Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," are synthetic compounds renowned for their durability and resistance to degradation. Their persistence in the environment and potential health risks have raised significant concerns — including in the flooring industry.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are a large group of man-made chemicals that have been in use since the 1940s. Their unique chemical structure imparts resistance to heat, water, and oil, making them valuable in numerous industrial and consumer applications. However, this same stability means they do not break down easily in the environment, leading to their accumulation over time.
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health issues, including liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, and increased risk of certain cancers. Their prevalence in the environment and potential for bioaccumulation have made them a focal point for environmental health and safety discussions.
PFAS in Flooring Finishes
One often-overlooked source of PFAS is flooring finishes, particularly in water- and stain-resistant treatments applied to hardwood floors. These finishes are valued for their ability to protect flooring from wear and tear, but they can also introduce PFAS into homes and the environment. As consumers become more aware of the potential health risks, demand for PFAS-free flooring options has risen.
Minnesota's Legislative Response: Amara's Law
Minnesota has enacted pioneering legislation aimed at reducing and eventually eliminating the use of PFAS in consumer products. The legislation, known as Amara's Law, is structured in two key phases:
Phase One (Effective January 1, 2025)
Prohibits the sale or distribution of new products containing intentionally added PFAS in 11 specific categories, including carpets or rugs, cleaning products, cookware, cosmetics, dental floss, fabric treatments, juvenile products, menstruation products, textile furnishings, ski wax, and upholstered furniture.
Phase Two (Effective January 1, 2032)
Extends the prohibition to all products containing intentionally added PFAS, unless the use is deemed essential for health, safety, or the functioning of society and no safer alternatives are available.
Choosing PFAS-Free Flooring
- Look for water-based finishes that are free from harmful chemicals
- Choose brands that are transparent about their chemical composition
- Look for GREENGUARD Gold or FloorScore certifications
- Ask your flooring supplier about PFAS-free options
- Consider natural oil finishes as an alternative to synthetic coatings
PFAS and Michigan: Why This Matters Locally
Michigan has a particular connection to PFAS contamination. The state has identified over 200 PFAS-contaminated sites — among the highest in the nation — largely due to industrial manufacturing and military base activity. Michigan's PFAS Action Plan is one of the most aggressive in the country, with some of the strictest drinking water standards for PFAS compounds.
For Michigan homeowners, this context makes PFAS-free flooring choices more meaningful. While flooring is not the primary PFAS exposure pathway (contaminated water is far more significant), choosing PFAS-free flooring finishes and materials is a reasonable precaution — particularly for families with young children who spend time on the floor.
The good news: the flooring industry has been moving away from PFAS-containing finishes for years. Water-based polyurethane finishes (like Bona Traffic HD and Fabulon Brilliant) are PFAS-free. Many LVP brands have reformulated their wear layer coatings to eliminate PFAS. GREENGUARD Gold and FloorScore certifications both screen for harmful chemical emissions including PFAS-related compounds.
PFAS-Free Flooring Options at Quality Hardwoods of Michigan
| Flooring Type | PFAS Status | Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Hardwood with water-based finish | PFAS-free finish options available | GREENGUARD Gold, FloorScore |
| Karndean LVT | No intentionally added PFAS | FloorScore, GREENGUARD |
| COREtec LVP | No intentionally added PFAS | FloorScore, GREENGUARD Gold |
| Kentwood Engineered | FSC certified, low-emission finishes | GREENGUARD Gold |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does flooring contain PFAS?
Some flooring products have historically contained PFAS — particularly in stain-resistant treatments applied to carpet and in certain LVP wear layer coatings. Hardwood flooring finishes have generally been PFAS-free, especially water-based polyurethane finishes. The flooring industry has been actively reformulating products to eliminate PFAS, and many brands now explicitly certify their products as PFAS-free.
What certifications indicate PFAS-free flooring?
GREENGUARD Gold certification (UL Environment) and FloorScore certification (SCS Global Services) both screen for harmful chemical emissions including PFAS-related compounds. These are the most reliable third-party certifications for low-emission, safer flooring products. Look for these logos when evaluating flooring options.
Where can I buy PFAS-free flooring in Michigan?
Quality Hardwoods of Michigan in Rochester Hills carries a wide range of PFAS-free flooring options including water-based hardwood finishes, GREENGUARD Gold certified LVP, and FSC-certified engineered hardwood. Visit our showroom at 1799 Northfield Dr, Rochester Hills, MI 48309 or call (248) 853-2232 for guidance on the safest flooring choices for your Michigan home.
Shop PFAS-Free Flooring in Michigan
Quality Hardwoods of Michigan offers a wide range of PFAS-free flooring finishes and materials. Visit us in Rochester Hills to find eco-friendly flooring solutions.