address general construction adhesives, flooring adhesives, fire-stopping sealants, caulking, duct sealants, plumbing adhesives and cove base adhesives.

    Our project didn't use some common adhesive types, and our LEED reviewer asked about this. Are we supposed to justify not using certain adhesives in our documentation?

    No, but it might not hurt. Items commonly included in the credit are general construction adhesives, flooring adhesives, fire-stopping sealants, caulking, duct sealants, plumbing adhesives, and cove base adhesives. If your project doesn't report using one or more of these, your LEED reviewer might ask you to verify your list of documented items, to check that something wasn't inadvertently omitted. In LEEDuser's opinion, a brief narrative noting what you used and verifying that you're conscious of the fact that some common items weren't used might anticipate and answer this type of review comment.

Legend

  • Best Practices
  • Gotcha
  • Action Steps
  • Cost Tip

Schematic Design

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  • There is no reason not to earn this credit, as long as you are willing to take a bit of extra time to specify compliant products, and make sure that only those products are used on the jobsite.

Design Development

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  • construction work applying adhesivesLow-VOC adhesives benefit both the project and construction workers. Photo – ITW TACC Start researching and selecting compliant low-VOC adhesives and sealants needed for the project.

  • First check the allowable VOC levels for each product type you are using – see the summary of VOC limits in the Low-Emitting Material Limits document (see Documentation Toolkit) and then make sure the products specified do not exceed those limits.  

  • Keep VOC requirements in mind when selecting all materials used indoors. Watch out for warranty restrictions that call for use of a manufacturer-specified adhesive or sealant (which may or may not comply). 

  • Finding adhesives and sealants that are compliant with the credit requirements may sometimes take a little extra time, but is rarely a problem.

Construction Documents

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  • Make sure low-emitting requirements have been integrated in construction specifications. Products must be at or below the recommended VOC limits. VOC levels can be found on a product’s MSDS or technical data sheet and are measured in grams per liter (g/L).

  • Guidance on incorporating LEED specifications into construction documents, along with samples, is available from MasterSpec and from the Whole Building Design Guide (see Resources).

  • Identifying VOC requirements directly on the drawings as well as in the specs is a good way to remind the contractor and subcontractors of the requirements, but be careful to make sure the information is consistent between the drawings and the specs. 

  • It is best to require subcontractors to supply all LEED-required VOC information on the products they purchase at the time they are submitting products for approval. This way contractors do not wait until the end of construction to supply information, and you have the opportunity to review products for LEED compliance before products are purchased.

  • Specify compliant products by brand name whenever possible. It is best to distribute a list of acceptable products and the VOC limit chart from the LEED rating system at the contractor and subcontractor orientation meetings. 

  • Low-emitting products can be part of a more comprehensive IAQ management plan, as required for IEQc3.1: Construction Indoor Air Quality Plan—During Construction. A comprehensive IAQ plan covers all adhesives, sealants, paint, coatings, composite materials, and overall construction best practices protecting air quality.  

  • Achieving this credit can also help achieve IEQc3.2: Construction IAQ Management Plan—Before Occupancy, if your project pursues the air-testing option for this credit. Using low-VOC products improves your odds of passing the air quality tests. 

  • Only products installed within the weather barrier need to comply with VOC limits, according to the credit requirements. For adhesives and sealants that are part of the weather barrier, the LEED requirements are ambiguous, so it is best to err on the side of caution and use low-VOC products. Remember that the intention of the credit is to make sure all adhesives and sealants that have the potential to interact with indoor air are compliant. 

  • Products assembled off-site or factory-finished are exempt from this credit, because it is assumed that VOCs have off gassed before arriving at the site.

  • Using low-emitting adhesives and sealants is a no-cost measure.  

  • Some water-based adhesives and sealants that are credit-compliant may not be as strong as non-water-based adhesives and sealants. However, this is usually not a problem, as adhesive and sealants are often stronger than they need to be. 

  • Some contractors might charge a premium for implementing and documenting this credit but, in general, costs should be minor or nonexistent as more firms start incorporating these as standard best practices. 

  • Hiring construction teams with LEED experience is helpful, as is reviewing LEED requirements and responsibilities with the contractor during the bidding process. Construction teams without LEED experience can be successful with this credit, but will require more training and a closer eye on quality control to make sure compliant materials are used and that items are documented correctly.  

  • Implementing an IAQ plan and use of low-emitting materials demands accountability. It is best if subcontractors are contractually required to implement their parts of the IAQ plan. 

Construction

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  • Preparation Before Construction Begins

  • The general contractor (GC) should be oriented to all LEED-related issues, including IAQ management, low-emitting materials, environmental material tracking tools, construction waste management, and so on. A list of acceptable products for each use type, and the list of VOC limits, should be provided to aid subcontractors in product selection. 

  • The GC should hold orientation meetings with the subcontractors to review the LEED responsibilities related specifically to their trades. This exercise helps to build trust and is crucial for obtaining buy-in from all participants in the process.

  • Coordination and communication among the GC, subcontractors and design team early in the process can minimize scheduling delays and pushback from subcontractors.

  • Give the GC and subcontractors the following tools to help them track materials data for all MR and IEQ credits. (See the Documentation Toolkit for access.)

