Is Vinyl Flooring From Lumber Liquidators Safe

Essential Aspects of Is Vinyl Flooring From Lumber Liquidators Safe

Introduction

Vinyl flooring has become increasingly popular in recent years as a durable, water-resistant, and stylish flooring option. With its wide range of colors and styles, it can complement any home décor. However, concerns have been raised regarding the safety of vinyl flooring, particularly from Lumber Liquidators. This article will delve into the essential aspects of the safety of vinyl flooring from Lumber Liquidators, addressing concerns and providing informed insights.

Health and Environmental Concerns

One of the primary concerns with vinyl flooring is its potential to emit harmful chemicals, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals can have adverse effects on indoor air quality and human health, causing respiratory problems, headaches, and other health issues. In 2015, Lumber Liquidators was embroiled in a scandal involving the sale of laminate flooring made in China that was found to contain high levels of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

Formaldehyde Emissions

Formaldehyde is a colorless, pungent gas that is used in various building materials, including flooring. Exposure to formaldehyde can cause a range of health problems, including eye, nose, and throat irritation, respiratory issues, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established guidelines for safe levels of formaldehyde emissions in indoor air. Lumber Liquidators has since implemented stricter quality control measures and now sources its vinyl flooring from reputable manufacturers that meet or exceed industry standards for formaldehyde emissions.

Product Safety Certifications

To ensure the safety of its vinyl flooring, Lumber Liquidators has obtained several third-party product safety certifications. These certifications attest to the flooring's compliance with industry standards and its low VOC emissions. Some of the certifications include:

FloorScore certification: This certification indicates that the flooring meets stringent indoor air quality standards.
GreenGuard certification: This certification ensures that the flooring does not emit harmful chemicals that can adversely affect indoor air quality.
Green Label Plus certification: This certification signifies that the flooring has low VOC emissions and meets the California Department of Public Health's standard for indoor air quality.

Consumer Reports Findings

Consumer Reports, a respected independent product testing organization, conducted a study on the safety of vinyl flooring in 2019. The study tested vinyl flooring samples from various manufacturers, including Lumber Liquidators. The results showed that the vinyl flooring samples from Lumber Liquidators met or exceeded industry standards for formaldehyde emissions and did not pose any significant health risks.

Conclusion

Based on the available information, vinyl flooring from Lumber Liquidators appears to be safe for use in residential and commercial settings. The company has implemented stringent quality control measures and obtained reputable product safety certifications to ensure the safety of its flooring. While it is always advisable to do your research and choose flooring that meets your specific needs and preferences, vinyl flooring from Lumber Liquidators can be a viable option for those seeking a durable, water-resistant, and stylish flooring solution.