Laminate Flooring: Austria-Made, Safe Choice For Your Home?

Laminate flooring is a popular and affordable flooring option, but is it safe? This question has been the subject of debate and investigation, particularly regarding laminate flooring made in China. In 2015, a news report by 60 Minutes claimed that Chinese-made laminate flooring sold by Lumber Liquidators contained formaldehyde levels six to seven times higher than California state regulations. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, and this finding raised serious health concerns. However, it is unclear if laminate flooring made in Austria has similar issues. KAINDL, the largest laminate flooring exporter in Austria, is known for its passion for wood and innovative products, but specific information about the safety of their products is not readily available. As regulations and standards vary by country, it is essential to consider the source and conduct independent research to ensure the safety of laminate flooring for your home or project.

Laminate flooring from Austria: is it safe?

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, ease of installation, and aesthetic appeal. When it comes to the safety of laminate flooring, one of the primary concerns is the presence of harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde, which can pose health risks. So, is laminate flooring made in Austria safe? Let's take a closer look.

Austria is known for its high-quality wood products, and its laminate flooring industry is no exception. Austrian companies, such as Kaindl, based in Salzburg, are renowned for their innovative and quality laminate flooring products. They prioritise the use of wood as a natural raw material, which not only enhances the aesthetic value but also ensures a safer and more environmentally friendly option compared to some other materials.

However, it is important to understand that not all laminate flooring is created equal. While Austrian laminate flooring may have a positive reputation, it is essential to conduct proper due diligence when choosing any flooring product. One of the critical aspects to consider is the level of formaldehyde present in the laminate.

Formaldehyde is a volatile organic compound (VOC) commonly found in various building materials, including laminate flooring. Prolonged exposure to high levels of formaldehyde can be harmful to human health, as it is a known irritant and carcinogen. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that any laminate flooring you choose complies with regulatory standards for formaldehyde emissions.

In the case of Austrian laminate flooring, the specific regulations and safety standards followed by manufacturers are essential. Reputable companies will adhere to strict guidelines to ensure their products are safe for consumers. However, it is always recommended that consumers conduct their own research and purchase products from trusted sources that provide transparent information about their manufacturing processes and product safety.

In summary, while Austrian laminate flooring is generally associated with high quality and craftsmanship, it is essential to prioritise safety when making your purchasing decision. Look for companies that are transparent about their practices, conduct third-party testing, and comply with relevant health and safety standards. By being an informed consumer, you can ensure that your chosen laminate flooring product is not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe for you and your family.

Formaldehyde in laminate flooring

Formaldehyde is a chemical often found in laminate flooring. It is typically present at low levels, usually less than 0.03 parts per million (ppm) in both outdoor and indoor air. However, residences or offices with products that release formaldehyde into the air can have levels greater than 0.03 ppm. Formaldehyde levels in indoor spaces can vary depending on temperature, humidity, and air exchange rates.

Formaldehyde is known to cause a variety of adverse health effects, including eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation, coughing, wheezing, and allergic reactions. Long-term exposure to high levels of formaldehyde has been linked to cancer in humans and laboratory animals. Some individuals are more sensitive to formaldehyde than others, and the effects can vary depending on the level of exposure and individual susceptibility.

If you have laminate flooring, it is not necessarily a cause for concern, as the amount of formaldehyde present can vary depending on the manufacturing process. However, if you or your family members are experiencing any symptoms that you believe may be related to formaldehyde exposure, it is recommended to consult a physician and your local health department for guidance.

To reduce formaldehyde levels in indoor spaces, it is advised to increase ventilation, keep temperature and humidity levels low, and choose products with low or no formaldehyde content for future purchases.

Laminate flooring brands to avoid

When it comes to laminate flooring, it is essential to choose a reputable brand and installer to ensure a long-lasting and satisfactory result. While laminate floors can be a wonderful addition to your home, providing a natural wood look that complements any decorating scheme, it is important to be cautious about where you source your laminate floor products and installation services.

Lowe's Laminate Flooring

Lowe's, a well-known home improvement store, is not recommended for laminate flooring purchases or installations. Despite their significant financial success, they have a poor reputation for floor installation. Customer reviews of Lowe's flooring are overwhelmingly negative, citing issues such as missed appointments and unprofessional workers. Additionally, some customers have reported being overcharged or not receiving the services they paid for. Moreover, Lowe's employees are not flooring experts, and their lack of specialised knowledge can lead to unsatisfactory outcomes.

Home Depot Laminate Flooring

Home Depot is another large home improvement store that has faced customer complaints and legal issues related to their laminate flooring products. News Inferno reported on a pending class-action lawsuit, with customers complaining about warped planks that were challenging to install and of poor quality. Professional floor contractors have joined in on the criticism, stating that Home Depot's laminate flooring was the worst to install due to a significant proportion of warped and unusable planks. One customer shared their experience in Consumer Affairs magazine, detailing how the Home Depot-sent workers installed flooring in the wrong rooms, made uneven cuts, and failed to reinstall toilets after bathroom flooring work.

