laminate ac rating Brentwood, Arnold, St. Louis, MO

Understanding Laminate AC Rating: A Guide to Choosing the Right Flooring

Laminate flooring in Brentwood and Arnold, MO is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a durable, versatile, and budget-friendly flooring option. When shopping for laminate flooring, you may come across the term "AC rating," which refers to the durability and wear resistance of the flooring. 
 

Dive into what laminate AC rating is, what it means for laminate flooring, and how to choose the right AC rating for your needs.
 

What is the laminate flooring AC rating

Laminate AC rating, or Abrasion Criteria rating, is a standardized system used to measure the durability and wear resistance of laminate flooring. The AC rating scale ranges from AC1 to AC5, with each rating representing a different level of durability and suitability for specific applications. The higher the AC rating, the more durable and resistant the laminate flooring is to wear, scratches, stains, and impact.
 

What does AC rating mean for laminate flooring? 

The AC rating of laminate flooring indicates its suitability for different levels of foot traffic and usage. Here's what each AC rating means:

  • AC1: Light residential use. Suitable for areas with minimal foot traffic, such as bedrooms or closets.
  • AC2: Moderate residential use. Suitable for areas with moderate foot traffic, such as living rooms or dining rooms.
  • AC3: Heavy residential use or light commercial use. Suitable for areas with high foot traffic, such as hallways, kitchens, or small offices.
  • AC4: General commercial use. Suitable for commercial spaces with moderate foot traffic, such as offices, boutiques, or cafes.
  • AC5: Heavy commercial use. Suitable for commercial spaces with heavy foot traffic, such as department stores, restaurants, or public buildings.
 

Understanding the AC rating of laminate flooring is essential for choosing the right flooring option for your specific needs and usage requirements.
 

How to choose the right laminate AC rating

When selecting laminate flooring, consider the following factors to determine the appropriate AC rating:
 

Laminate flooring usage

Determine the level of foot traffic and usage the laminate flooring will endure. For residential applications, consider the amount of activity in the space, including pets and children. For commercial applications, assess the level of foot traffic and wear expected in the area.
 

Location of laminate flooring 

Consider the location where the laminate flooring will be installed. High-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, and hallways require a higher AC rating to withstand wear and tear over time.
 

What is your budget?

While higher AC-rated laminate flooring tends to be more durable and long-lasting, it may also come with a higher price tag. Consider your budget and prioritize durability based on your specific needs and preferences.
 

Contact the laminate flooring experts in St. Louis, MO at Flooring Galaxy

Laminate AC rating is an essential factor to consider when choosing laminate flooring for your home or commercial space. Understanding the AC rating scale and its implications for durability and wear resistance can help you make an informed decision and select the right flooring option for your needs. 
 

If you're in the market for laminate flooring with the appropriate AC rating, visit or call Flooring Galaxy in Brentwood, MO and Arnold, MO. As a family-run, St. Louis-owned flooring retailer for over 10 years, we proudly serve the St. Louis, Arnold, Brentwood, Webster Groves, University City, and Kirkwood communities. Our team of flooring experts can help you explore laminate flooring options with the desired AC rating and find the perfect solution for your space. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.