AC Rating, used for laminate and vinyl floors, is a measure of a floor's resistance to abrasion, impact, and stains. These ratings also indicate that the floor has been tested for the effects of furniture legs, castors, and swelling along its edges. Any floor that has an AC rating will have passed all the test criteria, as failing just one will disqualify it.
What's the difference between AC ratings?
An AC1 rated floor is sensitive and should only be used in room that has very little foot traffic, whereas an AC5 rated floor will be sturdy enough to be used in the busiest environments - it can even be used in the most popular shopping centres! At UK Flooring Direct we only supply floors with an AC3 rating or above, so you can be confident that our entire laminate and vinyl ranges, no matter which you pick, will be durable enough to cope in any home.
Where can each rating be used?
AC1 - Residential, Moderate Traffic: Suitable for bedrooms or guest rooms
AC2 - Residential, General Traffic: Suitable for living rooms or dining rooms
AC3 - Residential, Heavy Traffic: Suitable for all areas
AC4 - Commercial, Moderate Traffic: Hotel rooms, small office
AC5 - Commercial, General Traffic: Office, boutique, café
Although floors with a rating of AC4 or AC5 are normally used in commercial settings, there is nothing to stop them being used in any home. What's more, you won't ever have to compromise on appearance for enhanced durability.
