The giant flooring retailer, Floor & Decor®, is currently under investigation for selling laminate flooring that violates the allowable formaldehyde standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The flooring was sold as compliant with the California Air Regulatory Board, when this is in fact false. Legal claims are being filed by consumers who purchased laminate flooring from Floor & Decor® due to the health risks associated with installing the material in the home. Claims allege the flooring may also be defective.
Floor & Decor® was founded in 2000. With their headquarters in Atlanta, the megastores are accessible to homeowners and professional contractors. Floor & Decor® boasts warehouse prices with showroom quality and a wide array of flooring materials. Yet, the company is the subject of claims that some of the material they have sold is not in compliance with laws that are set to avert serious health problems from dangerous emissions, and is incorrectly labeled as safe.
Formaldehyde is a chemical compound that occurs naturally. It is also manufactured for industrial use in many everyday products, such as wood flooring. Specifically, urea formaldehyde resin is an adhesive that presses veneers and wood particles together in the flooring material. Standards continue to evolve regarding allowable levels of this adhesive in flooring, but the California Air Regulatory Board has had the strictest standards in the United States. These standards under review nationally, and may be copied and enforced nationwide by the Environmental Protection Agency. Still, certain laminate flooring sold by Floor & Decor® allegedly exceeds levels set by both agencies, putting customers at risk for health problems.
Some people have more severe reactions to formaldehyde than others. The compound is proven to trigger asthma attacks, however. The most common health problems associated with formaldehyde are respiratory symptoms such as wheezing and coughing, skin rashes, fatigue and headaches, and eye, nose, and throat irritation. Severe allergic reactions that may be life threatening are possible. Formaldehyde is also a suspected carcinogen. The most dangerous period is when the tainted product is first laid in the home, as formaldehyde levels decrease with time.
Mislabeled formaldehyde levels on products purchased for the home is a serious issue. Consumers should be protected from fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair practices during the course of any purchase or trade.
Article Type: InvestigationTopic: Consumer
