How do you select durable flooring options for high-traffic areas?

1 Consider the traffic level

The first thing to consider is how much traffic the area receives. Is it a hallway, a kitchen, a living room, or an office? Different flooring options have different levels of resistance to wear and tear, scratches, stains, and moisture. For example, hardwood floors are beautiful and timeless, but they can be easily damaged by water, spills, and pets. On the other hand, laminate floors are more resistant to scratches and stains, but they can warp or buckle if exposed to excessive moisture. You need to choose a flooring option that can withstand the traffic level and the environmental conditions of the area.

2 Compare the durability ratings

Another way to select durable flooring options for high-traffic areas is to compare the durability ratings of different materials. The most common rating system is the AC rating, which stands for abrasion criteria. It measures the resistance of laminate floors to abrasion, impact, stains, burns, and moisture. The AC rating ranges from 1 to 5, with 5 being the most durable. Generally, you should look for a laminate floor with an AC rating of at least 3 for high-traffic areas. Another rating system is the Janka hardness scale, which measures the resistance of wood floors to denting and wear. The higher the Janka rating, the harder and more durable the wood. For example, oak has a Janka rating of 1290, while hickory has a Janka rating of 1820.

3 Choose the right finish

The finish of your flooring can also affect its durability and appearance. A finish is a protective layer that covers the surface of the flooring and enhances its color and texture. There are different types of finishes for different flooring options, such as wax, oil, varnish, lacquer, and polyurethane. Some finishes are more durable and resistant to scratches and stains than others, but they may also require more maintenance and care. For example, wax and oil finishes give a natural and warm look to wood floors, but they need to be reapplied regularly and are more prone to water damage. On the other hand, polyurethane finishes are more durable and easy to clean, but they may also dull the natural beauty of wood.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?