The 4 Golden Standards in Laminate Flooring

| 4 Minute Read |

Laminate Flooring has come a long way since it was invented in 1977. Over the decades, the industry has matured, technology has improved, and clear standards set, most notably the European standard EN 13329.

Despite many Malaysian house owners being overwhelmed with a variety of flooring choices, laminated flooring remains as one of the top choices today due to its unique balance of aesthetics, comfort, and easy maintenance.

If you are on the quest for the perfect floor, keep on reading on the 4 golden standards in laminate flooring.

The Standard

In every industry, quality begins with rigorous testing and certification. In the flooring world, the industries adhere to a highly respected benchmark set by the European standard, EN 13329.

When a product complies with EN 13329, it means that it has reached the gold standard, certification of this standard guarantees safety, stability, and durability for consumers.

Figure 1: Cover Page of DIN EN 13329. (Page 1, [2])

While EN 13329 serves as an excellent benchmark, Malaysian conditions demands more adaptation, especially when it comes to moisture and heat.
EraFlor respects the EN 13329, but it also sees the problems Malaysians face. Through countless research and testing, here are some modified specifications that is important to us:

  1. Core density
  2. Swelling Rate
  3. Understanding AC Ratings
  4. Go Green — For a Better Future


1. Core Density

The very core of a laminate flooring is made from HDF (High Density Fiberboard) with a density of ≥ 800 kg/m³ (Client Challenge, n.d.), whereas EraFlor takes this further, offering a core density of ≥ 880kg/m³ that creates a stronger foundation.

Figure 2: Terms and Definitions — Substrate (Page 6, [1])

The impacts of our high density core builds a solid and stable foundation that withstand sagging and floor deformation. The advantages of EraFlor’s higher core density includes:

  • Stronger Click.
  • Suitable for Malaysian construction raw finish – uneven subfloor.
  • Better dimensional stability.
  • Reduces the probability of dents and compressions.
  • Increases overall strength and flatness.

2. Swelling Rate

Moisture and liquids are the primary threat to laminate flooring. In Malaysia’s warm, humid climate, a swelling rate of 18% is insufficient, as heat and frequent rainfall accelerate moisture absorption and trap moisture in the panels.

Once laminate is compromised by the moisture, it could potentially result in:

  • Warping and Buckling.
  • Swelling.
  • Reduced lifespan.
Figure 3: Table 2 — Classification requirements and levels of use (Page 9, [1])

Well, why don’t implement a 5% swelling rate then? That’s because it may look good on theory, but economically and practically, it is impractical and costly, which overrides the cost of the laminate more than its perceived value.

At EraFlor, we strive for a balance, at 10%, where cost is reasonable, yet quality is exceptional. We go above and beyond, ensuring the best take-away value for our supporting clients, as well as catering to the humidity of the Malaysian hemisphere.

Figure 4: A man is installing Laminate Flooring.

3. Understanding AC Ratings

Yet another important classification in the manufacturing and flooring world is the Abrasion Class (AC) ratings. It is a measure used to determine how well a surface can resist wear and tear against different environmental factors.

Figure 5: Abrasion Class Rating, based on EN 13329 Certification [1]

The Abrasion Class is categorized depending on the amount of Aluminum Oxide in the overlay, measuring how hard a surface that withstand scratching and abrasions, while protecting the decorative layer underneath. In general, Aluminum Oxide provides superior scratch and wear resistance when compared to standard PVC / PU wear layers.

Figure 6: Apparatus of Abrasive Paper Strips [2]

EraFlor features laminate flooring with AC4 rating because it offers excellent balance between durability and economic features. AC4’s standards  relates tightly to our daily activities, such as dropping household objects from table height, moving furniture around, and rolling chairs to talk to your colleagues. IC2 Impact Class, one of the test for rating laminate flooring as AC4, ensures that the surface of EraFlor Laminate Flooring can withstand household objects dropping from typical height, such as tables (≥ 750mm) and islands (≥ 1,000mm). EraFlor Laminate Flooring AC4 products therefore also provides ideal wear resistance warranty for heavy residential up to 20 years and for moderate commercial use up to 15 years.

4. Go Green — For a Better Future

Sustainability is more than a responsibility for today, but a commitment for a better tomorrow. The growing concerns about environmental degradation weighs heavily on our minds. That’s why our partners manufacture in a closed-loop process that honors our planet. We harvest responsibly, ensure the enforcement of rigorous replantation schedules to maintain net zero-deforestation footprint for generations to come.

Conclusion

A beautiful floor is more than a design choice, as a responsible flooring partner, it is our privilege to guide you on the international standards, classifications, and the improvements made in core density and moisture resistance to adapt to Malaysian weather and site conditions, as well as buying a product with a peace of mind that the environment is being taken care of.

Trust us in shaping up your smart life.

References:

[1] European, American and International Standards online – iTeh Standards. (n.d.-c). iTeh Standards. https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/cen/9ae4227b-7e75-4891-bea8-29bc14cff833/en-13329-2000?srsltid=AfmBOoqOaJMs4QDmttJsP5H_yGUT7lP2NULvAkx-zdJj0ysXTw4iULVW