    • Materials Calculator:  This is a master tracking spreadsheet that the GC can use internally to compile product information received from the subcontractors. The spreadsheet tracks LEED values across multiple LEED MR and IEQ credits.
    • Environmental Materials Reporting Form: This is a material tracking form that helps subcontractors record the environmental values for products they purchase. This can be distributed to each trade subcontractor and submitted to the GC for filing. 
    • Low-Emitting Materials Reporting Form: This is a VOC tracking sheet that helps subcontractors record the low-emitting qualities of the products they purchase and can be distributed to each trade subcontractor and submitted to the GC for filing.
    • Low-Emitting Material Limits: These tables, found with each credit here on LEEDuser, summarize the maximum VOC limits for different types of adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings, composite wood, and flooring products. When subcontractors search for low-emitting products, they should consult these charts.

  • Research compliant, low-emitting products before construction begins. If product decisions are made after construction begins, with less time to carefully review data sheets, there is a much greater risk of using a non-compliant product. 

  • There is some room for interpretation in VOC limits, because the limits are determined by product usage and product type. For example, cove-base adhesives have a VOC limit of 50 g/L, and a multipurpose construction adhesive has a VOC limit of 70 g/L. If you use a multipurpose adhesive on a cove base, it is up to you whether to use either 50 g/L or 70 g/L as your VOC limit. Erring on the side of caution with a lower limit is generally a good idea.

  • When researching low-emitting products, double-check that the manufacturer’s information does not use misleading language. A common example is a product cut sheet that uses the term “low-emitting” without providing a specific VOC g/L value. Many cut sheets give a maximum value of, for example, VOC < 100g/L. That’s fine as long as 100 g/L meets the criteria for that product—just enter 100 g/L VOC amount for LEED documentation.

  • It is common for an MSDS to list the chemical contents of a product without giving an overall VOC g/L number. You’ll need to contact the manufacturer or check cut sheets to get the total VOC number. (See the Documentation Toolkit for a sample cut sheet.)

  • Obtain VOC levels, in writing, from the manufacturer, for the actual products used on the project—don’t rely on VOC quotes given over the phone.

  • The VOC value on an MSDS can be unreliable when several different products are listed on one sheet. Get clarification from the manufacturer on the actual VOC content of the product you are using.

  • The GC should be aware of any warranty issues that may exist if alternative adhesives or sealants are used. For example, a carpet company’s warranty may require a certain adhesive that does not meet the VOC requirements. To keep the warranty valid, use the adhesive or sealant specified in the warranty and use the VOC budget method to show a weighted average VOC compliance, or use carpet from a company that offers a low-VOC option.

  • If noncompliant materials are used onsite accidentally, or due to a warranty or other issue, you can use the VOC budget method. This method compares the total amount of VOCs (in grams per liter) used in the design case to the total amount of VOCs that would have been used if every product exactly met LEED VOC allowances. The calculation must be determined for adhesives and sealants separately from paints and coatings. For example, it won’t necessarily help your case to use low-VOC paints but also some high-VOC sealants. (See the compliance example below for adhesives and sealants.)

  • Using the VOC budget method is usually successful, but can be time-consuming to document.

  • During Construction

  • Throughout construction, the GC should collect material safety data sheets (MSDS) from subcontractors and completed VOC tracking forms for all products used onsite associated with this credit.

  • Assign someone to be responsible for inputting the subcontractors’ tracking forms into the master spreadsheet. A LEED consultant or an administrative assistant in the GC’s office may be the best choice for this role. 

  • Review subcontractor product suggestions ahead of time to avoid the purchase of inappropriate materials and eliminate the need for costly change orders.

  • Streamline documentation and research by keeping a master spreadsheet of all the items being tracked for each material across MR and IEQ credits. For example, you may need to ask the millworker for regional information for MRc5, certified wood information for MRc6, and information about adhesives installed on sight for IEQc4.1. If one spreadsheet collects all the data, it can streamline your documentation, associated research, and help with quality control. (See the Materials Calculator in the Documentation Toolkit.)

  • A master spreadsheet helps ease information collection for subcontractors, giving them a road map of exactly what types of information to collect for each product.  

  • The GC functions as the overall quality assurance provider for this credit. Responsibilities include conducting weekly reviews of subcontractor product safety data sheets and tracking forms, as well as spot checks in dumpsters to determine which products are actually being used.

  • Post signs at the construction site that reminds subcontractors to follow LEED requirements for low-VOC products. (See Documentation Toolkit for sample signs.) 

  • Schedule the application of adhesives and sealants so that offgassing does not contaminate other absorptive materials. This is required if projects are attempting IEQc3.1: Construction Indoor Air Quality Plan—During Construction. For example, do not store or install acoustic ceiling tile before flooring and wall adhesives are put down, because ceiling tiles will absorb the off-gassing of paint and floor adhesives and contaminate the air over a longer time period.

  • It is usually a good idea to do a “mini air flush” (if your project is not attempting IEQc3.2) before occupancy to help remove any lingering VOCs from the construction process. This can be as simple as putting industrial sized fans in the window and pumping in fresh air overnight or running the HVAC exhaust on high for a few days. (See IEQc3.2: Construction Indoor Air Quality Plan—Before Occupancy if the team wants to do a full flush-out for an additional LEED point.)

  • Transfer all the data collected in the master material tracking spreadsheet to the LEED Online form and upload the product cut sheets.

