Does grout still need to meet low emitting requirements? If so, both VOC content and emissions certification? The reference manual only seems to acknowledge it in Table 5 in the flooring system row. However, in the middle column Exceptions headed with Testing not required, grout appears and is noted as needing to meet requirements for adhesives and sealants. So are they trying to say that FloorScore testing is not required for grout but general emissions still is? In the low emitting spreadsheet, there is no pull down category for grouts that would populate a VOC content value.
So is grout a ceramic adhesive with a VOC content limit of 65 g/l? And does grout require a general emissions certification?
Paula Melton
Editorial DirectorBuildingGreen, Inc.
LEEDuser Expert
183 thumbs up
February 13, 2018 - 3:43 pm
Michelle, I believe grout must be included in calculations since it is a wet-applied product, is part of the flooring, and is not inherently non-emitting. Floor Score can count as your general emissions evaluation.
Cora Kenrick
Energy Engineering SpecialistJuly 25, 2018 - 3:06 pm
Hello,
Just checking to see if people are including grout?
Thanks
Victoria Herrero-Garcia
March 4, 2019 - 7:03 pm
https://www.usgbc.org/leedaddenda/100002195
Grout will be under the concrete category.
Stacey Olson
SW Regional Design Resilience LeaderGensler
16 thumbs up
April 7, 2023 - 3:09 pm
It must be included: Low-emitting materials, adhesives and sealants | U.S. Green Building Council (usgbc.org)