31 32 33 than these. What does laminate class mean? Which class is better? A few words about additional criteria

When choosing a laminate flooring, special attention should be paid to the wear resistance class of the laminate, which determines the reliability of the floor and its durability. On the modern market you can find laminate flooring 31-34 classes of wear resistance. It is quite difficult to say that a certain class of laminate is better or worse than the others, because each model has its own operational and technical characteristics, and is also designed for use in certain conditions.

The wear resistances are commercial, i.e. designed for use in rooms with medium to high floor load. That is why the laying of such coatings is carried out in a wide range of premises: service enterprises, trade pavilions, small shops and offices, country houses, cottages, play and children's areas.

At the same time, models of this type have become widespread in the household sphere, because at a democratic price they have quite suitable properties for use in residential premises, and for a fairly long period. Depending on the manufacturer, in the domestic sphere, such a laminate can be used for about 10-20 years.

Laying of laminate of this class can be carried out in any living space, including in the kitchen, in the corridor, in the hallway. Also, the advantages of this class include a huge selection of decors on the market with a variety of designs.

Advantages of class 33 laminate

Laminate floors of 33 class of wear resistance are the most popular among commercial and business structures. Such coatings are intended for use in many public, administrative, social premises: medical institutions, shopping centers, boutiques, schools, kindergartens, etc. The average service life of such models under intensive and constant load is from 7 to 15 years (also depends on the manufacturer).

These models are more reliable, resistant to various negative influences, durable when compared with lower class decors. At the same time, such products will cost significantly more (even with one manufacturer, the difference in prices for laminate of different classes can reach 50-150%).

Laminate floors, which have such a high class of exploitation, of course, can be installed in residential premises, but often experts do not recommend doing this, because simpler and more affordable models can cope with the same tasks.

What conclusion can be drawn?

Laminate coverings of 31 and 32 service classes are better suited for residential premises: they have quite acceptable working properties, long service life, attractive prices (in most cases). In addition, the installation of such decors can also be carried out in the commercial sector if the room is not crowded and there is a low traffic.

For laminates of 33 and 34 classes of wear resistance, optimal operating conditions are rooms with a high level of floor load and high traffic. At the same time, no one prohibits the purchase of such models for use in the household sphere, however, as a rule, this does not make any sense, because hardly anyone wants to use the same floor covering for 25-40 years.

In the modern world, there are many options: someone prefers tiles, someone parquet, but one of the most popular solutions - laying the laminate. This stylish and durable material quickly won the hearts of home and apartment owners. Him a lot of advantagesand also almost no flaws. You just need to choose the right class and type of laminate in order to create the perfect interior that will not only look good, but also retain its beautiful appearance for many years.

And at this point, many people who have started repairs have serious problems. How do you determine the class you want? And what are the features of each?

Laminate class 31 and 32: differences

Originally for household use produced laminate from class 21 to 23. But now finding it in hardware stores is almost impossible. The thing is that the technology for making a more durable and wear-resistant material has become more accessible. Thus, the classes originally created for commercial use, have become a suitable option for decorating the most ordinary apartments and houses. The differences between models of different classes may seem insignificant, but in reality the situation is completely different. Grade 31 has low lamella thickness... This characteristic is both a disadvantage and an advantage. Seven millimeters - not enough for good sound insulation, however, the small thickness allows you to organize excellent warm floors.

Moreover, serious the problem of this class — low moisture resistance... It is better not to wash such floors, but to vacuum. Accidentally spilled water can cause serious damage to the flooring. Therefore, class 31 laminate is categorically it is forbidden to lay in rooms with high humiditybecause it will soon swell and deform.

Otherwise, the quality of this material is slightly lower than that of the closest analogue in its class. He is inferior to class 32 for all characteristics. Pleases only price of this type of laminate - it is available even for those who have a small budget and want to make economy class renovation.

