Joint compound used to install drywall is not covered under this credit. Companies that produce certified drywall typically also have certified joint compound to go with it. It’s a good idea to use that low-emitting drywall, even though you don’t have to document it.

Check cut sheets to make sure the specific product meets the IEQc4.6 requirements. (See Resources.) 

Greenguard Children and Schools and Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) Indoor Advantage Gold certified products meet the requirements for this standard. Products that meet the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) and California Section 01350 standards also meet the requirements for this credit. Drywall is under the “General Construction Materials” category in the Greenguard database—products from most major brands are listed.

When researching low-emitting products, double-check that the manufacturer’s product information is not misleading. A common example is a product cut sheet that states “this is a low emitting product,” without providing information on its testing standards. 

Researching compliant, low-emitting products before construction helps to ensure that you earn this credit. If product decisions are made before the construction stage, there is less risk of using a noncompliant product. Once a project enters the construction phase, there may not be time for proper product review or testing. 

A product you typically use might not comply with the credit requirements. You might have to commission third-party testing to verify compliance. If this is the case, start the testing process early and check how long it will take to have testing performed. (See Guidelines on Small-Scale Chamber Testing Procedures in the Documentation Toolkit.)

Research compliant products.

Address this credit early, and verify that design needs can be met by available, compliant products. 

This is an all-or-nothing credit addressing ceiling and wall systems: all gypsum board, insulation, acoustic ceiling systems, and wall coverings in the interior of the building. If even one sheet of gypsum board does not comply, you will not earn the credit. 

You can only earn four of the six available points, so deciding your project’s LEED focus early in the design phase helps to guide specifying and purchasing the correct products.