-
Use either inert or certified flooring

Resilient flooring, rubber flooring, and prefinished wood flooring all must be FloorScore or Greenguard Children and Schools certified. Wood, concrete, and other flooring installed raw need not be certified as long all coatings and finished applied to them meet the requirements of IEQc4.2: Low-Emitting Materials—Paints and Coatings.
Key changes to this credit
This credit represents a significant change from past versions of LEED, which focused on just carpeting. LEED 2009 now mandates low-emitting standards for resilient and hard-surface flooring as well.
Another big change to this credit took place in the April 2010 LEED addenda from USGBC, in which USGBC responded to complaints that inert flooring materials shouldn't be subject to the testing requirements. Tile, masonry, terrazzo, cut stone, and solid-wood flooring without organic coatings or 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. now qualify for this credit without further testing.
Both designers and contractors have to understand the rules
While this is a construction-phase credit—and the contractor will need to ensure that VOC-compliant adhesives, sealants and coatings have been applied to flooring systems—it can be dealt with primarily during the design phase by choosing specific manufacturers and flooring products for the contractor to use. Allocating adequate time for product research, and identifying compliant flooring products before construction begins, helps to ensure that the right products are used.
FloorScore lists a few compliant products on its website, but a limited number of manufacturers that have had their products tested by FloorScore. Products certified to the Greenguard for Children and Schools standard are also okay, because that standard meets the California Department of Health Services protocol. Beware: the generic Greenguard standard does not meet this protocol. (See Resources for links to products.)
Make sure the contractor and subcontractors know what information to look for. Don’t allow them to use products that merely claim to be low-VOC. Find the manufacturer’s data stating that carpets are Green Label Plus, carpet padding is Green Label, and hard-surface flooring is FloorScore or has been tested by an accredited lab and complies with the California Department of Health Services protocol.
Carpet samples like these are tested in closed chambers for emissions levels. Samples are fit into trays covering their edges, to avoid skewing results. Photo – Berkeley Analytical AssociatesYou’ll have to document flooring adhesives, sealants, paints, and coatings twice—once for IEQc4.1 or IEQc4.2, and again for this credit. Enter the same VOC data for flooring adhesives, sealants, and coatings in the LEED forms for IEQc4.1, IEQc4.2 and IEQc4.3. 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.
FAQs for IEQc4.3
Should track-off mats being used on the project to meet IEQc5 requirements be included in IEQc4.3 credit requirements?
There is no definitive information from USGBC on this one way or another. It is recommended that project teams do their best to find low-emitting options for IEQc5, and that IEQc4.3 compliance is recommended. However, LEEDuser has heard that project teams have had success not including track-off mats, such as the type with grilles and small strips of carpeting. Also, mats that are removed for cleaning are not permanently installed and thus not subject to credit requirements. Carpet tiles may be used as track-off mats, and are available with the requisite certification.
If I have no flooring products in my project, can I earn this credit?
This situation is not definitively addressed by USGBC. However, because the credit requires the use of flooring products that meet specific requirements, it makes sense to assume that flooring must be used.
How do I handle a polished concrete floor?
The concrete is not considered under the credit requirements because it is not a flooring product. Any coatings used to finish the concrete would be applicable under IEQc4.1 and IEQc4.2.
Should mineral-based finish flooring products (without any integral organic-based coatings and sealants) and unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring be documented on the IEQc4.3 LEED Online form, even though they are exempt from certification requirements?
According to LEED InterpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org. #10267, the project team should mark the form to indicate an Alternative Compliance Path, and include a narrative with a statement that the project is applying the April 14, 2010 addenda, as well as the manufacturer and specific product description of the product claiming the exemption. Manufacturer documentation for each product claiming an exemption is not required.
On a renovation, should flooring that is previously installed be subject to the credit requirements?
No. The credit requirements only refer to flooring installed within the project scope.
One flooring adhesive we are using falls under both IEQc4.1 and IEQc4.3, and is over the VOC limit. We are using the VOC budget method to meet IEQc4.1 requirements, but are we automatically disqualifed from IEQc4.3?
Technically speaking, the IEQc4.3 credit language would not allow you to earn the credit in this situation. The budget method is not referenced in IEQc4.3. However, there has not been an official ruling on this from USGBC, and a case could be made through a narrative or a LEED Interpretation for earning the credit.
Are throw rugs subject to the credit requirements?
While finding low-emitting throw rugs would be a good idea, they would not be considered "permanently installed" and so would not be subject to credit requirements.
If a ceramic tile receives a top coat after it is manufactured, is it exempt from the credit requirements?
No. A tile or similar product that is coated after being manufactured must meet the credit requirements for flooring product certification.
The credit requirements are allowed to exempt unfinished wood flooring from the credit requirements, but wood flooring is almost always finished. This is confusing!
Yes, it is odd. All the same, unfinished flooring is exempt, while finished flooring must meet relevant requirements.
Legend
- Best Practices
- Gotcha
- Action Steps
- Cost Tip
Design Development
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Consider using low-emitting flooring materials and systems.
Review the table shown in the Bird's Eye View, and the credit language, for low-emitting requirements for different flooring materials.
The cost premium for low-emitting flooring varies. Carpet, for example, should not have much of a premium, if any. Many hard-surface flooring materials such as concrete and wood are typically low-emitting themselves, and simply need a low-emitting finish, which is unlikely to have much of a cost premium. With higher-end flooring products, the cost of credit-compliant and non-compliant products should be comparable for all types of flooring.
Durability and performance of flooring materials that are compliant with this credit should not be an issue, compared with conventional materials.
Bolyu's Flair carpet tile contains 85% recycled content backing and matches the company's broadloom product. Photo – Beaulieu CommercialCarpeting all of your regularly occupied spaces will make earning this credit easier, because compliant carpeting is easy to find and should be available without a cost premium. FloorScore-certified hard-surface flooring, on the other hand, is harder to find as there may be limited variety and availability. However, consider durability as part of your design—hard-surface flooring offers better durability than carpet.FloorScore lists a few compliant products on its website, but a limited number of manufacturers that have had their products tested by FloorScore. Products certified under the Greenguard for Children and Schools program are also okay, because that standard meets the California Department of Health Services protocol. Beware: the generic Greenguard standard does not meet this protocol.
