Shopping for flooring on your own can be overwhelming enough. When you hear terms like AC rating, wear layer and select grade getting tossed around, you might start to worry. However, by educating yourself, you understand flooring grades and make a smart investment in your home.
Each flooring material is graded differently. What do they mean and how do you pick the right grade for your needs lifestyle? Let us tell you how.
What Flooring Grades Mean for Each Material
Flooring grades determine the durability, appearance and wear resistance of a material. Each one has its own grading system. It will help you determine the right flooring for your home. Here’s what you need to know about each one.
- Hardwood grades determine how clean or rustic the wood looks.
- Laminate grade (AC ratings) tell you how much wear and tear the floor can withstand.
- Vinyl grades are based on the thickness of the protective wear layer.
- Tile grades (PEI ratings) show how durable the tile is in different spaces.
Each flooring grade is unique. By understanding each one, you can choose the flooring that makes the most sense for you. We will learn about each flooring grading system next.
Hardwood Flooring Grades
Hardwood flooring is graded based on how it looks. The variation, knots and natural character in the planks make a difference. They are divided based on the following criteria:
- Select Grade: These planks are uniform and consistent with few knots or color changes. They make sense of elegant, upscale spaces.
- Natural Grade (#1 Common): There is a bit of variation in tone and texture. It is often called a middle ground and works in most spaces.
- Rustic Grade (#2 Common): Known for its sense of character, knots, color changes and bold grain patterns, these planks work well in casual rooms.
Laminate Flooring Grades
Laminate uses the AC (Abrasion Criteria) rating. It determines durability, which ranges from light to heavy use. The grades are the following:
- AC1: As the least durable, this grade is okay for low-traffic areas like guest rooms.
- AC2: These floors are best for moderate use. Consider dining rooms or home offices.
- AC3: These materials thrive in busy homes with kids and pets. They can work in living rooms or hallways.
- AC4: Light commercial settings will benefit from these materials.
- AC5: Choose this option for your bustling business or very active home.
Vinyl Flooring Grades
When it comes to vinyl flooring, it’s all about the wear layer. It is a clear top layer that keeps the design underneath safe from scratches and scuffs. Here’s how it is evaluated:
- 6-12 mil: Use these floors in guest rooms and areas with minimal foot traffic.
- 12-20 mil: Choose this option if you have an active home. It works well in living rooms and kitchens.
- 20+ mil: Homes with pets, kids and frequent visitors will benefit from this wear layer that’s built for maximum performance.
Understanding PEI Ratings for Strengths
Tiles are guarded a little differently. They use the PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating to determine how well a floor will stand up to wear. Check it out:
- PEI 1: These tiles are used for walls only, not floors.
- PEI 2: This tile can handle light foot traffic (i.e. bathroom floors).
- PEI 3: Use this option in most areas, including kitchens and living rooms.
Find the Quality of Flooring You Need for Your Space!
Flooring grades might seem technical at first glance. However, they’re more straightforward than you think. From polished elegance to Select Grade hardwood to the unmatched durability of 20 mil vinyl, these grades are a stepping stone to a fashionable yet functional space. At Carpet To Go Flooring, we have flooring for everyone. Whether you’re a young family, pet owner or business owner in North Carolina or South Carolina, we can help.
Want to know more about flooring grades and quality? Contact us to book a shop-at-home appointment or visit our:
Mooresville Flooring Warehouse