Alternative Recommendations

Instead of opting for laminate flooring from Lowe's or Home Depot, consider seeking out specialised flooring companies that offer a wide range of high-quality flooring options. For installation, it is advisable to engage the services of experienced flooring installers who can ensure a professional and proper installation. Remember, the durability of your laminate floor heavily depends on the quality of the materials used and the expertise of the installation team.

Laminate flooring brands that are safe

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability, ease of maintenance, and wide range of styles. However, it's important to consider safety when choosing laminate flooring, as some products may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, causing respiratory issues and other health problems. To help you select a safe option, here are some trusted laminate flooring brands known for their durability, style, and commitment to health:

Newton

Newton is a leader in non-toxic home solutions, focusing on health, sustainability, and durability. Their products are GREENGUARD Gold-certified, ensuring minimal VOC emissions and safe indoor air quality. The Clearwater Collection, in particular, offers exquisite wood and stone-look products with scratch-resistant designs, making it a top choice for busy households.

Mannington

Mannington is committed to health, sustainability, and quality. Their laminate flooring is FloorScore-certified, guaranteeing low VOC emissions and meeting strict indoor air quality standards. The Restoration Collection, with its SpillShield Plus Waterproof Technology, is suitable even for kitchens and bathrooms. Mannington is also dedicated to making beautiful designs, with options like Historic Oak, which captures the character and depth of reclaimed wood.

Liberty Home

Liberty Home combines eco-conscious design with quality craftsmanship. Their laminate flooring is FloorScore-certified for low VOC emissions and meets CARB standards for formaldehyde control. The Independence Collection offers a perfect blend of style and functionality, with a wide range of colours and looks, and an AC4 durability rating that makes it suitable for both residential and commercial use.

Pergo

As the pioneer of laminate flooring, Pergo is known for its durability, style, and innovations. Their ScratchGuard Advanced Technology protects against scuffs, scratches, and wear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. The TimberCraft Collection, with its natural oak textures and rich colour variations, is a popular choice. Pergo also offers waterproof options with a lifetime surface and subfloor warranty.

Mohawk

Mohawk stands out for its commitment to sustainability, using recycled materials and eco-friendly production methods. Their RevWood Collection offers superior resilience to wear and tear while maintaining a fashionable appearance, making it ideal for families needing robust yet attractive flooring solutions. The TecWood Collection, a hybrid of laminate and engineered wood, is also worth considering.

AquaGuard

AquaGuard has revolutionised waterproof laminate with advanced moisture-resistant technology. They offer two lines: Standard AquaGuard and AquaGuard Performance, both featuring AC-5 wear ratings suitable for homes and businesses. Their products are GreenGuard Gold-certified, ensuring excellent indoor air quality.

TrafficMaster

TrafficMaster offers DIY-friendly laminate flooring exclusively found at Home Depot. Their products balance affordability with practical features and simple installation. TrafficMaster's laminate flooring is known for its embossed surfaces for slip resistance, scratch-resistant wear layer for durability, and edge coating to prevent moisture damage.

STAINMASTER

STAINMASTER has changed the game with its ACTIVELIFE SHIELD™ technology, delivering exceptional stain and wear resistance. Their innovative surface treatment provides up to 3x more wear resistance than standard residential-grade laminate, making it perfect for high-traffic areas. The Bergen Bronze Oak finish adds a modern country feel to any space.

Dream Home

Dream Home is a top choice for budget-conscious homeowners, offering quality laminate flooring at just $1.00 per square foot. Their products feature GREENGUARD Gold Certification for low emissions, superior stain resistance, a water-tight locking system, and an AC4 rating for better durability. The Shadow Sail Oak Collection showcases sophisticated design and masterful colour variations.

Regulations for laminate flooring

Laminate flooring is regulated by a set of standards designed to ensure product quality and consumer safety. In the late 1990s, the EU introduced the standard EN 13329, which outlines specific requirements for laminate floor coverings. This standard includes a classification system, indicating the suitable areas and conditions for laminate floors.

The classification system is based on EN 685 and categorises laminate flooring based on intended use, ranging from domestic to commercial and industrial environments. Classes 21 to 23 indicate that a laminate floor is suitable for domestic use, with the second digit further subdividing this category into 'light', 'moderate', and 'very intensive' domestic use. Classes 31 to 34 are for 'commercial' use, and classes 41 to 43 are for industrial environments.

Manufacturers of laminate flooring are legally required to clearly label their products with the appropriate classification. This ensures that consumers can make informed choices when purchasing laminate flooring, knowing that their selected product is suitable for their intended use.

The EU regulations also specify test methods and characteristics requirements, ensuring that laminate flooring meets certain quality and performance standards. While these rules may sometimes seem excessive, they are generally designed to protect consumers and improve their living and working conditions.

Frequently asked questions