Resilient flooring, rubber flooring, and prefinished wood flooring all must be FloorScore-certified. Solid wood flooring, ceramic tile, concrete, and other flooring installed without binders or coatings need not be certified, but all coatings and finished applied to them must meet the requirements of IEQc4.2: Low-Emitting Materials—Paints and Coatings.
Construction Documents
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Make sure low-emitting flooring requirements have been integrated into the construction specifications.
Guidance on incorporating LEED specifications into construction documents, along with samples, is available from MasterSpec and from the Whole Building Design Guide (see Resources).
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.
If possible, incorporate in the specifications specific, compliant low-emitting products by product line and manufacturer.
Contracts for contractors and subcontractors should include their responsibility for ensuring that products they supply comply with LEED’s requirements.
Low-emitting requirements can also be incorporated in a more comprehensive IAQ management plan (required for IEQc3.1: Construction Indoor Air Quality Plan—During Construction) specifying low-emitting flooring systems to control a source of construction pollution.
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-emitting flooring products improves your odds of passing the air quality tests.
Unfinished concrete floors in mechanical rooms are not covered by this credit. Floor finishes like this low-VOC siliconate polished concrete finish are covered, however. Photo – ConspecThe credit only applies to flooring products installed inside. You can exclude flooring or decking in exterior spaces. Unfinished flooring, including floors in mechanical, electrical, and elevator service rooms also are not included. 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.
As accountability is key to successfully implementing low VOC materials, contractors and subcontractors should be contractually required to provide LEED submittal product information.
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.
When researching low-emitting products, double check that the manufacturer’s printed information is not misleading. A common example is a product cut sheet that states: “This is low-emitting flooring” without providing the product’s certification status and number. You need a copy of the flooring certification to demonstrate the product’s compliance.
The MSDS for flooring adhesive, sealant, or coating might just list the chemical contents without providing an overall VOC g/L number. If this is the case, you’ll need to contact the manufacturer for a VOC number.
The VOC Budget method described in IEQc4.1: Low Emitting Materials—Adhesives and Sealants and IEQc4.2: Low Emitting Materials—Paints and Coatings is not available for this credit.
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 insist that a specific carpet adhesive that doesn’t meet the credit requirements. In this case, you’ll have to choose whether to forgo the credit for the sake of the warranty, to get the manufacturer to approve a low-emitting alternative, or to find an alternative product that complies with this credit.
During Construction
Throughout construction, the GC collects copies of flooring certifications and VOC data from subcontractors for all flooring adhesives, sealants, and coatings. VOC content is measured in grams per liter (g/l), and VOC levels can be found on each product’s MSDS.
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.
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 items being tracked for each material across MR and IEQ credits. For example, you may need to ask the carpet manufacturer for regional manufacturing and extraction locations for MRc5, recycled-content information for MRc4, and the CRI Green Label Plus information for this credit—all for one carpet selection. (See the Documentation Toolkit for a sample tracking spreadsheet.)
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.
Schedule the installation of absorptive flooring systems so that they are protected from construction air contaminants. This is required if your project is pursuing IEQc3.1: Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan—During Construction. For example, carpet tiles installed before walls are painted will absorb VOCs from the paint, and then offgas over a longer 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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Keep a list of compliant flooring systems used on the project so that O&M staff can use these products for future renovations.
Follow specific maintenance practices for the flooring products used. Follow a green cleaning and maintenance policy that limits products with VOCs and other indoor pollutants.
USGBC
Excerpted from LEED 2009 for New Construction and Major Renovations
COPYRIGHT © 2009 BY THE U.S. GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVEDIEQ Credit 4.3: Low-emitting materials - flooring systems
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
Option 1
All flooring must comply with the following as applicable to the project scope:
- All carpet installed in the building interior must meet one of the following requirements:
- Meets the testing and product requirements of the Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label Plus1 program.
- Maximum VOC concentrations are less than or equal to those specified in the California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda, using the office scenario as defined in Table 7.5 within the practice. The additional VOC concentration limits listed in Section 9.1a must also be met.
- Maximum VOC concentrations meet the California requirements specified above based on the following:
- California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method V1.1-2010 using test results obtained at the 14 day time point
- Projects outside the U.S. may use the German AgBB/DIBt testing method and all testing methods based on AgBB/DIBt method (GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) using test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day or 14 day time point. For caprolactam, if test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day time point is used, the emission concentration must be less than ½ of the concentration limit specified above because the emission may not have peaked at the measured time points.
If a European testing method (AgBB/DIBt GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) had used parameters for calculating test results different from those specified in the referenced California method, then the European test results for carpets or floorings need to be converted into California air concentrations by multiplication with 0.7.
- All carpet cushion installed in the building interior must meet the requirements of the Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label program.
- All carpet adhesive must meet the requirements of IEQ Credit 4.1: 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., which includes a volatile organic compound (VOC) limit of 50 g/L (0.4 lb/gal).
- All hard surface flooring installed in the building interior must meet one of the following requirements:
- Meet the requirements of the FloorScore2 standard (current as of the date of this rating system, or more stringent version) as shown with testing by an independent third-party.
- Demonstrate maximum VOC concentrations less than or equal to those specified in the California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda, using the office scenario as defined in Table 7.5 within the practice.
- Maximum VOC concentrations meet the California requirements specified above based on the following:
- California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method V1.1-2010 using test results obtained at the 14 day time point
- Projects outside the U.S. may use the German AgBB/DIBt testing method and all testing methods based on AgBB/DIBt method (GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) using test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day or 14 day time point. For caprolactam, if test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day time point is used, the emission concentration must be less than ½ of the concentration limit specified above because the emission may not have peaked at the measured time points.
If a European testing method (AgBB/DIBt GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) had used parameters for calculating test results different from those specified in the referenced California method, then the European test results for carpets or floorings need to be converted into California air concentrations by multiplication with 0.7.
Mineral based finish flooring products such as tile, masonry, terrazzo, and cut stone without integral organic-based coatings and sealants and unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQIndoor air quality: The quality and attributes of indoor air affecting the health and comfort building occupants. IAQ encompasses available fresh air, contaminant levels, acoustics and noise levels, lighting quality, and other factors. testing requirements. However, associated site-applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealersSealers are coatings applied to either block materials from penetrating into or leaching out of a substrate, to prevent subsequent coatings from being absorbed by the substrate, or to prevent harm to subsequent coatings by materials in the substrate. must be compliant for a mineral-based or unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring system to qualify for credit.
