USGBC releases April 2010 LEED addenda – changes to rating systems, Reference Guides

USGBC came out today with its latest batch of addenda (formerly errata) announced for the LEED 2009 rating sytems and Reference Guides.

Typically these are not that earth-shattering, but can be helpful. One good example from today's batch, addresses a conversation some of us have been having on ceramic tile in IEQc4.3:

"All hard surface flooring must 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.  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."

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