If you're looking into FloorScore® certified flooring, you're probably concerned about safety, health, or compliance. FloorScore® is a label that appears on many modern flooring products, but what exactly does it mean?
In simple terms, a FloorScore® certification helps you identify products that meet indoor air quality standards. It ensures the flooring used in your space is tested for low emissions, especially when it comes to VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can be harmful when inhaled over time.
In schools, offices, hospitals, and other indoor settings, a FloorScore® certificate can help create a healthier environment for the people who use it every day. And if your build needs to meet green standards like LEED, FloorScore® may even help you qualify. At AMARCO Products, we focus on helping commercial clients find safe, durable flooring options that meet national air quality standards. We’re also here to inform you!
Why FloorScore® Certification Matters for Indoor Air Quality
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air. People spend most of their time inside, which makes air quality a serious concern, especially in schools, commercial buildings, and healthcare facilities.
Poor air quality often starts with the building materials themselves. Floors and adhesives can release VOCs like formaldehyde or benzene, which can trigger respiratory issues and long-term health effects. FloorScore-certified flooring is designed to meet strict limits on these emissions, helping reduce exposure and supporting safer indoor environments. Third-party labs verify all FloorScore® certifications and follow nationally recognized emissions standards.
Understanding the FloorScore® Certification Process and Emissions Criteria
FloorScore® certification was developed by SCS Global Services, working alongside the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI). This independent certification tests hard surface flooring for chemical emissions that affect air quality.
The certification process includes:
- Evaluation of adhesives, coatings, and base materials.
- A FloorScore® certificate involves rigorous review, including lab testing of materials and adhesives for chemical safety in compliance with California Section 01350, a tough emissions standard.
- Independent laboratory analysis of off-gassed chemicals.
- Ongoing audits to verify continued compliance.
Only products that pass this process receive the FloorScore® label. This lets builders, architects, and buyers know the product meets one of the most recognized indoor air quality standards in the world.
What FloorScore® Certification Means for LEED, CHPS, and Green Building
FloorScore® certification plays an important role in green building and sustainability programs. Holding a FloorScore® certificate may also give architects and designers greater flexibility when selecting eco-conscious materials for public or private use.
According to the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED v4 includes credits for low-emitting materials, and FloorScore-certified products are one way to meet those criteria. It’s also recognized in:
- WELL Building Standard
- CHPS (for K–12 schools)
- BREEAM (for global projects)
Whether you're designing for energy efficiency or health-first environments, this certification supports multiple green building goals.
AMARCO Products Offers FloorScore® Certified Flooring in New Jersey
As a trusted New Jersey flooring company, AMARCO Products supplies a full range of FloorScore® certified flooring options for commercial clients across Central and Northern NJ, including Warren, Newark, and Edison.
Our certified flooring solutions include:
- Rubber flooring for schools and rec centers
- Resilient vinyl options for hospitals and high-traffic spaces
- Adhesive systems that meet VOC emissions limits
We’ve helped countless teams align with building codes, wellness standards, and indoor air quality goals, without sacrificing performance or design.
Common Questions About FloorScore® Certification
What is FloorScore®?
FloorScore® is a third-party certification program that tests and approves flooring products based on their impact on indoor air quality.
What does a FloorScore® certification mean?
A FloorScore® certification means the product meets low-VOC emissions criteria as defined by California Section 01350 and verified by independent testing labs.
Does FloorScore® help with LEED?
Yes. FloorScore® certified flooring can help meet LEED v4 credits for low-emitting materials, as part of green building goals.
Is AMARCO’s flooring certified?
Yes. We provide FloorScore® certified commercial flooring solutions that support air quality, durability, and code compliance.
What kinds of floors can be certified?
Hardwood, rubber, vinyl, and other resilient flooring types, plus underlayments and adhesives, can be FloorScore® certified.
Ask AMARCO Products About FloorScore® Certified Options
Choosing the right floor for your space should never mean compromising on safety. At AMARCO Products, we offer a wide selection of FloorScore-certified solutions that support wellness, sustainability, and long-term durability.
If you’re a facility manager, builder, or architect in New Jersey, we can help you find products that meet your project's goals without the confusion. Whether you’re matching LEED documentation or just want to breathe easier, we’re here to help.
When indoor air quality matters, choosing flooring with a FloorScore® certificate is one of the smartest, easiest decisions you can make.
Contact us today to see our flooring options and find out what we can do for you! If you’d like to learn more about flooring and standards, feel free to read our blog.
Sources:
- SCS Global Services, What is FloorScore® Certification? - https://www.scsglobalservices.com/services/floorscore
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) - https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq
- U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED v4 Guide - https://www.usgbc.org/leed/v4