- Concrete, wood, bamboo and cork floor finishes such as sealer, stain and finish must meet the requirements of South Coast Air Quality Management District SCAQMD) Rule 1113, Architectural Coatings, rules in effect on January 1, 2004.
- Tile setting adhesives and grout must meet South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1168. VOC limits correspond to an effective date of July 1, 2005 and rule amendment date of January 7, 2005.
- For carpet adhesive, concrete, wood, bamboo and cork floor finishes, and tile setting adhesives, compliance can be demonstrated with test results of:
- Total volatiles fraction, based on one of the following, provided that water and exempt compounds are subtracted from total volatiles test results and the mass VOC content is calculated consistent with SCAQMD Rule 1113 and Rule 1168:
- ASTMVoluntary standards development organization which creates source technical standards for materials, products, systems, and services D2369
- EPA method 24
- ISO 11890 part 1
- Total volatile organic compounds fraction, based on one of the following, provided that all 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. with a boiling point up to 280°C (536°F) are included, and exempt compounds are subtracted from total volatiles test results and the mass VOC content is calculated consistent with SCAQMD Rule 1113 and Rule 1168.
- ASTM D6886
- ISO 11890 part 2
1 The Green Label Plus program for carpets and its associated VOC emission criteria in micrograms per square meter per hour, along with information on testing method and sample collection developed by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) in coordination with California’s Sustainable Building Task Force and the California Department of Public Health , are described in Section 9, Acceptable Emissions Testing for Carpet, DHS Standard Practice CA/DHS/EHLB/R-174, dated 07/15/04.
2 FloorScore is a voluntary, independent certification program that tests and certifies hard surface flooring and associated products for compliance with criteria adopted in California for indoor air emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) with potential health effects. The program uses a small-scale chamber test protocol and incorporates VOC emissions criteria, developed by the California Department of Public Health. - Total volatiles fraction, based on one of the following, provided that water and exempt compounds are subtracted from total volatiles test results and the mass VOC content is calculated consistent with SCAQMD Rule 1113 and Rule 1168:
OPTION 2
All flooring elements installed in the building interior must meet the testing and product requirements of the California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda. Mineral-based finish flooring products such as tile, masonry, terrazzo, and cut stone without integral organic based coatings and sealants and unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQ testing requirements. However, associated site-applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealers must be compliant for a mineral-based or unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring system to qualify for credit.
Potential Technologies & Strategies
Clearly specify requirements for product testing and/or certification in the construction documents. Select products that are either certified under the Green Label Plus program or for which testing has been done by qualified independent laboratories in accordance with the appropriate requirements.
- All carpet installed in the building interior must meet one of the following requirements:
Organizations
Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG) — Federal Green Construction Guide for Specifiers
Support on incorporating LEED requirements into specifications.
Floorscore
The FloorScore program, developed by the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI) in conjunction with Scientific Certification Systems (SCS), tests and certifies flooring products for compliance with indoor air quality emission requirements adopted in California.
GreenGuard Environmental Institute (GEI)
The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) is an industry-independent, non-profit organization that oversees the GREENGUARD Certification ProgramSM. As an ANSI Authorized Standards Developer, GEI establishes acceptable indoor air standards for indoor products, environments, and buildings.
Scientific Certification Systems, Inc.
A global leader in third-party environmental, sustainability and food quality certification, auditing, testing and standards development.
Publications
South Coast Air Quality Management District - Rules and Regulations
AQMD is the air pollution control agency for all of Orange County and the urban portions of Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, the smoggiest region of the U.S. We are committed to protecting the health of residents, while remaining sensitive to businesses.
Greenguard Children & Schools
Searchable List of Compliant products.
Technical Guides
Standard Practice For the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions From Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers
This is the referenced California standard that sets out the procedures and specific criteria for conducting VOC chamber tests.
MasterSpec “Specifying LEED Requirements Reference Book and CD ROM
A guide to specifying for LEED projects, with samples.
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.
Templates
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.
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.
Samples
Product Cut Sheets
Look to product cut sheets for information on the certifications and VOC content of flooring and adhesives or coatings associated with flooring. The example here of a tile clearly states that it is FloorScore-certified, but the VOC level for the tile adhesive is not given, and will need to be requested from the manufacturer.
LEED Online Forms: NC-2009 IEQ
The following links take you to the public, informational versions of the dynamic LEED Online forms for each NC-2009 IEQ credit. You'll need to fill out the live versions of these forms on LEED Online for each credit you hope to earn.
Version 4 forms (newest):
- IEQp1: Minimum IAQ Performance
- IEQp2: ETS Control
- IEQc1: Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring
- IEQc2: Increased Ventilation
- IEQc5: Indoor Chem. & Pollutant Source Control
- IEQc6.1: Control. of Systems—Lighting
- IEQc6.2: Control. of Systems—Thermal Comfort
- IEQc7.1: Thermal Comfort—Design
- IEQc8.1: Daylight & Views—Daylight
- IEQc8.2: Daylight & Views—Views
Version 3 forms:
- IEQp1: Minimum IAQ Performance
- IEQp2: ETS Control
- IEQc1: Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring
- IEQc2: Increased Ventilation
- IEQc3.1: Const. IAQ Mngt.—During Const.
- IEQc3.2: Const. IAQ Mngt.—Before Occupancy
- IEQc4.1: Low-Emitting Mats.—Paints & Coatings
- IEQc4.2: Low-Emitting Mats.—Adhesives & Sealants
- IEQc4.3: Low-Emitting Mats.—Flooring
- IEQc4.4: Low-Emitting Mats.—Composite Wood
- IEQc5: Indoor Chem.l & Pollutant Source Control
- IEQc6.1: Control. of Systems—Lighting
- IEQc6.2: Control. of Systems—Thermal Comfort
- IEQc7.1: Thermal Comfort—Design
- IEQc7.2: Thermal Comfort—Verification
- IEQc8.1: Daylight & Views—Daylight
- IEQc8.2: Daylight & Views—Views
These links are posted by LEEDuser with USGBC's permission. USGBC has certain usage restrictions for these forms; for more information, visit LEED Online and click "Sample Forms Download."