Laminate class 32 and 33: the difference

Finding the differences between these models will also be quite difficult. Of course, class 33 laminate is much superior to its "little brother" in such characteristics as wear resistance, damage resistance, service life.

So, for example, a 32 class laminate in domestic use can retain its properties and appearance for more than fifteen years... And the model of the 33rd class - more than twenty. Both options are different excellent sound insulation and a special reusable locking system. Durability and reliability such a flooring is not in doubt. But there is still a difference between the classes. Despite all special coatings and multi-layer material class 32 laminate is afraid of water... He is moisture resistantrather than water resistant. This means that the surface can be wiped with a damp cloth, but contact with water will lead to "swelling" of the joints. If moisture gets into the joints, the flooring will be damaged. Additional means can be used to prevent this outcome.

Another significant difference - price... Of course, class 33 laminate is much more expensive than its counterparts. But this cost is understandable. This flooring has practically no disadvantages. Laminate resistant to mechanical damage (its surface will not scratch furniture legs and claws of a pet), it is not affected by sudden changes in temperature. Plus it's a floor covering can be cleaned with various productsThis means that even the most unpleasant stains can be easily removed from the floor.

Modern laminate flooring is classified for durability and moisture resistance. Today, you can choose a different laminate for finishing an apartment or office. In most cases, grade 32 is recommended,

Quantity calculator

However, the 33 differs slightly in price. Consider the difference to make the best choice.

Classification

Not so long ago, many types of laminate were produced by the industry. The following encoding principle was adopted:

• The first number represents the recommended application. 2 - for household needs, 3 - commercial real estate.
• The second part of the encoding ranges from 1 to 4 and is responsible for strength and moisture resistance.

Previously, quite a few types were produced. For domestic needs, classes 21-23 were intended, for commercial premises - 31-34. To date, production technologies have gone so far that the cost of the board differs slightly.

Today only laminate with the classification code 31-34 remains on the market, since the class 2 board definitely loses any comparison. The most purchased segment is class 32. It has the best ratio of price, quality, user characteristics.

Another characteristic of the laminate is the coating class. It is indicated on the packaging under the AC code, it can vary in the range from 1 to 6. For a 32 class laminate, this value is usually in the range of 2-4, for 33 - 3-5, a 34 class laminate has higher AC in 5 or 6. Most manufacturers "with a name" tacitly follow such combinations of board quality and coating wear resistance indicators.

However, modern factories do not always follow such a clear gradation. Among the products of China and Taiwan, it is easy to find a 32 class laminate with a coating, in which the AC is 5. You can also find a 33 laminate with a poor-quality coating with an indicator of 2 or without marking, which can be conventionally taken as the lowest wear resistance. Therefore, when choosing this or that material, you need to look not only at the board code, but also take into account the difference in the strength of the coating.

Narrow segments

Class 31 laminate is very rarely used. It can be chosen by people with low incomes, however, this is not justified. The service life of such products is only 6 years, the coating is recommended to be used under very low loads. Class 34 laminate is designed for extreme conditions. For example, they get off dance floors, gyms, building corridors leading to elevators or escalators. Such material perfectly resists abrasion, constant mechanical stress, frequent wet cleaning with the use of a large amount of water and chemicals.

Customer reviews about him are positive. Manufacturers guarantee a service life of up to 15 years in household use. The board can withstand wet cleaning, medium loads, and is designed for moisture drops that are usually present in living quarters. The AC class of the coating provides for average daily loads, as well as the use of shoes without sharp metal elements of the sole.

More expensive, in comparison with the material of the 32 class, it can withstand serious loads. They can be used to line restaurant halls, office premises; the coating is designed for long-term use and load during the day. The service life is up to 10 years. Depending on the wear resistance class of the top layer, the price of a 33 class laminate can be 2 times higher than the cost of a 32 coating.

What are the differences?

First, let's list how the materials are similar. The list of traits is quite extensive:

• the available colors are practically the same;
• surface design techniques (textured, matte) are the same;
• the range of available thicknesses is the same;
• styling methods are similar;
• the same board sizes, stacking formats, connection types are used.

