Specify countertops that do not need to be sealed after installation, such as engineered stone, cultured marble, or solid surfacing. If using laminate, specify that the substrate be made with NAF (No Added Formaldehyde) or ULEF (Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde) resins. Avoid products marketed as antimicrobial and claiming or implying a health benefit. Prefer products with full disclosure of content through Health Product Declarations (HPDs).
Proposed procurement goals:
- At least 80% of countertops purchased by the municipality or used by contractors meet the HomeFree Green or Yellow level
- Preference given to products with publicly available information to encourage the use of building products that are working to minimize their environmental and health impacts
- Material ingredients documentation demonstrating the chemical inventory of the product to at least 0.1% (1,000 ppm) with all content characterized and screened
Case studies and resources:
- HomeFree countertop hazard and rating system
- HomeFree Spec Guidance
- Massachusetts' Multifamily New Construction Design Requirements and Guidelines requires “all medium-density fiberboard (MFD) used in cabinetry and countertops shall be formaldehyde-free.”
- Toxic-Free Future's Healthy Materials Matrix provides guidance for purchasing healthier building materials.