![]() “We sent the samples for testing at two certified labs. While every box of laminate flooring Lumber Liquidators sells carries this label – stating its CARB Phase 2 Compliant, the Chinese-made laminate flooring that is selling nationwide from this company contains high levels of formaldehyde. However, the news report claims their statement is in fact false. On their website, Lumber Liquidators promises all of their flooring “meets or exceeds rigorous emission standards” and they say “we not only comply with laws, we exceed them.”Īs a consumer, one is likely to take that information at face-value. “Lumber Liquidators insists its Chinese-made laminate flooring is safe, but it doesn’t appear that way based on what we learned from our own reporting…” The chemical is a known cancer-causing agent, and is used as glue when manufacturing laminate and engineered wood floors.įalse figures wave red flagsWhen Lumber Liquidators was investigated, it was reported that most of the U.S company’s laminate flooring has been made in China, which may fail to meet health and safety standards. In fact, tests done by the Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association found high levels of formaldehyde in flooring that was made in China and sold in North America. Those purchasing overseas flooring cannot be guaranteed the product has not been chemically treated or that it is free of contaminants that can be harmful to one’s health. While flooring imported from China may be on the cheaper side compared to competitors in the U.S and Europe, the old adage of ‘you get what you pay for’ certainly rings true.īecause government regulations in overseas countries differ from those in North America, standards for safe, quality flooring are not the same as in Europe or North America. The Flooring Cost FactorHaving quickly positioned themselves in the Canadian and American market, China is one of the world’s biggest producers of wood flooring. ![]() flooring made in North America and Europe. So, before making final flooring selection, let’s compare flooring in China vs. In addition to the lower price tag, many consumers are in the dark about the serious health and safety issues involving products purchased overseas. The truth is that some of the unsafe manufacturing practises used in overseas countries allow a larger amount of goods to be produced at a lower cost, making them more desirable – or attainable – to some consumers. Lumber Liquidators linked to Health and Safety ViolationsTable of Contents So, why do companies continue to purchase the materials from China? And, why do consumers still continue to support them? Great question! senator called on federal agencies to investigate, and the company’s stock plunged due to the negative coverage. The story alleged the laminate-flooring material sold by the company didn’t meet emission standards for the dangerous cancer-causing chemical – formaldehyde.įormaldehyde is an industrial chemical used to make other chemicals and different types of products, such as: home furnishings, household cleaners, paints, textiles, landscape and yard products, medicinal and personal care products, and pesticides.Īs a result of the story, a U.S. The U.S company has been linked to numerous health and safety violations, as reported by 60 minutes back in March of 2015. Due to differing regulations and standards, one might not realize exactly what it is they are paying for – even when it’s a locally based company you’re dealing with. The truth is, flooring purchased overseas may save you money, but there’s the risk paying a high price in the long run. Aside from longevity, the health of one’s family and the environment at large also come into play. This especially rings true for those who want their floors to last for the long haul. ![]() ![]() From plush carpet and ultra modern tile to sleek hardwood or vinyl, one can customize the look of their home from the ground up.Īnd while material, colour and installation are important factors to take into consideration, the origins of the product (whether it is from a local or overseas manufacturer) is certainly worth pausing over. When it comes to flooring, there are plenty of options. The estimated reading time for this post is 5 minutes
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