Construction Submittal
Documentation for this credit is part of the Construction Phase submittal.
Flooring Materials Tracking Form
Provide this form to contractors or other team members to track flooring materials used on the project, and LEED compliance.



203 Comments
Slate Porcelain Tiles
Where do I classify the above tiles in the LEED online flooring materials listing ?
Is it under Flooring: ceramic? These tiles are manufactured from Italy.
Is the Company product data which shows that the tiles are ECo Label Certified/ISO 14001/GBC Italy certified and LEED compliant sufficient to document the certification?
emergency Stairs
I have an emergency staircase, which won't be used except in case of fire, and this staircase (core) is completely separate from the building's HVAC system, with an exhaust fan only, without any Air conditioning.
The stairs flooring is intended to be granite, which is neither floor-score certified, nor guaranteed to be free from organic compounds.
Now do I need to include this stairs to the IEQc4.3, or is it exempt, since that it's separate from the building interior?
And if not, is it enough to get a suppliers 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 stating that the manufactured granite is 100% mineral based, without any added organic compounds?
Any help would be strongly appreciated
Indoor Turf
Does anyone have any experience with a compliant indoor turf flooring? Thanks!
Tile Crack Prevention Underlay
Does tile crack prevention mat underlay (with a polyurethane self-adhesive ) have to meet FloorScore standard for C&S Project? Unlike tile, it is not a mineral based product, nor is it a hard-surface product. Also not a carpet cushion. Thanks in advance.
Temporary carpets / rugs
Hello,
Do roll-out carpets / rugs usually used in residential apartments need to be certified? To be clear, these are the small ones which usually cover a portion of the floor (example: 2m x 1.5m rug in the middle of the bigger living room)
Thanks.
Hi Omar,
Please the FAQ above:
______________________________
Are throw rugs subject to the credit requirements?
While finding low-emitting throw rugs would be a good idea, they would not be considered "permanently installed" and so would not be subject to credit requirements.
California Specifications Section 01350
California Specifications Section 01350 and "California Department of Heath Services standards" are these one and the same?
Here is a link to the current "Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers, Version 1.1."
http://www.cal-iaq.org/phocadownload/cdph-iaq_standardmethod_v1_1_2010%2...
This updated Standard was published in February, 2010 and it supercedes California Section 01350.
Cork Flooring
If the Cork flooring exceeds air quality standardsThe level of pollutants prescribed by regulations that are not to be exceeded during a given time in a defined area. (EPA) established by SCAQMD rule 1168 - Can we consider that it meets the option # 2 of IEQc4.3 "California Department of Heath Services standard"?
Hi Sheela,
You would have to test it under Option 2's requirements in order to verify that it complies.
Just a quick clarification as sometimes this is a common misconception from builders and code officials. The builder has not traditionally tested the product. Traditionally manufacturers of products test and certify low-emitting products. That cost is not traditionally taken on by the builder.
Thank You Lauren and Josh. We have received an email from the manufacturer confirming that their "Eco Scorecard confirms that they meet/exceed California Dept. of Health Specifications Section 01350, as well as specification required for South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule #1168".
Can we upload the email confirmation as the supporting documentation?
Resinous Flooring - Healthcare Project
My project is installing resinous (pourable) flooring in a surgical addition.
Does the mortar (binderGlue used in manufacturing wood products, such as medium-density fiberboard (MDF), particleboard, and engineered lumber. Most binders are made with formaldehyde.) get logged in under the category of Ceramic Tile Adhesive (65 g/L)?
Catherine, that doesn't seem exactly right, but I'm not sure what else to suggest. How does the manufacturer classify it?
The product is actually made of several components...all of which are listed as an industrial maintenance coatings. Industrial Maintenance coatings are listed under Exterior Coatings and this is an interior application. Also if you read SCAQMD 1113 definition of an industrial maintenance coating (IMC), our application doesn't fit.
Should I log it in as an IMC, if that is what it has been tested under?
Or should it be logged in as a floor coating (FC1. A footcandle (fc) is a measure of light falling on a given surface. One footcandle is defined as the quantity of light falling on a 1-square-foot area from a 1 candela light source at a distance of 1 foot (which equals 1 lumen per square foot). Footcandles can be measured both horizontally and vertically by a footcandle meter or light meter. 2. The non-metric measurement of lumens per square foot, one footcandle is the amount of light that is received one foot from a light source called a candela, which is based on the light output of a standardized candle. A common range for interior lighting is 10 to 100 footcandles, while exterior daytime levels can range from 100 to over 10,000 footcandles. Footcandles decrease with distance from the light source. The metric equivalent of a foot candle is 10.76 lux, or lumens per square meter.)?
Should the whole system get logged as a single coating system (whether IMC or FC)?
Or should the system be broken down into its components and logged by its components?
FloorScore doesn't cover this type of "flooring" per se.
Hi Catherine,
What is the VOC content of the components of your product? Does your products VOC contents fall within all of the options that you list above? If so, I would just try my best to place it in one of the categories.
Often judgement calls are made when working on a LEED project in helping to determine where a product goes and how it is included.
If you have the VOC content information for all of the components my advice would be to list out each component in your documentation so as to play it on the safe side.
Sometimes, manufacturers will provide both: a value as a combined system and also individually.
Technical rooms on the roof
Hello.
We have 4 technical rooms on the roof of the building where the thought is to have vinyl flooring. Do this flooring also have to meet Floorcore standard? This is outside of the weatherproofing system were only system engineers and janitor will acsess when necessary. Also wondering if it has to comply with IEQ c4.2 and 4.3?
Thank you:)
Hi Hanne,
If there are enclosed rooms on the roof of the building where system engineers and janitors may be how are they not under a weatherproofing system? How are they protected from the elements? EQc4.1, EQc4.2 in the LEED Reference Guide make note of only including materials inside the weatherproofing membrane but actually EQc4.3 does not. Note that there are a few ways to comply with EQc4.3 and not just FloorScore. Please take a look at the Reference Guide for additional details.
Where can I find the April 2010 addenda?
The link (on LEED user takes me to a LEED overview page and when
I search "addenda" for IEQ 4.3 nothing comes up. I need the specific
wording for "tile without organic coatings not requiring further testing" to
respond to a pre-construction review comment. Thank you!