Operations & Maintenance

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  • Provide the owner with a list of compliant, low-emitting adhesives and sealants used on the project so that O&M staff can use these products for future renovations.

  • USGBC

    Excerpted from LEED 2009 for Core and Shell Development

    COPYRIGHT © 2009 BY THE U.S. GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

    IEQ Credit 4.1: Low-emitting materials - adhesives and sealants

    1 Point

    Intent

    To reduce the quantity of indoor air contaminants that are odorous, irritating and/or harmful to the comfort and well-being of installers and occupants.

    Requirements

    All adhesives and sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. used on the interior of the building (i.e., inside of the weatherproofing system and applied on-site) must comply with the following requirements as applicable to the project scope1:

    • Adhesives, Sealants and Sealant Primers must comply with South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule #1168. Volatile organic compound (VOC) limits listed in the table below correspond to an effective date of July 1, 2005 and rule amendment date of January 7, 2005.

      Architectural Applications VOC Limit

      (g/L less water)

      		 Specialty Applications VOC Limit

      (g/L less water)
      Indoor carpet adhesives 50 PVC welding 510
      Carpet pad adhesives 50 CPVC welding 490
      Wood flooring adhesives 100 ABS welding 325
      Rubber floor adhesives 60 Plastic cement welding 250
      Subfloor adhesives 50 Adhesive primer for plastic 550
      Ceramic tile adhesives 65 Contact adhesive 80
      VCT and asphalt adhesives 50 Special purpose contact adhesive 250
      Drywall and panel adhesives 50 Structural wood member adhesive 140
      Cove base adhesives 50 Sheet applied rubber lining operations 850
      Multipurpose construction adhesives 70 Top and trim adhesive 250
      Structural glazing adhesives 100
      Substrate Specific Applications VOC Limit

      (g/L less water)

      		 Sealants VOC Limit

      (g/L less water)
      Metal to metal 30 Architectural 250
      Plastic foams 50 Roadway 250
      Porous material (except wood) 50 Other 420
      Wood 30
      Fiberglass 80
      Sealant Primers VOC Limit (g/L less water)
      Architectural, nonporous 250
      Architectural, porous 775
      Other 750
      This table excludes adhesives and sealants integral to the water-proofing system or that are not building related.


    • Aerosol Adhesives must comply with Green Seal Standard for Commercial Adhesives GS-36 requirements in

      effect on October 19, 2000.

      Aerosol Adhesives VOC weight (g/L minus water)
      General purpose mist spray 65% VOCsA volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a carbon compound that vaporizes (becomes a gas) at normal room temperatures. VOCs contribute to air pollution directly and through atmospheric photochemical reactions (excluding carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, carbonic acid, metallic carbides and carbonates, and ammonium carbonate) to produce secondary air pollutants, principally ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate. by weight
      General purpose web spray 55% VOCs by weight
      Special purpose aerosol adhesives (all types) 70% VOCs by weight



    Potential Technologies & Strategies

    Specify low-VOC materials in construction documents. Ensure that VOC limits are clearly stated in each section of the specifications where adhesives and sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. are addressed. Common products to evaluate include general construction adhesives, flooring adhesives, fire-stopping sealants, caulking, duct sealants, plumbing adhesives and cove base adhesives. Review product cut sheets, material safety data (MSD) sheets, signed attestations or other official literature from the manufacturer clearly identifying the VOC contents or compliance with referenced standards.

Publications

Specifying LEED Requirements from ARCOM MasterSpec

Guidance and sample language on incorporating VOC limits into Specifications.

South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1168 South Coast Air Quality Management District

Outline of Rule 1168 for adhesive and sealant applications.

Web Tools

USGBC’s LEED Resources page

Includes additional resources and technical information.

Organizations

Green Seal Standard 11 (GS–11)

Green Seal is an independent, nonprofit organization that strives to achieve a healthier and cleaner environment by identifying and promoting products and services that cause less toxic pollution and waste, conserve resources and habitats, and minimize global warming and ozone depletion. GS–36 sets VOC limits for commercial adhesives. 

Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG) — Federal Green Construction Guide for Specifiers

Support on incorporating LEED requirements into specifications. 

Materials Calculator

Teams can use this tool to track all materials across various MR and IEQ credits. It helps teams develop a roadmap of what information needs to be tracked for different products. It can also be used early on to create the baseline budget and ensure the products that are being used will apply to the various credit thresholds.

Environmental Materials Reporting Form

This is a materials tracking form that helps subcontractors record the environmental values of products they purchase. This can be distributed to each trade subcontractor and submitted to the GC for filing.

Letter to Contractor for MR and IEQ Credits

Use a letter like this sample to orient the contractor to their responsibilities for all MR and IEQ credits. This letter is an introduction that can be customized for the credits your project is pursuing.

Low-Emitting Materials Reporting Form

This is a VOC tracking sheet that helps subcontractors record the low-emitting qualities of the products they purchase and can be distributed to each trade subcontractor and submitted to the GC for filing. Use it specifically for earning low-emitting materials credits, but in conjunction with documentation for MR credits.

Product Cut Sheets

Look to product cut sheets for information on the VOC content of adhesives and sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid.. The example here clearly displays information needed for documentation.

Jobsite Signs

Products with VOC content not meeting credit requirements for VOC levels can inadvertently get used on the jobsite. A sign like this sample helps remind subcontractors and construction workers of their responsibilities.

