Low-VOC Flooring.
Understand what’s underfoot.
A practical guide to flooring emissions, FloorScore® certification, and choosing a floor with professional installation in mind.
What is FloorScore? ↓What does low-VOC flooring mean?
VOCs—volatile organic compounds—are chemicals that can evaporate into indoor air. Flooring, adhesives, finishes, and other household materials can be sources. “Low-VOC flooring” generally describes flooring designed or tested to limit those emissions.
When comparing products, look for documented emissions testing for the specific collection you are buying. A third-party certification gives the claim more meaning than a broad description such as “green” or “natural.”
What is FloorScore?
Independent emissions testing
FloorScore is an indoor-air-quality certification program developed by SCS Global Services and the Resilient Floor Covering Institute. It covers hard-surface flooring, adhesives, and underlayments.
SCS says testing evaluates 35 individual VOCs using the California Standard Method. Certified products must meet the program’s emissions requirements and ongoing certification checks.
What the label tells you
FloorScore helps you identify a product that meets a defined indoor-emissions standard. It does not mean a floor contains no chemicals, emits nothing, or guarantees the air quality of an entire home.
Check that the current certificate covers your chosen product. The certification applies to the listed flooring or installation material—not automatically to the installer or every product sold by a brand.
Two collections to consider.
Flooret Modin
Flooret identifies Modin LVP as FloorScore and Assure certified. Explore Base and Signature colors, compare wear layers, and discuss physical samples for your home.
Explore Flooret Modin →CALI Builder’s Choice
Explore CALI Builder’s Choice flooring sourced through Green Design Center, including FloorScore-certified choices. Midwest LVP helps plan the product selection, preparation, and installation.
Explore CALI flooring →Certifications differ by collection. Flooret lists GREENGUARD Gold for its Silvan hardwood; that is a separate designation from Modin’s certifications.
Beyond the flooring box.
A flooring project includes more than the planks. Underlayment, adhesives, patching products, and finishes need to suit the selected floor and the conditions in your space. We plan around the subfloor, moisture requirements, and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
The EPA recommends ventilation and following product directions when remodeling with materials that may release pollutants. Discuss the installation schedule, ventilation, and any specific material concerns before work begins.
Midwest LVP provides professional installation planning for Waukesha, Brookfield, New Berlin, Pewaukee, Oconomowoc, Muskego, and nearby communities.
Before you choose your floor.
Does low-VOC mean non-toxic?
No. Low emissions under a defined test do not establish that a product is free of every potentially harmful substance. We describe the specific certification instead of promising “zero VOC” or universal safety.
Is FloorScore the same as GREENGUARD Gold?
No. They are distinct certification programs. Compare the certification attached to the exact product, rather than assuming every collection from a manufacturer carries the same label.
Can vinyl flooring be FloorScore certified?
Yes. Certified vinyl flooring is available, including the Modin collection identified by Flooret. Confirm the certificate and product specifications for the floor you select.
Does a floating floor still need installation planning?
Yes. Subfloor condition, moisture, approved underlayment, expansion space, and transitions still matter. Attached padding does not remove the need to follow the product’s instructions.
Can Midwest LVP help me compare floors?
Yes. Tell us about your rooms, existing flooring, location, and timeline. We can discuss the flooring choices we offer and plan a professional installation around your project.
Make an informed choice.
Explore low-VOC flooring with Midwest LVP and get a clear plan for your installation.
Request a free estimate ↗SCS Global Services: FloorScore · EPA: Indoor air quality · Flooret: Certifications by collection · CALI: 2026 product guide
Reviewed October 2026. Confirm current product documentation when choosing your floor.