The text from the 4/14/2010 Addenda states, "Mineral-based finish flooring products such as tile, masonry, terrazzo, and cut stone without integral organic-based coatings 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 unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQIndoor air quality: The quality and attributes of indoor air affecting the health and comfort building occupants. IAQ encompasses available fresh air, contaminant levels, acoustics and noise levels, lighting quality, and other factors. testing requirements. However, associated site-applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealersSealers are coatings applied to either block materials from penetrating into or leaching out of a substrate, to prevent subsequent coatings from being absorbed by the substrate, or to prevent harm to subsequent coatings by materials in the substrate. must be compliant for a mineral-based or unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring system to qualify for credit."
The Addenda text can be found through the resources portion of the new USGBC website. Go to the New Construction Rating System section and at the bottom right it says, "View All Resources." Click on this and then Filter by Addenda. Sort by A-Z and the first file (Building design & construction reference guide addenda - 1st edition) is the one you are looking for. If you download the Addenda for the 1st Edition is compiles all previous Addenda. Found here: http://new.usgbc.org/resources/building-design-amp-construction-referenc...
Additionally, I found this page on LEEDuser which talks about it: http://www.leeduser.com/topic/usgbc-releases-april-2010-leed-addenda-%E2.... I searched on LEEDuser for April 2010 Addenda.
Hope this helps!
Cradle to cradle certificate as ACP?
Dear All,
I am working on a LEED project in Europe. Our architect is applying several products with Cradle to cradle certificates. Is there a chance these certificates can be used as an alternative to demonstrate compliance under IEQc4?
Many thanks for your response!
Isolda! People have been telling me all my life that we would meet one day. Who know that it would be over a LEED question. Not very tragic, is it.
The answer is no, as C2CA protocol developed by McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry that establishes guidelines for the manufacture of products in ways that harmonize with natural systems. These guidelines require, for example, that products be recyclable indefinitely, contain no hazardous ingredients, and be manufactured using renewable energy. does not address emissions in the way expected under this credit. There is an ID credit path for C2C products if you use enough of them—it's something like 2.5% of the materials budget.
You might want to reference the LEED-CI IDc1.1 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 (4/9/07) Cradle to Cradle Certified Products. The CIR requires Cradle to Cradle Certified building materials and products for 2.5% of the total value of all building materials and products used in the project, based on cost. The "cost value" of products for the purposes of this calculation will be discounted by 50% for Silver level products and those identified only as "technical or biological nutrients", and doubled for products certified at the platinum level.
Ah - Green Building, a modern day fairytale ;-) Nice to (virtually) meet you, Tristan!
Thank you both so much for your reply. I know where not to focus too much attention.
Kind regards,
Isolda
tile setting materials
Aside from grout, are MORTARS included in the IEQ 4.3 floor finishing system tile setting materials listing?
Hi Benj, Yes mortars can be included in the IEQ 4.3 Low Emitting Materials - Flooring Systems credit as long as you are using a mortar product that meets the low-VOC limit followed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1168. You should look into using mortar products that meet these guidelines. A company named Merkrete sells mortar supplies that meet the LEED IEQ 4.3 Low Emitting Material - Flooring Systems guidelines. Please use the following link to research mortar products by Merkrete and see for yourself:
http://www.merkrete.com/p/thin-sets-adhesives
I hope this helps and good luck.
IEQ c4.3 Option 1 - Combination of standards
Hello,
Does "Option 1. Combination of Carpet and Rug Institute, South Coast Air Quality Management District, and FloorScore referenced standards or equivalents" (defined in Form 4.3 v5, NC 2009) mean that we can use flooring systems that are in compliance with either CRIColor-rendering index, or CRI, is a scale of 0 to 100, used by manufacturers of fluorescent, metal halide, and other non-incandescent lighting equipment to describe the visual effect of the light on colored surfaces. Natural daylight is assigned a CRI of 100. Green Label plus, SCAQMD Rule 113, FloorScore or CA Dept of Health standard?
Thanks for your help:)
Hanne, yes, you can use a variety of products complying with a variety of standards to meet the credit requirements.
Thank you :)
Liquid Lava
I have a client wanting to install modular panels consisting of liquid sealed within the tiles in a small area of their building. The product is made up of two sheets of polycarbonate sealed with rigid polycarbonate. Installation photos show it has been installed in children's hospitals. The product is not FloorScore certified. Since this is not a resilient flooring, rubber flooring, or prefinished wood flooring would it be exempt when documenting IEQc4.3?
Alle, the credit language (see above) is clear that "all flooring' is subject to the credit requirements. You'd need to find a way for this installation to comply with the requirements to earn the credit.
I agree. Our designers found this as well and I had to tell them no. But I asked them and I'll ask your team. Can you call the manufacturer and have them test it? They've already lost out on one project and it sounds like they'll lose out on your project. Perhaps they don't realize they are losing business. Besides, it isn't like FloorScore is a particularly tough standard to meet.
Also realize that FloorScore is not the only way to show compliance. There are other certifications that show compliance (GREENGUARD Children & Schools, SCS IAQIndoor air quality: The quality and attributes of indoor air affecting the health and comfort building occupants. IAQ encompasses available fresh air, contaminant levels, acoustics and noise levels, lighting quality, and other factors. Gold are examples) and they could have a CA 01350 test done on the project to show compliance as well.
particle board
Would particle board be considered for this credit requirements?
We have a situation where we are using it on the floor but I wouldn't necessarily see this as being held to these requirements. We will have a laminate over it which will comply with the credit VOC levels.
Would this material fall within these exemptions " Wood, concrete, and other flooring installed raw need not be certified as long all coatings and finished applied to them meet the requirements of IEQc4.2: Low-Emitting Materials—Paints and Coatings." ?
Thanks so much for your help.
Hi Jaida,
I would make sure that you're particle board complies with the EQc4.4 requirements as it does not fall within a hard surface flooring material. EQc4.3 is meant to address finished flooring materials.
I probably should have clarified this in my first post.
The particle board even though it is a 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. and should comply with the requirements in IEQc4.4. We are procuring it as a finished product. That will come with a laminate applied as the surface finish. Therefore I think it does fall back to being defined as a hard surface flooring as per the definition in the LEED reference manual.
Is this a true assessment?
