International Organization for Standards is used in many categories: ex.ISO14021-1999 Environmental Labels and Declarations for such things as post-consumer content – referenced in LEED Credit 4.1 & 4.2 Recycled ContentGreen Seal is an independent nonprofit organization that promotes the manufacture and sale of environmentally responsible consumer products. GS-36 is a standard that sets VOC limits for commercial adhesives. EQ 4.1GS-11 sets VOC limits for commercial flat and non-flat paints. EQ 4.2 Green Label Plus program form the Carpet and Rug Institute referenced in EQ 4.3 Carpet SystemsEPA referenced in LEED EQ Credits regarding indoor air pollutantsGreenguard Environmental Institutewww.greenguard.orgA non-profit certification organization that conducts laboratory tests on products and materials used in indoor environments, and provides a guide of certified low-emitting products.
Finished with expansion joints
Production of vinyl flooring can result in the creation of toxic byproducts such as dioxins
Urea formaldehyde is a suspected human carcinogenFormaldehyde off-gassing contributes to poor indoor air qualityTo eliminate potential toxinsUse solid wood for stair treads,MDF with formaldehyde-free bindersStraw-based MDF – use for shelving, cabinets, trim and substrate for countertops.Made from agricultural wastesStraw-based particleboardExterior plywood uses phenolic resins that offgas 1/10 as much as interior plywoodInterior plywood typically uses urea formaldehyde glueUse for custom cabinets and shelving
Urethane and acrylic are conventional solvent based finishes.
Darker colors tend to have higher VOCs due to the concentration of synthetic materials