Construction Submittal

HardhatDocumentation for this credit is part of the Construction Phase submittal.

67 Comments

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Joanna Bloniewska Architect Skanska
Mar 11 2013
Guest
22 Thumbs Up

Fire-stopping sealant

How would you qualify fire-stopping sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid.? What VOC limit would you apply? I can't find it in SCAQMD rule 1168.

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John-David Hutchison, LEED AP BD+C, PMP Sustainability Consultant, CSV Architects Mar 11 2013 LEEDuser Expert 156 Thumbs Up

I have successfully entered Fire-Stopping sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. as Architectural Sealants-250 g/l.

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Michael E. Edmonds-Bauer Edmonds International
Feb 13 2013
LEEDuser Member
76 Thumbs Up

Single ply roof membrane

In a greenroof application, if a single ply roof is use (we called it a "liner"), does it have to comply with the 450 g/L of VOC limit?

Techically, it is on top of the building on the outside. And it is a waterproofing membrane. Since the "interior of a building" is defined as everything inside the waterproofing system we consider this product does not need to be compliant with the 450 g/L limit. Are we correct?

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Mar 21 2013 LEEDuser Moderator

Michael, this comment over on the NC forum might shed some light.

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Michael E. Edmonds-Bauer Edmonds International
Jan 19 2013
LEEDuser Member
76 Thumbs Up

Sealant for granite/marble

In a project we are working on they will speficy granite floors and a sealant will be needed to be applied to it.

Would architectural sealant be the best fit for this?

What falls into the category of an "architectural" sealant?

Thank you.

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Jan 31 2013 LEEDuser Moderator

Michael, seems like "Substrate specific - porous" to me. Checking the #1168 definitions (see Resources), it seems like Architectural sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. is definitely not the right fit.

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Michael E. Edmonds-Bauer Edmonds International Feb 13 2013 LEEDuser Member 76 Thumbs Up

Thank you Tristan!!

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Michael E. Edmonds-Bauer Edmonds International
Jan 11 2013
LEEDuser Member
76 Thumbs Up

Grout

Does anybody know what is the VOC content for grout?

By grout I mean the "paste" that goes betwenn two ceramic tiles, like the one in a restroom. Would it be the same as the ceramic tile adhesive or is there any specific requirement for a grout?

Thank you very much.

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Emily Catacchio Sustainability Specialist, Wight and Company Jan 14 2013 LEEDuser Moderator

Michael,

I answered this question on the CI page. You can see the answer in the FAQ above also.

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Michael E. Edmonds-Bauer Edmonds International Jan 19 2013 LEEDuser Member 76 Thumbs Up

Thank you Emily, I just saw it (architectural sealant and has to be a 250 g/L limit).

What about the Ceramic tile adhesive? In a project we are working on they want to use a mixture of cement, sand and water, instead of an actual adhesive. I consider this mixture excempt from VOC requirements since concrete is a mineral and it has no VOC (the cement will have no additive added). Would you agree??

Thyank you Emily.

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Michael E. Edmonds-Bauer Edmonds International
Sep 12 2012
LEEDuser Member
76 Thumbs Up

VOC content for concret additive (curing enhancer)

Our project has a milan wall wich has some water filtrations, a mortar made out of cement and an additive is being used to seal these filtrations.

The additive consists on a powder added to the concrete and it is used to accelerate the concrete's curing process, that's the only thin the additive does to the concrete mixture.

Since it is an additive that at the end is "fixed" in the concrete, does it have to comply with any certain VOC limits?

It is not a sealant, it just helps the concrete cure faster.

Any information will be appreciated.

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Nov 24 2012 LEEDuser Moderator

Michael, I'd say that a concrete additive is not expected to come under examination under this credit.

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John-David Hutchison, LEED AP BD+C, PMP Sustainability Consultant, CSV Architects Nov 26 2012 LEEDuser Expert 156 Thumbs Up

The product you are looking at is referenced
in 1113 as a Concrete Curing Compound max 350 g/l.

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Michael E. Edmonds-Bauer Edmonds International Jan 02 2013 LEEDuser Member 76 Thumbs Up

John, one more question.

What about a waterproof additive? This is a powder that is mixed with the concrete mixture and gives it waterproofing properties.

It is not a coating so it has no primer or anything, like I mentioned, it is just a powder added to the concrete.

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Jan 31 2013 LEEDuser Moderator

Michael, I'd either say "Other" or I would consider it a concrete admixture, and thus out of the scope of this credit.

 

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Michael E. Edmonds-Bauer Edmonds International Mar 23 2013 LEEDuser Member 76 Thumbs Up

Thank you very much Tristan.

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Joanna Bloniewska Architect Skanska
Jul 17 2012
Guest
22 Thumbs Up

Adhesive for insulation instalation

How would you qualify an adhesive for insulation instalation? I am not sure which VOC limit is the most appropriate.

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Yetsuh Frank Director, YR&G sustainability consulting, education and analysis Jul 17 2012 LEEDuser Expert 281 Thumbs Up

Joanna,
I would probably consider this a contact adhesive. But I suggest you go through the SCAQMD Rule 1168 document- there are almost 100 definitions of adhesives and sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. and there might be something that speaks directly to the product in question.