Also if we wanted to achieve IEQc4.4 would that material component (particle board) need to comply with IEQc4.4 in addition to the complete finished flooring material comply with IEQc4.3?
Hi Jaida,
Oh, I see. It seems like the flooring material is an engineered wood flooring and finished off-site, so it must meet requirements of IEQc4.3. The exemption is for raw wood flooring that is finished on-site. Similarly, since it is a particle core with laminate on top, it would have to meet IEQc4.4. Note that laminating adhesives used off-site must also be included in IEQc4.4.
Does that answer your question?
Concrete Sealer
Under Option 1 Table IEQc4.3-1 in the online form list "FloorScore" as the reference standard for "Sealer: Waterproofing, Concrete/Masonry", while it list "SCAQMD Rule 113" as the reference standard for "Sealer: Waterproofing". The LEED Reference Guide for Green Building Design and Construction states "Concrete, wood, bamboo and cork flooring finishes such as sealer, stain and finish mush met the requirements of South Cost Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 113, Architectural Coatings, rules in effect on January 1, 2004. Should the reference standard for "Sealer: Waterproofing, Concrete/Masonry" be "SCAQMD Rule 113" as opposed to "FloorScore?
Allen, I'm seeing Rule 1113 show up, as it should. Perhaps you have an earlier version of the LEED Online form (the latest is v03). If so, you can request GBCI to update it.
Tristan, thank you for the reply. The v03 online form has it as Rule 1113, but v04 and v05 of the online forms have it at floorscore. I am trying to determine if this is an error or a revision to the credit requirements. Thanks again for your time.
Mineral-based finished flooring products
In an addenda issued on 4/14/10 the followimg is stated, “Mineral-based finish flooring products such as tile, masonry, terrazzo, and cut stone without integral organic-based coatings 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 unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQIndoor air quality: The quality and attributes of indoor air affecting the health and comfort building occupants. IAQ encompasses available fresh air, contaminant levels, acoustics and noise levels, lighting quality, and other factors. testing requirements.” Version 5.0 of the online form for IEQc4.3 no longer contains “exempt” for the Referenced Standard when the product type is Flooring : Mineral Based. The user is prompted to select FloorScore or a CA Health Department Standard option. Are mineral-based products as described above still exempt or do then need to meet on of the referenced standards?
From above text:
Should mineral-based finish flooring products (without any integral organic-based coatings 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 unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring be documented on the IEQc4.3 LEED Online form, even though they are exempt from certification requirements?
According to LEED InterpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org. #10267, the project team should mark the form to indicate an Alternative Compliance Path, and include a narrative with a statement that the project is applying the April 14, 2010 addenda, as well as the manufacturer and specific product description of the product claiming the exemption. Manufacturer documentation for each product claiming an exemption is not required.
Thanks, Lindsey, and to make sure that it's clear, Lindsey is quoting from LEEDuser's FAQ section under our Bird's Eye View above.
Does CARB certification meet the Requirements?
I just had a manufacturer submit a CARBThe California Air Resources Board, part of the state government, is charged with maintaining clean air. This agency is unique at the state level: California was the only state that had such an agency before the passage of the federal Clean Air Act, and was allowed to keep it. Phase 2 Certification for this credit for Par Ky flooring. I see that it complies with the no added urea formaldehydeUrea formaldehyde is a combination of urea and formaldehyde used in some glues and adhesives, particularly in composite wood products. At room temperature, ureaformaldehyde emits formaldehyde, a toxic and possibly carcinogenic gas. but I am unclear as to whether it will meet the California Dept of Health Services Starndard Practice. Any body have experience with this?
AgBB method (Blue Angel)
The requirement states that Projects outside the U.S. may use the German AgBB/DIBt testing method and all testing methods based on AgBB/DIBt method (GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) using test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day or 14 day time point. For caprolactam, if test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day time point is used, the emission concentration must be less than ½ of the concentration limit specified above because the emission may not have peaked at the measured time points.
Is it okey if we use a parquet flooring tested according to AgBB (Blue Angel) using test results obtained at the 3 day and 28 day time point?
Thank you:)
No, it is not acceptable to use standard AgBB (Blue Angel) test results from the 28 day timepoint. It is also not acceptable to use AgBB test results from an earlier time point (e.g. 3, 7, or 14 days) unless the results are calculated using the exposure scenario parameters from the CDPH Standard Method, as defined in this credit.
Use of standard AgBB (Blue Angel) test results after 14 days or without conversion to the CDPH parameters is not acceptable because it could allow significantly higher emissions to occur (especially as VOC emissions generally decrease over time).
Thank you Randy.
Do I understand you correctly that it must be used test results after 14 days which is in accordance with the CDPH test method and the CDPH parameters?
The reference guide (NC, 2009 edition) refers to CDHS, Section 1350, 2004 + addendum 2004. Is it okey to follow this or do we need to follow the 2010 version (CDPH)?
Thanks!
For this credit you must use the CDHS 2004 version of "01350". You cannot use AgBB test data from time points after 14 days.
The AgBB test method is not equivalent to either the CDHS 2004 version of "01350" nor the CDPH 2010 version. That is to say, a flooring product could comply with AgBB and still fail the CDHS and CDPH standards. The reverse is also true -- a flooring product could pass the CDHS and CDPH standards and could fail to comply with the AgBB method. The California methods (CDHS and CDPH) are simply different in many ways from the AgBB method.
The language added to this credit for projects outside of the U.S. was intended to be helpful for projects in regions (primarily in Europe) where fewer products are available that have already been tested and found compliant to the CDHS and CDPH standards. While this language does NOT simply accept AgBB (or BlueAngel) compliance, it does open the door to allow manufacturers to potentially use existing AgBB test data to determine compliance, IF the AgBB data is re-analyzed subject to the limitations specified in this credit language.
These limitations on AgBB are intended to ensure flooring products used in these projects comply with the requirements in the 2004 CDHS version. Ignoring Caprolactum, which is a semi-volatile compound that behaves differently than typical 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., there are essentially two limitations.
Limitation on AgBB #1
Only data from time points at or between 3 and 14 days are allowed.
