Laminate Flooring Surface AC Rating is an important factor to consider when selecting a flooring material. AC stands for "Abrasion Class," and it is a measure of a floor's resistance to wear and tear. The higher the AC rating, the more durable and long-lasting the flooring will be. This is particularly important in high-traffic areas, such as entryways, hallways, and commercial spaces, where the flooring will be subject to heavy use.
The rating is determined by a series of tests that simulate the effects of foot traffic, impact, and scratches. The higher the AC rating, the more durable and resistant to wear the laminate flooring is.
What Are The Differences of Laminate Flooring Surface AC Rating?
Here is a breakdown of the different AC ratings:
- AC2: This rating is considered to be the lowest level of durability, suitable for light residential use. Laminate flooring with an AC2 rating may not be suitable for high-traffic areas or homes with children or pets.
- AC3: This rating is considered to be suitable for moderate residential use and light commercial use. Laminate flooring with an AC3 rating is more durable than AC2 and can withstand more foot traffic and impact.
- AC4: This rating is considered to be suitable for heavy residential use and moderate commercial use. Laminate flooring with an AC4 rating is even more durable than AC3 and can withstand even more foot traffic and impact.
- AC5: This rating is considered to be the most durable and suitable for heavy commercial use. Laminate flooring with an AC5 rating can withstand the highest level of foot traffic and impact.
For a home, an AC3 or AC4 rating is generally recommended, as it will provide a good balance of durability and affordability. For commercial environments, an AC4 or AC5 rating is recommended to withstand heavy foot traffic and impact.
If you have young children or large pets, an AC4 or AC5 rating is recommended to ensure that the laminate flooring can withstand the potential scratches and dents that may occur. These ratings are more resistant to scratches, impact, and wear.
It's important to note that even with an AC5 rating, laminate flooring may still get scratched, so it is always recommended to use furniture protectors to avoid dragging heavy furniture across the floor and to always clean any spills immediately.
Laminate Flooring Surface AC Rating Wrap Up
Knowing the AC rating of a floor can help you choose a material that is suitable for the intended use and will save you money and time in the long run. Additionally, if the space is intended to be used for commercial or public areas, building codes may require a specific AC rating for flooring.
Other flooring blog articles you may want to read:
LAMINATE, VINYL, AND ENGINEERED HARDWOOD FLOORING OPTIONS: WHAT MAKES THEM DIFFERENT?
A GUIDE TO THE BEST FLOORING FOR HIGH-TRAFFIC AREAS