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Joanna Bloniewska Architect Skanska
Jul 02 2012
Guest
22 Thumbs Up

Cementitious tile adhesive

Does cementitious tile adhesive need to comply with VOC requirements of this credit? The adhesive is purchased as a dry powder and mixed on site by adding water.
May I ask for your suggestions?

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Emily Catacchio Sustainability Specialist, Wight and Company Jul 13 2012 LEEDuser Moderator

Yes, everything applied on-site inside the weather barrier needs to meet this credit. Often this type of product has zero VOCsA volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a carbon compound that vaporizes (becomes a gas) at normal room temperatures. VOCs contribute to air pollution directly and through atmospheric photochemical reactions (excluding carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, carbonic acid, metallic carbides and carbonates, and ammonium carbonate) to produce secondary air pollutants, principally ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate., you just need to document it with an MSDS1. Material safety data sheets (MSDS) are detailed, written instructions documenting a method to achieve uniformity of performance. 2. A report that manufacturers of most products are required to make available to installers and purchasers, informing them of product information on chemicals, chemical compounds, and chemical mixtures, the existence of potentially hazardous ingredients, and providing instructions for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of products or manufacturer letter.

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Nadia Ayala Architect / LEED AP BD+C, AMP Proyectos México Aug 17 2012 LEEDuser Member 532 Thumbs Up

Hello,

Emily, if the product is dry powder and the VOC concentration data the manufacturer gives us is in ppmParts per million. measured in a 100gr sample, is it logic to calculate a gr/kg instead of gr/l value and use it as equivalents? Since the material is not in liquid presentation, we don't know how to approach this.

Thank you for your insights.

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Emily Catacchio Sustainability Specialist, Wight and Company Aug 26 2012 LEEDuser Moderator

Nadia,

I haven't submitted any powder based products for this credit, so I'm not sure. However I have known GBCI to be pretty strick with their measurement requirements. What kind of a product is it? Do you mix it with something prior to application?

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Nadia Ayala Architect / LEED AP BD+C, AMP Proyectos México Aug 27 2012 LEEDuser Member 532 Thumbs Up

Hi Emily,

Thank you for your reply. It's the same kind of product that Joanna mentioned above. You mix it with plain water, (4 liters for a 20 kilogram bag). The manufacturer already gave us a letterhead description of the product stating that no VOC's are present in it. So I guess we should submit it that way, right?

Thanks.

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Alicja Florczak Skanska
Jun 05 2012
LEEDuser Member
516 Thumbs Up

Adhesive for raised floors

I have a problem with qualifying an adhesive for raised floors systems and finding the appropriate VOC limit. The adhesive is used to stabilize pedestals to concrete slab. Can it be Contact Adhesive with 80g/L VOC limit?

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Petr Lhoták Technologist, Sustainability Consultant, Skanska Czech Republic Jun 05 2012 Guest 1048 Thumbs Up

Are those pedestals made of metal? If so, I think it could be "special purpose contact adhesive" with limit 250g/L as per SCAQMD Rule 1168 definition:

"SPECIAL PURPOSE CONTACT ADHESIVE is a contact adhesive that is used to bond all of the following substrates to any surface: melamine covered board, metal, unsupported vinyl, Teflon, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, rubber and wood veneer 1/16 inch or less in
thickness."

Can anyone confirm please?

Petr

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Alicja Florczak Skanska Jun 05 2012 LEEDuser Member 516 Thumbs Up

Yes, pedestals are made of metal. Thank you for your advice, sounds appropriate.

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Michael Tyre
Apr 25 2012
LEEDuser Member
14 Thumbs Up

Spray Foam Insulation

I recently completed a building that is to be certified under the LEED Core & Shell program. The building was literally a 'shell' - no interior finishes to speak of. We did spray foam insulation on the inside of the exposed stud cavity. The insulation was a low-VOC product. My questions is under what category (sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid., adhesives, etc.) should I categorize this material in my LEED credit template?

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Aug 15 2012 LEEDuser Moderator

Michael, I don't think spray foam is intended to be categorized in this credit at all. If you wanted to go for Schools IEQc4.6 as an innovation approach under IDc1, it could be categorized under ceiling and wall systems.

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Citlali Mora Bello Architect, LEED Green Associate SYASA - México
Apr 17 2012
LEEDuser Member
1574 Thumbs Up

Acrylic masonry sealer

We have a product that is an "acrylic masonry sealer" with a VOC content of 81 gr/lt.

I was checking the reference guide to find out about compliance with the credit requirements but I don't find anything similar to a acrylic masonry sealer on EQc4.1.

Will this be considered an architectural sealant?

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Yetsuh Frank Director, YR&G sustainability consulting, education and analysis Jul 17 2012 LEEDuser Expert 281 Thumbs Up

David, If it is exterior masonry than it is not included for purposes of this credit since it is outboard of the waterproofing membrane.

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Yasir Nurrahman Mr. Yasir PT. Indonesia Environment Consultant
Nov 24 2011
LEEDuser Member
202 Thumbs Up

Silicone sealant for glass block installation

Dear all,

Does the silicone sealant used for the glass block installation need to comply with the maximum VOC requirements of this credit? if it does, it includes in which type of adhesive, is it structural glazing or special purpose contact adhesive or what? please comments on this.