The AgBB method normally measures emissions and determines compliance based on the 3 day and 28 day time points. However, the California methods determine compliance based on the 14 day time point. Typically, building material emissions decrease over time. Thus allowing more time before determining compliance can allow a product with emissions that are too high at day 14 to decrease and possibly be compliant by day 28. Therefore, AgBB compliance, which is based on the 28 day timepoint, is not sufficient to demonstrate compliance. AgBB test data from the 28 day timepoint cannot be used to determine compliance to the CA standards.
Limitation on AgBB #2
The emission concentrations in air that are used to determine compliance must be based on the exposure scenarios defined within the CDHS standard. These scenarios define the amount (surface area) of flooring that is present and the amount of "clean" ventilation air that is present. The 2004 CDHS version contains two exposure scenarios -- a school classroom and a private office. These two exposure scenarios remain unchanged for flooring in the 2010 CDPH version. The AgBB method uses a different exposure scenario for flooring, which directly affects the test results. If all else is held constant, reducing the amount of floor surface area will reduce the resulting emission concentrations. Similarly, if all else is held constant, reducing the amount of "clean" air flow ventilation will increase the resulting emission concentrations. Therefore it is important to correct for these variations before using the test results to compare to the emissions limits defined in the California standards used by this credit.
I hope this is helpful.
Thank you very much.
Can we alternatively choose to mulitiply the Blue Angel test results with 0.7 and thereby convert these to California Air consentrations as the credit requirement says (above)?
Unfinished solid wood flooring
Does recycled solid wood flooring that is installed unfinished (raw) followed by a site applied sealer and finish that both comply with IEQc4.2, meet the requirements of IEQc4.3, particularly given the latest addendum of 7/6/12?
Hi Ken,
Yes, I believe it does since your on-site finishes will comply. Solid wood is exempted, but the coatings are not. You should plan to provide some product data on the exempted material to support the exclusion.
Thank you Michelle. I agree with you relative to the April 2010 addenda language. I have trouble with the July 2012 LEED addenda that seems to replace the April 2010 language and further seems to longer allow the site applied sealer. I may be misreading things - any thoughts?
Thank you
Hi Ken,
When I took a look at the latest addenda again I still found this language: "Concrete, wood, bamboo and cork floor finishes such as sealer, stain and finish must meet the requirements of
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1113, Architectural Coatings, rules in effect on
January 1, 2004."
Was that what you were looking for? It's on Page 72, 3rd bullet from the bottom.
http://new.usgbc.org/sites/default/files/LEED%202009%20Rating_NC-GLOBAL_...
Ceramic tile coating applied off-site
Dear all,
I'd just like to clarify: would ceramic be considered a mineral based floor and therefore be exempt from any tests? I am asking because some tiles receive an enamel coating or similar, but this is applied off-site. Does coating applied off-site have to comply with the tests, as mentioned in IEQc4.3 addenda? "...without integral organic-based coatings 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 unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQIndoor air quality: The quality and attributes of indoor air affecting the health and comfort building occupants. IAQ encompasses available fresh air, contaminant levels, acoustics and noise levels, lighting quality, and other factors. testing requirements. However, associated site-applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealersSealers are coatings applied to either block materials from penetrating into or leaching out of a substrate, to prevent subsequent coatings from being absorbed by the substrate, or to prevent harm to subsequent coatings by materials in the substrate. must be compliant for a mineral-based or unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring system to qualify for credit." So these "associated site-applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealers" have to be compliant even if nthey are applied off-site or only if they are applied on-site??
Thanks!
Marcio, this is covered in the second-to-last FAQ above—check that and post again here with follow up.
Hi Tristan,
I did check the FAQ before writing the question. The reason I posted it anyway is because even though the FAQ mentions that the "ceramic rceives a top coat after it is manufactured", it doesn't mention whether such coating is applied off-site or on-site, which to me makes the difference since the credit is about "Indoor" Environmental Quality, which gives the idea that only coating applied on-site would have to comply with VOC levels. Am I correct on this assumption? However, on the ther hand, we do know that some compounds continue to offgas for a period of time even after appilciation. So what's the criteria? Coatings applied off-site have to comply or not?
Thanks!
Marcio, I am a little surprised that this, but I suppose that if we are being very specific about a finish applied to tile off-site, it falls through a crack in IEQc4 requirements and is exempt. I don't see any IEQc4 credit language that applies to this situation.
Tristan,
The off-site gap for 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. is intentional. Tracking the documentation for all VOCs applied for all materials at all stages is essentially impossible. In most cases the VOCs have off-gasses long enough to not create IEQ issues in a building.
Of course, this not always the case, especially if products are plastic wrapped at a fabrication facility.
The primary VOC contributor in building construction are the materials installed on-site, and products with large number of organics, such as upholstered furniture.
Hernando, I'm not sure that's the case with IEQc4.3 specifically. I only think that off-site tile is exempt because it's not mentioned along with "Concrete, wood, bamboo and cork floor finishes," which do have VOC requirements whether on or offsite, according to the credit language—as best I can interpret it.
When I was vice-chair of the LEED IEQ Technical Advisory Committee (TAGLEED Technical Advisory Group (TAG): Subcommittees that consist of industry experts who assist in developing credit interpretations and technical improvements to the LEED system.) we intentionally excluded general off-site VOC products for the reasons I gave.
The "flooring language" regarding testing of "other floor" products was added after I was no longer involved. The language was added by someone who was a hard-core advocate for the testing for 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., whether organics actually existed in a product or not. What they actually wanted was testing for all chemical components in a product, not just VOCs.
That is why the "flooring language" was originally written to force all floor products to be tested. The USGBC has tried to fix this but hasn't gotten it correct so far.
Remember that with most products the VOC levels drop dramatically after application. At some point it becomes pointless to test a product. For many "other chemicals of concern" the same is true.
The reason the "other chemicals of concern" were added by a testing advocate was that they didn't trust product manufacturers, of the supply lines the manufacturers used. That is the reason the testing was added; lack of trust in manufacturers actually know, for certain, what is going into their products.
5th bullet of the Ref Guide
Dear all,
We don't quite understand what this means: "An alternative compliance path using FloorScore is acceptable for credit achievement: 100% of the non-carpet finished flooring must be FloorScore-certified and must constitute at least 25% of the finished floor area."
A previous bullet says that "all hard surface flooring must be FloorScore certified", so I don't see how this is different from "100% of the non-carpet flooring must be FloorScore certified".
Can anyone help us to interpret that?
Thanks!
