Published: August 28, 2009 09:08 am      

Shaw product receives certification

Epic hardwood, the innovative engineered hardwood brand from Shaw, has received the coveted Cradle to Cradle Silver Certification from McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry (MBDC). MBDC is a third-party product and design firm founded by architect William McDonough and chemist Dr. Michael Braungart.

MBDC’s Cradle to Cradle certification process looks at a number of factors that contribute to a product’s suitability, such as the use of environmentally safe and healthy materials, design for recycling, water and energy efficiency, and social responsibility.

Shaw is the first flooring manufacturer to earn C2C certification on hardwood flooring products.

Epic hardwood from Shaw is an environmentally responsible engineered hardwood. Epic’s inner layer, EnviroCore™, is made from post-industrial recycled content, making it one of the most sustainable engineered hardwood flooring products on the market.

Epic styles use approximately 50 percent less newly harvested wood than conventional 3/8"-inch engineered alternatives.

Veneers used in Epic are obtained from North American managed forests deemed sustainable by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and all styles are in compliance with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements. All Epic products also comply with the recently revised Lacey Act, the United States' national wildlife protection statute that has been amended to make it a criminal offense to import illegally logged timber products into the U.S.

In addition to its environmental benefits, Epic also offers distinct performance advantages. The product’s core creates a more dimensionally stable platform, and due to its increased humidity resistance, Epic is suitable for virtually any climate and can be installed at any grade level - even below - where solid hardwoods present problems. Shaw’s innovative tongue-and-groove system facilitates installation and results in tighter seams. And with a shorter acclimation period, elimination of seam gaps, and a highly durable finish that withstands even the toughest wear and tear, Epic is an excellent choice for premium construction installations.

“We’ve known since we introduced Epic that we had a special product, and we’re proud to have achieved C2C Certification from MBDC,” says Scott Sandlin, vice president of business development for Shaw’s Hard Surfaces division. “As more and more consumers ask for environmentally friendly products, Epic hardwood styles have become increasingly important.”