To help users and specifiers make sound choices, the UPEC certification mark provides a simple product selection tool based on intended use. The CSTB issues UPEC certification, alone or in association with other certification marks, for textile, resilient, laminate and ceramic floor products.
UPEC-certified floor coverings are compliant with European product standards and the additional requirements of associated certifications. Obtaining the UPEC mark is a voluntary step taken by industrial companies to add value to their products. It means that the performance of each floor covering and its production site are monitored regularly by a neutral, independent body: the CSTB. UPEC certification has been issued to more than 180 audited manufacturing units, mainly in Europe but also around the world.
UPEC classification
UPEC classification indicates the type of premises in which floor covering will be installed: housing, offices, train stations and airports, businesses, hotels, educational institutions, hospitals and retirement homes.
A typology was established, room by room, for each building type to determine the required UPEC classification, based on intensity of use (CSTB Specifications No. 3509).
A floor covering is suitable for use when its UPEC classification is at least equal to that of the premises.
UPEC-certified performance levels
U – WEAR
Wear from foot traffic
- Compression
- Structural change
- Soiling
- Abrasion
- Scratching
P - PUNCHING
Mechanical effects
- Furniture (static effect, shifting and rolling)
- Falling objects (shocks)
Classification indices: P2, P3, P4 and P4S
E - WATER
Frequency of presence of water on the floor
- Occasional
- Frequent
- Systematic
Classification indices: E1, E2 and E3
C - CHEMICALS
Resistance to stains and chemical agents
Classification indices: C0, C1 and C2
Certifications issued by the CSTB: links to certification pages
- Textile floor coverings (NF UPEC)
- Resilient floor coverings (NF UPEC)
- Ceramic tiles for floor coverings (NF UPEC)
- Laminate floor covering systems (UPEC)
- 100% polyamide tufted and woven broadloom pile carpets (UPEC).
- Contact: marque-upec@cstb.fr
- Download the brochure: UPEC: quality mark for floor coverings