Check to see if there is an addenda for this credit language. Essentially, they are saying that there is an alternative compliance path for hard surface flooring that does not carry a FloorScore certification. Certain kinds of linoleum are not FloorScored certified but do qualify through the alternative compliance path. They way it is written sounds like a hold over from v2.2 that was modified in 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.
Hi Marcio,
I agree that it is confusing. Like Susan suggested, I'd also suggest taking a look at the latest addenda: http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=19222
In that version, the language is clearer for FloorScore products:
"All hard surface flooring installed in the building interior must meet one of the following requirements:
• Meet the requirements of the FloorScore standard (current as of the date of this rating system, or more stringent version) as shown with testing by an independent third‐party.
• Demonstrate maximum VOC concentrations less than or equal to those specified in the
California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile
Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small‐Scale Environmental Chambers,
including 2004 Addenda, using the office scenario as defined in Table 7.5 within the
practice.
• Maximum VOC concentrations meet the California requirements specified above based
on the following:
o California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method V1.1‐2010 using
test results obtained at the 14 day time point
o Projects outside the U.S. may use the German AgBB/DIBt testing method and all
testing methods based on AgBB/DIBt method (GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) using
test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day or 14 day time point. For caprolactam, if
test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day time point is used, the emission
concentration must be less than ½ of the concentration limit specified above
because the emission may not have peaked at the measured time points.
If a European testing method (AgBB/DIBt GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) had used parameters for calculating test
results different from those specified in the referenced California method, then the European test results for
carpets or floorings need to be converted into California air concentrations by multiplication with 0.7.
Mineral‐based finish flooring products such as tile, masonry, terrazzo, and cut stone without integral organic‐
based coatings and sealants and unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQ
testing requirements. However, associated site‐applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealers must be compliant
for a mineral based or unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring system to qualify for credit."
LEED Compliant Epoxy Floor Coating?
I see this topic somewhat proposed, but I haven't been able to really see an answer. Our situation is such that all our floors are complying with the requirements of EQc4.3, except a couple janitorial closets where we would like to use an epoxy concrete floor coating. We are considering this coating a ‘high-performance’ or as defined by SACQMD Rule 1113, a ‘Industrial Maintenance Coating’. Do you think this is the right classification, meaning we have a 100 g/L limit, or should it be considered it something else? Does anyone else have experience with a high performance floor coating and meeting compliance with LEED 2009?
Rebekah,
I have actually worked on a project where we lost this credit because of an epoxy spec requirement. It was a veterinary space and we had to use this epoxy flooring throughout our project.
One thing that I do not think has been officially determined by LEED is whether or not you can do a VOC budget for your EQc4.1 referenced coatings/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., etc. listed under EQc4.3. My feeling is that you had one coating that was not in compliance for EQc4.3 you might be able to reference how you comply, overall, through a budget in EQc4.1.
To answer your question, it seems that the product you reference could fall under High Performance and you could list it as such. However, I haven't done so myself.
Greenguard Children and Schools, "Regular" Greenguard, & CA 1350
I understand that Greenguard Children & Schools Certified is equivalent to CA 1350 (therefore qualifying for this credit) but has "regular" Greenguard certification caught up to CA1350. I am confused by the following post on the Greenguard website:
Does GREENGUARD Certification meet the California Section 01350 materials emissions specification?
The answer is yes. GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certified products meet and exceed these requirements. The California Section 01350 specification was originally written on behalf of the California Sustainable Building Task Force for the design and construction of the state’s Capitol Area East End Complex in 2002 to 2003. Material testing for 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 a key element of this specification, requiring materials to meet exposure limits for VOCs with chronic reference exposure level (CREL) values. The material testing methodology and criteria became known as the “Standard Practice.” GREENGUARD product handling, testing and analysis procedures have been harmonized with California Section 01350. In addition, any product certified within the GREENGUARD Children & Schools Program meets health-based criteria including one-half of the CRELs. All GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certified products meet these requirements and are recognized as suitable for use in Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) projects or any other building program recognizing California Section 01350.
01350 is not static. Here is a good site describing the history.
http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/greenbuilding/specs/section01350
Make sure you are comparing current requirements when claims are made regarding compliance. Always double check.
I never accept product claims such as, meets California 01350, meets LEED VOC requirements, meets FloorScore, and similar because the claim is not specific about the requirement that is meet.
I have found FSCIndependent, third-party verification that forest products are produced and sold based on a set of criteria for forest management and chain-of-custody controls developed by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), an international nonprofit organization. FSC criteria for certifying forests around the world address forest management, legal issues, indigenous rights, labor rights, multiple benefits, and environmental impacts. and FloorScore claims where the actual certifications expired before the products were purchased. LEED VOC requirements have changed over the years, as have formaldehyde1. Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring VOC found in small amounts in animals and plants but is carcinogenic and an irritant to most people when present in high concentrations, causing headaches, dizziness, mental impairment, and other symptoms. When present in the air at levels above 0.1 ppm, it can cause watery eyes; burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat; nausea; coughing; chest tightness; wheezing; skin rashes; and asthmatic and allergic reactions. 2. A known carcinogen with no known safe exposure level. Formaldehyde occurs naturally, but appears in unnaturally high concentrations in many buildings because it is an ingredient in binders used in many building materials and furnishings. limits.
If a product has only GREENGUARD Certification it does not show qualification to CA 01350, GREENGUARD Children & Schools is the certification programs that proves compliance.
TVOC Limit
I am trying to determine if the VOC content in a flooring we used meets LEED standards. It is a Regupol Aktiv floor, and the manufacturer cannot provide a VOC content (as the floor is not a liquid), so it gave me a test report that included the TVOCThe sum or total of all volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from a product or measured in a space under certain defined conditions.. Does anyone know where I can reference a TVOC limit?
Matthew,
VOC content minimization is not a compliance pathway for EQ 4.3 - VOC emission minimization is the compliance pathway. TVOCThe sum or total of all volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from a product or measured in a space under certain defined conditions. (Total Volatile Organic Compounds) is not one of the criteria that is called out in the compliance options. The best bet is to ask if they have certified to CRI Green Label Plus (if carpet), FloorScore or GREENGUARD Children & Schools (if they are other flooring), or have tested the product according to CA 01350. These are the most common ways of showing compliance in this credit.
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