Lumber Liquidators opens testing facility

The 1 million-square-foot distribution center, which employs 100 people, became fully operational in January.

The Toana-based company said in a statement that it is one of the only flooring retailers to install and operate a lab with emission-testing capabilities to ensure the quality of its products.

It also said it has a network of lab facilities in the U.S. and Asia performing full-scale product evaluations and testing.

The latest facility comes as the company’s headquarters was raided in September 2013 by federal agents for allegedly importing illegally harvested lumber from far eastern Russia. That probe is ongoing. The company has maintained its innocence.

The testing lab enhances a nine-step quality-assurance program that has been in place for years at Lumber Liquidators, the company said, reflecting its ongoing commitment to safety and compliance.

“Quality and safety have always been top priorities for our associates and our customers,” President and Chief Executive Officer Robert M. Lynch said in a statement. He said Lumber Liquidators has delivered on those priorities — “and we will continue to invest in these important areas as we move forward.”

Lumber Liquidators announced a new sustainability policy last year. In a release last fall, it said the policy includes DNA testing of harvested timber, internal and external lumber audits, and a move toward more sourcing within North America and away from regions considered to have lower oversight.

Lumber Liquidators, which has about 350 locations in North America, features solid and engineered hardwood, bamboo, cork, laminate and resilient vinyl. The company also provides flooring enhancements and accessories to complement, install and maintain floors.

Its premier brands include Bellawood and Morning Star Bamboo, and its flooring is often featured on television shows, such as “This Old House” and HGTV’s “Dream Home.”

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