We talk about the classification of laminate boards, and consider the advantages and disadvantages of each class. We compare them with each other and give recommendations on choosing the right finish for different rooms.
Laminate flooring is in high demand among those who are carrying out or planning home renovations. And this is easy to explain: it is practical, durable, easy to maintain, and at the same time beautiful. Manufacturers offer such a wide selection of different models that choosing the right option can be difficult. To make the task easier, let’s look into the finishing features and find out which class of laminate is best to buy for an apartment.
Features of the material
The laminated board is a multi-layer floor covering. It is made by pressing. Most models have four layers.
1st layer: base, also stabilizing
The bottom layer is formed from paper or kraft cardboard, which is impregnated with synthetic resins. Its main task is to protect the base from moisture, which can lead to the deformation of the lamellas. Basic information is usually indicated here: batch number, release date, trademark, etc.
2nd layer: load-bearing board or base
This is usually fibreboard of varying densities and thicknesses. There are two types of such boards.
- HDF (HDF). The plate has a high density and is distinguished by its significant mass and high strength. Such a base “works” well in difficult operating conditions, as well as where many people pass by every day.
- MDF (MDF). Medium density board. A lightweight version with low strength. This is considered quite sufficient for using the coating at home. To compensate for strength, the manufacturer can produce panels of greater thickness.
For waterproof varieties, a different base is used. It is a super-hard plastic composite. This carrier board is completely insensitive to moisture. True, its price is significantly higher than that of fiberboards.
3rd layer: decorative
A special type of paper onto which a design is applied using high-precision printing. It can be different. Usually, this is an imitation of wood, but it can also be the texture of stone, etc. When CPL technology is used in production, kraft paper is also added to the decorative layer, which significantly increases the durability of the finished lamellas.
4th layer: overlay
A protective layer of high-strength acrylic, melamine, and other polymer resins. This is a completely transparent film, the properties of which determine the characteristics of the cladding and its service life. There are two types of overlay.
- Structural. The surface is embossed to imitate the texture of natural materials.
- Smooth. The canvas is completely smooth with varying degrees of gloss: glossy mirror, semi-gloss, satin matte.
To increase the strength of the overlay, titanium dioxide or corundum particles can be added to its composition.
Laminate manufacturing technologies
The quality of a floor covering depends not only on the properties of its constituent layers but also on the production technology used. There are four types of such technologies.
- Direct pressing. Marking on the packaging – DPL. All layers are laid in a certain order and pressed under high temperatures. After cooling, the canvas is cut into panels. The service life of such a product is shorter since after some time the overlay begins to chip off. The higher the intensity of use, the sooner chips will appear.
- High pressure. Marked as HPL. The manufacturing process is divided into two stages. During the first, paper with decorative printing and an overlay are pressed, then the blank is applied to the two remaining layers, and repeated pressing occurs. This technology significantly increases the abrasion resistance of the finish, which ultimately extends its service life.
- Continuous pressure. On the packaging it is indicated by the letters CPL. As in the previous version, first the overlay is pressed in together with the decorative layer. But before that, an additional kraft paper backing is placed under the paper. This significantly increases the resistance of the coating to mechanical stress, even quite strong ones.
- Direct printing. Marked as DPR. A relatively new technology, it involves applying a design directly to the base. Thanks to this, it was possible to significantly increase the number of coating design options. It is even possible to produce designs based on the customer’s sketches or photographs.
What is a laminate class and what are they?
When choosing a floor covering, you need to take into account its manufacturing technology and wear resistance rating. It determines the possibility of using the coating in different conditions. Before assigning any class to the cladding, the sample is tested. The standards regulating this process in Russia and Europe are approximately the same. In both cases, the sample is checked according to the following parameters.
- Testing the strength of the overlay and its resistance to abrasion. A Taber test is performed.
- For resistance to indentation. The study is carried out using a metal ball, which is pressed with a press.
- The resistance of the overlay to the influence of rollers and legs of furniture moving on it.
- On the impact resistance of the protective layer.
- For resistance to various types of pollution, including aggressive chemicals.
- For fire resistance.
- For moisture resistance. The test sample is placed in water for a day, then the percentage of its water absorption is determined. For high-quality finishing it cannot be more than 18%.
After all tests are carried out, the results are analyzed and each sample is assigned a class. In this case, the rule of least result applies. This means that if a sample receives different ratings in different tests, it will be assigned the lowest possible rating.
During the tests, one of the abrasion classes is assigned, which determines the area of application of the product. The basis for this is the Taber test. It shows the number of revolutions of the sanding disc after which the overlay loses its properties. Classification by abrasion is presented in the table.
| Category | AS-1 | AS-2 | AS-3 | AS-4 | AS-5 | AS-6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abrasive disc speed | from 900 to 1500 | from 1500 to 2000 | from 2000 to 4000 | from 4000 to 6000 | from 6000 to 8500 | from 8500 |
Initially, laminate flooring was divided into household and commercial. The marking of the first began with a two, the second with a three. The first group turned out to be very short-lived, so it gradually disappeared from store shelves. Let’s take a closer look at the commercial varieties.
Laminate class 31
Will not withstand prolonged intense loads. Designed for rooms where there is little traffic. These are bedrooms, lounges, offices, etc. AC-3 has abrasion, low impact resistance, and water absorption below 18%. The thickness of the overlay does not exceed 0.2 mm, the thickness of the base is from 6 to 8 mm. The cladding can last about 10 years, provided that the operating rules are followed.
Advantages
- Resistance to pollution, including quite aggressive substances.
- Low cost.
- Easy to install and can be dismantled.
- Variety of design options.
Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting low moisture resistance. The most vulnerable areas to water are the joints and ends. They are not protected against moisture, so if water gets on the floor, it should be removed immediately. Otherwise, the lamellas may swell. The disadvantages include the characteristic loud sound, which is audible when walking on the surface in hard shoes and heels.