Many thanks,

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Emily Catacchio Sustainability Specialist, Wight and Company Nov 26 2011 LEEDuser Moderator

Is the sealant inside of the weatherproofing system and applied on-site? If so, then it does need comply. I don't have experience with this particular product, so perhaps someone else knows where this would fall?

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Yasir Nurrahman Mr. Yasir, PT. Indonesia Environment Consultant Nov 29 2011 LEEDuser Member 202 Thumbs Up

I don't know the meaning of inside the weatherproofing system, but the silicone sealant will be applied on site and it will used inside and outside of the building (glass block installed on wall, between indoor and outdoor)

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Emily Catacchio Sustainability Specialist, Wight and Company Nov 30 2011 LEEDuser Moderator

Inside the weatherproofing system means within the space people will be occupying, inside the water, vapor, or air barrier(s). So this would qualify as inside the weatherproofing system. Thus I would say it does need to comply with the VOC regulations, but I'm still unsure which category it would fall under.

Anyone else?

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Petr Lhoták Technologist, Sustainability Consultant, Skanska Czech Republic Dec 01 2011 Guest 1048 Thumbs Up

If it looks like this:
http://www.ceskestavby.cz/clanky/luxfery-ktere-izoluji-teplo-18928.html

I'd say it can/should be considered "Multipurpose construction adhesive" with limit 70g/L. Can anybody confirm?

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Dec 18 2011 LEEDuser Moderator

Petr, I would say that the adhesive there is part of the weatherproofing system, and the VOC level you quote seems appropriate.

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Nicolas Carbone Architect. LEED Green Assoc. IDIEM
Nov 07 2011
Guest
57 Thumbs Up

LEED Assessor & VOC Certification at the same Institution

Hi there:
I work at an institution member of the USGBC that offers several services among LEED certification.Some of this services include assesing projects in order to provide guidance through LEED certification process. Another service offered is VOC Testing and VOC Analysis to comply with LEED and other certifications in the building industry.

Is it possible to upload some documentation that indicates low VOC Content for a particular project, if the certification and testing laboratory that signs the low VOC documentation depends directly on the LEED assesor institution?

Thanks and regards

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Nov 07 2011 LEEDuser Moderator

Nicolas, I am not aware of any USGBC or LEED policy that would prevent this, or cause problems for a project using these services.

If I were paying for these services I would want to think it through carefully and check up on this provider to make sure I am getting what I'm paying for.

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Petr Lhoták Technologist, Sustainability Consultant Skanska Czech Republic
Sep 13 2011
Guest
1048 Thumbs Up

Documenting VOC content in products

Hi everybody... again.
Does anybody know if manufacturers' letters are accepted as proper documents to proof VOC levels? I know, that in submittal templates there is listed a "letter" option.
We have some documents in which manufacturer has stated the level of VOC according to SCAQMD 1168 or Green Seal.
Actually, how is a compliant product for a VOC budget method defined? Officially: "SPECIFIC_PRODUCTS that are used inside weatherproofing system must not exceed the VOC content limits established in SCAQMD/GS."
So according to information in the reference guide and submittal templates, this means that manufacturer's declaration of VOC content in a form of letter should be sufficient. MSDS1. Material safety data sheets (MSDS) are detailed, written instructions documenting a method to achieve uniformity of performance. 2. A report that manufacturers of most products are required to make available to installers and purchasers, informing them of product information on chemicals, chemical compounds, and chemical mixtures, the existence of potentially hazardous ingredients, and providing instructions for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of products are definitely better, but manufacturers do not declare the VOC content for all their products in MSDSs, especially if it does not contain any VOCsA volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a carbon compound that vaporizes (becomes a gas) at normal room temperatures. VOCs contribute to air pollution directly and through atmospheric photochemical reactions (excluding carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, carbonic acid, metallic carbides and carbonates, and ammonium carbonate) to produce secondary air pollutants, principally ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate.. Can anybody confirm please?

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Nov 07 2011 LEEDuser Moderator

Petr, a letter from the manufacturer giving the value is sufficient.

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Citlali Mora Bello Architect, LEED Green Associate, SYASA - México Apr 17 2012 LEEDuser Member 1574 Thumbs Up

Does this letter need to state what testing method was used?

Or just saying a product XYZ has xxx gr/lt of voc is enough?

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Petr Lhoták Technologist, Sustainability Consultant Skanska Czech Republic
Aug 15 2011
Guest
1048 Thumbs Up

Asphalt vapor barrier on roof

How do you see the use of hot air/flame applied bituminous sheets as a vapor barrier on roofs regarding VOC? Which category should I use? Or should I even count it to meet the compliance with this credit?
It is not a part of primary waterproofing system, but maybe it can be considered a secondary waterproofing system. Does the addenda to the ref. guide exclude this as well as singly-ply roof membranes?

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Yetsuh Frank Director, YR&G sustainability consulting, education and analysis Jul 17 2012 LEEDuser Expert 281 Thumbs Up

Petr, I think this material is excluded because it is not part of the interior. See the note above regarding whether a material "touched by air." From your description it sounds like this is more properly understood to be part of the exterior envelope, not the interior- which is the focus of this credit.

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Omar Katanani
Jul 26 2011
LEEDuser Member
5153 Thumbs Up

Ready Mixed Mortar

Dear all,

Does "ready mixed mortar" need to comply with the maximum VOC requirements of this credit? The definition of the material is the following:

Material XYZ "is a ready mixed mortar based on mineral bonding agent used for preparing cement based surfaces before rendering. It improves the adhesion of the new plaster, cement & gypsum based."

