One of the most important factors a do it yourself flooring installer will discover, is the importance of matching the quality of the laminate flooring installation to the area in which it will be used. A higher traffic room calls for a more robust range. One indication of the suitability of a particular line for a specific area is its Abrasion Class Rating, or AC Rating. This symbol makes it easy to understand the characteristics and wearability of a particular flooring product.
If it is a residential flooring solution, the AC Rating will be indicated with a house symbol. In the case of a commercial product, the pictograph will show a building. In addition, next to this symbol, will be a picture of people, the number indicating the traffic intensity the flooring has been manufactured for. In the case of a do it yourself novice, the availability of the AC Rating simplifies the selection process significantly.
The AC RAting was developed by The European Producers of Laminate Flooring (EPLF). It is a clear and easily understandable indication of a laminate flooring installation's ability to withstand stress, wear, impact, burns, stains, scratches, etc. Swelling of the core is also examined. The tests done on the flooring also ascertain to what degree it can resist damage done by furniture feet or casters. Once the tests have been done, the results are used to determine for which areas the particular flooring product will be suitable. The rating gives concrete proof of the wearability of a particular range.
AC1 indicates suitability for use in residential bedrooms and guest rooms with moderate traffic. AC2 lines thrive happily on the activity in living rooms and dining rooms. AC3 is robust enough for heavy traffic in any residential space. Test AC4 flooring in commercial settings such as a small office or restaurant where the traffic is moderate. AC5 is used on tough-as-nails lines, which make it suitable for heavy traffic areas in public buildings and department stores.
For residential purposes it isn't necessarily helpful to opt for too high an AC rating. The higher the rating, the rougher the texture of the flooring will be. If you opt for higher AC status, your poor feet and socks will soon complain about the rough treatment... Most of the residential ranges such as Pergo Flooring come with an AC Rating of 3, which is quite adequate.
The new, glueless click-together laminate flooring tiles or planks are sought after by do it yourself novices. But even here, you will discover differences. Be sure to test the mechanism before you decide on a particular brand. Run your hand over the joint that is formed. It must be perfectly smooth. If one side is higher than the other, look for another brand.
Some manufacturers make use of a hinged concept that can sometimes be tricky around doors and cabinets. Some rookies may be more comfortable by opting for a flat clicking process. Look for a range where a certain amount of pressure will be needed. If the planks snap together with too much ease, the joints won't fit tightly together, creating a moisture penetration risk, as well as an unprofessional finish.
As long as you investigate reliable and reputable companies, such as Pergo Laminate Flooring, Armstrong Flooring or Trafficmaster Flooring, the locking mechanism should function effectively.
Pergo Flooring sports a dual-locking click installation system, complete with edge sealant. This is one of the most popular ranges on the market. Mohawk Flooring features the patented Instaclic glueless system. The tongue and groove boards snap together at an angle, or can slide together.
Armstrong Flooring's ArmaLock Installation System is claimed to be one of the most durable locking systems in the industry. The company guarantees the joints not to unlock for 20 to 30 years. Mannington Flooring uses the MLock profile system for easy installation. The sealant used on all the planks ensure excellent moisture resistance.
The TrafficMaster Allure Flooring plank has a GripStrip that is simply laid onto the next plank and then pressed together. If you opt for swiftlock Kronotex Flooring, you can choose between the Click Lock and Clic 2 Clic designs.