As you know, laminated flooring is divided into classes. They are determined by a number of operational characteristics. It depends on them how long the laminate is lying, without losing its appearance.
The European classification of a laminate (norm EN 13329) involves 18 different tests, after passing which the material receives a certain marking. All laminated coatings belong to two types: commercial and domestic. But since each manufacturing company itself tests the material, the results for different brands of the same class may vary.
We list the tests that are carried out:
- Abrasion resistance.
- Resistance to loads for a long time.
- Resistance to blows.
- The ability to resist high temperatures - is determined by the absence of decay from the fire of a cigarette, for example.
- Lack of delamination.
- Resistance to light rays.
- The absence of spots when exposed to a laminate household chemicals.
- The ability to resist slipping.
- The ability to absorb water, as well as swell at the same time.
- The amount of formaldehyde emitted.
In addition to these, several other tests are being conducted.
Commercial Laminate Classification
This floor covering can last from 3 to 6 years in public type rooms. Well, in an apartment, such a laminate will lie longer - 2 times, or even 3 times. If the manufacturer is promised that their laminate can withstand a ten-year period, then we can immediately assume that we are talking about the conditions of the apartment, but not about the office .
Class 31 laminate
Class 31 laminate is the most unstable material. It can be operated in an office building for 2 or 3 years, no more. Although at home, its service life is increased to 10 or 12 years. In Russian conditions, this class of laminate is used most often. It is laid on the floor of the reception room or small office. It is also appropriate in a meeting room.
Laminate 32 classes
Class 32 laminate is able to lie in a public building for 3 to 5 years, provided that the load is medium. In the apartment, such a floor will not lose its properties for about 12 years, or even 15. Therefore, it is best to lay such a laminate in the office and at home.
Class 33 laminate
Class 33 laminate - can withstand the highest loads. In the office, it will not be worn for 5 or 6 years, and in the apartment - for 15 or 20 years. By the way, for home conditions, its manufacturers promise even a lifetime warranty. The advantage is that the attractive appearance of this flooring lasts a very long time.
Household laminate - except for an apartment
As a rule, these inexpensive floor coverings can last in an apartment or house for no more than 5 or 6 years. As their base, boards of the type HDF or MDF (thickness from 6 to 7 millimeters) are used. Consider the classification of the laminate according to classes, given that it will be used only at home.
Class 21 laminate
Class 21 laminate can withstand no more than a year or two years. It can only be laid in the pantry or sleeping room. But Russians prefer not to use such material.
Laminate 22 classes
Class 22 laminate can be used from 2 to 4 years. It is also not used in Russia. Abrasion and load resistance is medium. It can be used as the floor of a dressing room, pantry, nursery or bedroom.
Laminate 23 classes
Class 23 laminate can last from 4 to 6 years. It was popular in our country until 2001. He was laid on the floor not only in nurseries, pantries and bedrooms, but also in those rooms where the loads are quite high. For example, in the hallway, kitchen or dining room.
But now all these three types of household laminate in Russia are no longer produced.
Video: Everything you need to know about laminate flooring
