What AC Rating stands for?

A lot of people assume that because a certain laminate is thicker or has a longer warranty, that it is more durable and longer-lasting. This is not necessarily the case. That is why the European Producers of Laminate Flooring (EPLF) has developed the Abrasion Ration System. Every laminate is rated based on a series of rigorous tests, including Tabor Abrasion Test, burn resistance, impact resistance, stain resistance, and swelling under moist conditions. EPLF adopted a standard based rating which helps buyers understand the differences in durability among laminate flooring products.

First question you should ask about your laminate is its AC number. For higher traffic choose higher AC number, this way you can safely enjoy your new floor for years to come without worry. AC rating system starts with lowest AC1 designed for very low residential traffic. We do not recommend laminate with this rating for any interior. Most of the AC1 or AC2 rated laminate comes from China and its known for low quality. Most popular for any residential application is laminate with AC3 ratings. You have to know that AC3 has two subcategories AC3/23 -suitable for heavy residential traffic and AC3/31 -designed for heavy residential and light commercial use. AC scale ends on AC5 rating- this rating is designed for commercial applications like stores, coffee shops and all kind of places with very heavy traffic.

AC1 /21-Moderate Residential- Floors with this rating are suitable only for moderate residential use such as a bedroom or a closet

AC2/22 General Residential- Suitable for “normal residential” applications such as living rooms and dinning rooms.

AC3 /23 Heavy Residential – Good for all residential applications

AC3 /31 Moderate Commercial – Suitable for all residential applications plus light commercial such as hotel rooms or small offices

AC4 /32 General Commercial- Use for all residential plus general commercial applications such as offices, boutiques and cafes

AC5 /33 Heavy Commercial – Good for all residential applications plus heavy commercial applications such as public buildings, department stores etc.