Laminate 32 classes
Placed in rooms where traffic is considered average. These are children’s rooms, living rooms, halls, etc. The material belongs to AC-4 abrasion, so it can withstand quite intensive use. The thickness of the base is from 7 to 12 mm, and the height of the overlay is up to 0.4 mm. Has good impact resistance and water absorption of 18%.Subject to compliance with operating rules, it will last about 15 years..
Pros
- Good sound insulation and increased strength.
- Optimal ratio of cost and quality.
- Increased wear resistance and durability.
- Variety of textures and designs.
The disadvantage of the coating is sensitivity to humidity. As with products of a lower class, the most vulnerable areas are the locks and ends. But for this variety, a base that is more dense and therefore less sensitive to moisture is used. However, water getting into the joints is undesirable.
Laminate 33 class
Available for installation in rooms with heavy traffic: hallways, corridors, kitchens, etc. The material has the appropriate characteristics. The thickness of the base is from 8 to 12 mm, the overlay cannot be thinner than 0.4 mm. Abrasion resistance is AC-5, so neither furniture legs nor sharp heels leave marks on it. The characteristics of class 33 laminate guarantee service life under conditions of intense loads is 20 years, under light loads – about 30.
Pros
- Increased abrasion resistance.
- Most models have a structural top layer, which allows you to very accurately imitate the texture of wood.
- Long service life.
Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting some sensitivity to humidity. Like an analog with a lower class, the water absorption coefficient is 18%. But despite this, there is a difference between class 32 and class 33 laminate. The latter is produced on a denser and thicker base. Due to this, it absorbs less moisture, therefore, it is better protected. However, if a large amount of water accidentally gets into the joint area, the base may warp. Therefore, if the material is planned to be laid in rooms with high humidity, it is necessary to use special protection.
Laminate 34 classes
Most laminated boards in this class are made by high-pressure pressing (HPL). Thanks to this, the material has an increased density. The thickness of the base is 10-12 mm, the minimum height of the overlay is 0.6 mm. Wear resistance is rated as AC-6, which allows it to be used where people constantly walk: at airports, shopping malls, and train stations. If cladding is chosen for a house,its service life is not limited. Almost all 34-class models are impregnated with water-repellent compounds during the manufacturing process, so their maximum water absorption is only 8%.
Pros
- Possibility of installation as a finishing coating on various underfloor heating systems .
- Maximum resistance to possible damage and wear.
- Possibility of use in wet areas, including baths, swimming pools, bathrooms.
The main disadvantage is the high cost of the material. However, by spending a significant amount on tiling from a well-known brand, you can forget about the need to repair the floor.
Which class of laminate is best for different rooms: comparison
You should choose a laminated coating for your home based on the conditions in which it will be used. Let’s compare materials of different grades.
Moisture resistance
It is believed that any laminated board is sensitive to moisture. This is true, but there are nuances depending on the class. The most hygroscopic is 31 facings. It is made on a loose base that easily absorbs water. Most often, joints swell and locks deteriorate. 32 and 33 boards are more resistant to moisture, 34 is already moisture resistant. During its production, special processing is used, which reduces the moisture absorption coefficient from 18% to 8%. Therefore, the cladding is 31 cl. It is advisable to only vacuum, 32 wipes with a damp cloth, 33 cl. wash carefully, and 34 can be washed in any way, including a washing vacuum cleaner.
Wear resistance
The most vulnerable to abrasion and other damage are 31 class products. Their overlay layer is the thinnest, it quickly wears out and chips. Therefore, such a coating lasts on average 5-6 years, although with good care it can last 10 years. Maximum wear resistance for 34 boards, AC-6. Overlay – 0.6 mm thick, most often structured and with reinforcing additives. This gives a very good result: in public places such cladding lasts 25-30 years, but at home, it can last as long as desired. But provided that it is properly looked after. Products 32 cl. will last on average 15 years. Material 33 cl. more wear-resistant, it is used for 20-25 years.
Strength
The most durable boards are thicker. These are lamellas of 34 and 33 cl. Their thickness is 8-12 mm. The density of the base, especially the first ones, is also high. They also have the highest levels of impact resistance: IC-4 for 34 lamellas and IC-3 for 33. 32 panels are close to them in thickness: from 7 to 12 mm. But their strength is lower.
The main difference between class 32 and class 33 laminates is the density of the base. In the first case, it is less dense, without the use of special strengthening additives. Therefore, with the same thickness, the lamellas are less durable. 31 panels are even thinner and less durable. They have poor shock resistance and break under relatively small loads.
To present comparative information, we have prepared a table with the characteristics of the cladding. When choosing the best laminate for your apartment, you need to take these parameters into account. All types of laminated boards are designed for interior flooring and there are recommendations for each room.
| Class | Base thickness, mm | Strength | Abrasion | Wear resistance | Service life, years | Moisture resistance | Scope of application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 | 6-8 | Low | AS-3 | Low | 5-10 | Low | Bedroom, office, rest room |
| 32 | 7-12 | Average | AS-4 | Average | 10-15 | Low | Living room, children’s room |
| 33 | 8-12 | High | AS-5 | High | 20-25 | Average | Corridor, hallway, kitchen |
| 34 | 8-12 | High | AS-6 | High | 30 and more | High | Any room, including a bathroom or toilet |
Some users purchase material with a “margin” of wear resistance and strength. This is hardly justified, since changes in humidity in the living room, for example, will not occur during the entire service life of the material, as well as intensive walking on the floor in the bedroom, etc. Purchasing high-end material in this case can be regarded as overpaying for options that will never be useful.
The most important thing about our X that it is for
those who are in a hurry