I am not too sure we need to worry about this for this credit. Any suggestions?

Many thanks,

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Nov 21 2011 LEEDuser Moderator

George, cementitious materials are not within he scope of this credit.

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Andressa Baldi Aug 15 2012 Guest 14 Thumbs Up

Hello Tristan,
I am very confused. Does your answer apply to tile adhesives, joint grouts, grouts, screeds, plasters, rendering, etc? I am often being asked to declare VOC content of cementitious mortars (ready mixed). For me (representing a Mortar Producer) there is no need, since there are no organic compound suitable to be volatile into the composition of the product. Most of my client do not accept this statement. How can I prove based on LEED manuals/rules that those kind of products does not need VOC measurements?

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Yetsuh Frank Director, YR&G sustainability consulting, education and analysis Aug 15 2012 LEEDuser Expert 281 Thumbs Up

I think what Tristan means is this: a material that is composed of inert, mineral-based materials is not within the scope of this credit. An example would be a traditional grout mix of ordinary portland cement, lime, sand and water.

Most mortar and grout products sold these days have a much more complicated list of ingredients. For purposes of this credit we typically define things like ready mix mortars by what they are adhering. So if the ready mix mortar is being used to set ceramic tile we make sure the product meets the VOC standard for ceramic tile adhesive. There are many low and zero-VOC products of this type available.

Anyone concerned about which category a product fits into should look in the 1168 document itself where there are roughly 100 definitions of different classes of materials.

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Jee Woong Shin CEO EAN Technology Co.,Ltd.
Jun 20 2011
LEEDuser Member
134 Thumbs Up

Is TVOC in lieu of VOC acceptable?

I have a test result report that only shows TVOCThe sum or total of all volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from a product or measured in a space under certain defined conditions. contents value. With this information, can I get this Credit?

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Yetsuh Frank Director, YR&G sustainability consulting, education and analysis Jul 17 2012 LEEDuser Expert 281 Thumbs Up

Jee- Sorry for the late response. Unfortunately, you will need to ask the manufacturer to provide the VOC content in grams per liter, less water. Most have no trouble providing this information. If you have already installed something and it does not meet the requirements you may have to use the total budget method to demonstrate that you have achieved this credit.

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Alessio Zampaglione Architects StudioAZA
Jun 13 2011
LEEDuser Member
223 Thumbs Up

VOC limits declaration for European Materials

Can someone tell me some informations about using materials with VOC limits tested with testing method other than SCAQMD? for example like GEV - EMICODE E1? Does anyone have experience with VOC content declaration under LEED 2009 for C&S -IEQ c4? I'm looking for MAPEI and similar brand materials which use European test method and I would like to Know if their use is allowed under LEED 2009.

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Reinhard Oppl Director VOC Testing, Eurofins Product Testing A/S Jun 13 2011 Guest 1353 Thumbs Up

LEED Italy requires VOC emissions to be in compliance with EMICODE EC1, no VOC content limit apply there. Any other LEED system requires VOC content limits that were taken from greater Los Angeles Basin regulation "SCAQMD". Up to now, low VOC emissions do not help there. But any product that is not only tested, but also licensed by GEV as being EMICODE EC1 will contain maximum 0,5% solvents. Even though test and calculation procedures differ from SCAQMD, in most cases this will translate into compliance with LEED and SCAQMD limit values for adhesives and sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid.. Hoping this helps, else read more here: www.eurofins.com/leed-adhesives-sealants.

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Petr Lhoták Technologist, Sustainability Consultant, Skanska Czech Republic Jun 17 2011 Guest 1048 Thumbs Up

Hi Alessio.
So far I didn't get far enough. I'm still looking for positive information regarding this issue. According to my opinion, if your project is going to be certified in LEED Italy certification system, then it requires compliance with EMICODE EC1, and not SCQAMD. So you should be fine with Mapei.
I'm still wondering about the possibility of accepting EMICODE in other countries as well...

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Alessio Zampaglione Architects, StudioAZA Jun 20 2011 LEEDuser Member 223 Thumbs Up

Thanks Petr,
our project is in Italy but we are following the Leed Core & Shell v.3 on USGBC, because actually we don't have in italy this version on rating system. Anyway if you find more information please let me know.
A

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Distretto Tecnologico Trentino scarl Habitech LEED Services in Europe - Founding Member of GBC Italia, Habitech-Distretto Tecnologico Trentino Jun 21 2011 LEEDuser Member 687 Thumbs Up

Ciao Alessio.
I will reply you in English, also if we are italians.
This is a big issue and in these years we have discussed a lot with the manufacturers...LEED US asks for SCAQMD and not for the European standards as LEED Italia does, so for our projects registered under LEED US we should follow SCAQMD to be absolute certain of the compliance with the credit.
Moreover, there are some EU manufacturers that declare this compliance.

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Reinhard Oppl Director VOC Testing, Eurofins Product Testing A/S Jun 21 2011 Guest 1353 Thumbs Up

You describe the situation as also I understand it. But I want to add that SCAQMD is using very bad test method (not suitable for many modern water-borne or 2-component products - you may even receive VOC content less than 0 mg/m³ with these test methods!), and it uses a strange calculation formula, looking only at the non-water portion of a product. Last draft of LEED 2012 (as of early this year) therefore will accept EU Decopaint Directive test results and limit values as equivalent. Let us see how the final version of LEED 2012 will look like. But this may not help you right today, I am afraid.

