Mohawk, Quick-Step, and Columbia laminate have recently earned the highly-coveted FloorScore certification by passing one of the most stringent indoor air quality certification programs in the world.  FloorScore tests for 78 volatile organic compounds (VOCs), some of which are identified as known carcinogens or reproductive toxins.  (A carcinogen is a cancer causing substance and a reproductive toxin is a chemical that can damage the reproductive systems of children and adults.)  All Mohawk, Quick-Step, and Columbia laminate products are officially FloorScore certified.

“FloorScore is a prestigious distinction regarding indoor air quality and is recognized as one of the most credible certification programs in the United States,” said Roger Farabee, senior vice president of marketing for Unilin, the parent company of Mohawk, Quick-Step, and Columbia laminate brands.  “Flooring that has earned FloorScore certification enjoys a legitimately enhanced market position, distinguished by the FloorScore certification label.”“Unilin takes very seriously our position as an industry leader when it comes to all aspects of environmental responsibility,” said Farabee.  “We have continuously focused our efforts on producing Mohawk, Quick-Step, and Columbia laminate products that are both stylish and environmentally sound.  Families living on our laminate flooring can have peace of mind that they are bringing a product into their home that meets strict indoor air quality standards.”

“From a sales opportunity perspective, FloorScore certification also opens doors for retailers to aggressively pursue commercial sales,” said Shane Calloway, vice president of North American independent distribution sales for Unilin.  “The market for commercial projects requiring compliance with specific air quality emissions standards is a substantial, potential revenue source open to retailers carrying the right products.  With achievement of FloorScore certification, our floors meet the criteria required by a variety of well-respected organizations.”

FloorScore certified hard surface products contribute points to projects under The U.S. Green Building Council’s USGBC) LEED v3 Commercial Interiors and New Construction and Major Renovations program.  FloorScore certified products also meet the criteria for the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS), a measureable standard set for educational facilities.  Regarding healthcare facilities, products bearing the FloorScore label may honorably claim they meet criteria established for the Green Guide for Health Care.

“The industry’s overall commercial laminate segment makes up approximately 6-8% of laminate industry sales,” adds Calloway.  “Light to medium commercial sales form the largest portion of this commercial segment.  Almost all of our brands’ displayed products offer a 5-Year Light To Medium Commercial Warranty.  Our new FloorScore certification now increases the opportunities for our retail partners to pursue even more commercial sales.”

In addition to the new FloorScore achievement, all Mohawk, Quick-Step, and Columbia laminate flooring qualifies as an Environmentally Preferred Product (EPP) in almost all green rating systems and can help a project get up to four (4) LEED points. 

Protection from VOCs is further provided by Mohawk, Quick-Step, and Columbia laminate flooring through inclusion of the Uniclic glueless installation locking system in the brands’ products.  The patented Uniclic installation method ensures planks simply click together for a lasting connection, so no glue is needed during installation.  The Uniclic advantage protects families from VOCs introduced into a home by other types of flooring that must be glued down during installation.

FloorScore testing and certification was developed by the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI) in conjunction with Scientific Certification Systems (SCS).  FloorScore tests in accordance with CA01350 developed by the California Department of Health Services.