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Alessio Zampaglione Architects, StudioAZA Jun 21 2011 LEEDuser Member 223 Thumbs Up

Ciao DTTN Habitech,
thank you for your good advices. Could you please send me the reference and information about EU manufacturers that you have?
Do you know if Mapei is one of those?

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Sylvia Renes ir. BenR Adviseurs voor duurzaamheid BV
Apr 28 2011
LEEDuser Member
22 Thumbs Up

Cleaning tissues

In our project cleaning tissues will be used. It's a special cleaning agent for plastic weld joints.
This tissues are soaked with cleaning fluid based on ethyl alcohol.
Cleaning purposes are not mentioned in the LEED Reference Guide. Do we have to document it anyway?

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Petr Lhoták Technologist, Sustainability Consultant Skanska Czech Republic
Mar 11 2011
Guest
1048 Thumbs Up

Accepting other testing methods

Building materials are required to comply with SCQAMD rules which state VOC limits for various types of materials. SCQAMD also dictates testing methods that should be used for determination of these limits.
What about using materials, that have declared VOC limits with other testing methods than ASTMVoluntary standards development organization which creates source technical standards for materials, products, systems, and services? Does anyone have experience with declaring of VOC content under LEED 2009 CS - IEQc4? Does certification body accept any other methods, specificaly European - EN, DIN, CSN?

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Reinhard Oppl Director VOC Testing, Eurofins Product Testing A/S Mar 11 2011 Guest 1353 Thumbs Up

Right today LEED accepts only the SCAQMD methods, but there is some discussion to expand the range of accepted VOC declarations and test methods for LEED 2012. Please see www.eurofins.com/scaqmd for discussion of the test methods in California and in Europe.

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Petr Lhoták Technologist, Sustainability Consultant, Skanska Czech Republic Mar 11 2011 Guest 1048 Thumbs Up

Thank you very much, this gave me some directions...
Is Eurofins an only laboratory accredited for VOC testing according SQAMD and FloorScore in Europe?

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Reinhard Oppl Director VOC Testing, Eurofins Product Testing A/S Mar 11 2011 Guest 1353 Thumbs Up

Don't know, but I would expect that other labs can do the same in Europe.

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Peter Doo Doo Consulting LLC
Aug 16 2010
LEEDuser Member
2656 Thumbs Up

fire stopping sealants and duct sealants

I am assuming that the VOC limit for these sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. is "Other" 420 g/l. Can anyone confirm?

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Shannon Gray Consultant, YRG sustainability Aug 27 2010 Guest 3238 Thumbs Up

Hi Peter,

For duct sealant, there was a CIRCredit Interpretation Ruling. Used by design team members experiencing difficulties in the application of a LEED prerequisite or credit to a project. Typically, difficulties arise when specific issues are not directly addressed by LEED information/guide ruling on 6/26/09 that states duct sealant would fall under "other". However, CIRs from previous versions of the rating system are not necessarily applicable to 2009 but in this case it seems to make sense that the ruling would still apply. For fire stop, I have mostly submitted it under architectural.

Has anyone had luck with submitting fire stop as "other"?

Shannon

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Xavi B
Jun 24 2010
LEEDuser Member
1870 Thumbs Up

Low emitting materials in CS 2.0

Regarding low emitting materials such us solvents, adhesives, carpets, in CS2.0. Can I put just one compliant door for example and still get that credit. It is my understanding that CS 2.0 does not address quantities. Same as for the carpets. My project does not have carpets or composite woodComposite wood consists of wood or plant particles or fibers bonded by a synthetic resin or binder. Examples include particleboard, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), plywood, oriented-strand board (OSB), wheatboard, and strawboard., but we are planning to do just a small part with this materials so we can get those credits. Is it possible to earn those credits in such a way?

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Jun 24 2010 LEEDuser Moderator

Yes, you are understanding things correctly. These credits have no minimum materials needed. In LEED 2009, the credit has been changed to address all flooring systems, for for LEED CS 2.0, you can install just some carpet and earn the credit.

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Tatjana Ernst LEED AP; Dipl.-Ing.
Jun 02 2010
Guest
444 Thumbs Up

Documentation

I have a question regarding a core and shell building. So I understand the credit that we have to follow the VOC Limits in the general area of the building/core and shell and require VOC Limits in the Tenant Design and Construction Guideline. Is this what I have to document? Or do I also have to document that the tenant actually follows the LEED VOC Limits?
Many thanks for answers,
Tatjana

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Jun 04 2010 LEEDuser Moderator

Yes, follow the IEQc4 limits for work within the CS scope. According to CS Appendix 4 from the BD&C LEED Reference Guide, you can get Exemplary PerformanceIn LEED, certain credits have established thresholds beyond basic credit achievement. Meeting these thresholds can earn additional points through Innovation in Design (ID) or Innovation in Operations (IO) points. As a general rule of thumb, ID credits for exemplary performance are awarded for doubling the credit requirements and/or achieving the next incremental percentage threshold. However, this rule varies on a case by case basis, so check the credit requirements. for requiring tenants to meet IEQc4 in the tenant guidelines. You don't have to document that they do so.

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