As you can see, 32 and 33 grade laminates are very similar. However, there is a difference that can affect the choice of flooring:

• Class 33 laminate has a slightly poorer range of colors and shades. If you need some sophisticated color or surface design, the likelihood of finding the right one in class 32 materials is higher.
• With the same level of wear resistance, class 32 laminate is slightly cheaper.
• There are some types of surface finishes (for example, under oak parquet, as in the photo), which exist in only 33 classes.

The list is incomplete, however, as it can be seen from it, the question "which is better" may simply disappear as there is no alternative. Only 32 or 33 grade laminate will be selected.

Which is better to choose if the comparison gives almost the same results

Consider the case where the 32 and 33 grade laminates are almost the same, even the price does not differ significantly. In this case, the choice must be made based on the scope of the coating:

• Laminate of 32 class with a high indicator of durability of the AC will be preferable where most often go: hallway, corridor, hall, nursery.

• Class 33 laminate will show itself better in the dining room, kitchen, bathroom. This is evidenced by both the classification and user reviews. He tolerates surges of humidity during cleaning more easily, and is also indifferent to sudden changes in temperature, for example, from hot coffee spilled on him.
• Balcony floor finishing. Here the choice depends on the operating conditions. Grade 33 will show itself well in the absence of good floor insulation, when laying on a screed, for example. 32, however, will save money if there is a raised floor on the logs on which the covering is mounted.

Today on the market you can find a 32 class laminate with a very high level of wear resistance of the coating and the 33 laminate of the same price, but with a lower AC indicator. When answering the question which is better, you should evaluate, first of all, the board. A coating of a higher class may allow you to enter the same financial budget, but it will definitely behave better with frequent wet cleaning, as well as temperature fluctuations and loads.

The modern offer of laminate floors pleases with its variety. Therefore, the process of choosing a laminate sometimes turns into a very difficult task. This is where modern classification comes in. Different classes of laminated floors determine the period during which their safety and excellent appearance are guaranteed, as well as the loads that they can withstand during operation. Let us dwell in more detail on the 33 class laminate, the technical characteristics of this material in comparison with similar products of other types.

Classic and moisture resistant laminate of 33 class, features of beveled laminate

Currently, in the process of repair, they use from 31 to 34 class laminate. This classification was specially used by manufacturers to make the choice when buying as easy as possible. All technical characteristics, stability, as well as the service life of the coating and the permissible loads increase in direct proportion to the class value.

The most popular for repairs is class 33 waterproof laminate. According to the classification, it is intended for commercial premises with heavy traffic. However, it is increasingly used for home use due to its excellent performance characteristics, as well as its long service life, which averages about 20 years.

The main advantages of the laminate are associated with the special strength of the upper protective layer, as well as the reinforced slab at its base. In addition, it is often supplied with additional elements such as a bevel, which makes the panels look more like natural wood.

There are models with anti-static and anti-slip coating. And you don't even have to think about the exterior design, since there are a great many design options, among which the 33 class "oak" laminate is especially popular.

The main manufacturers of 33 class laminate flooring: Germany, Russia, Norway, Belgium. Of the most popular brands that have proven themselves well in the markets of Russia and neighboring countries, laminate flooring from Tarkett, Classen, Kronotex, Egger, Kronospan, Pergo is distinguished.

Class 33 laminate for tiles, technical characteristics

This coating is simply irreplaceable in places of permanent residence, such as corridors, hallways, kitchens, dining rooms, where a coating of a lower rank can simply not withstand intense loads. Moreover, the price for it is slightly higher than the German class 32 laminate, and the service life is almost 2 times longer.

With all the variety of modern designs, laminate flooring is gaining popularity. In terms of external design, it is as close as possible to natural materials, but unlike them, it has a quick installation and a much lower cost. In addition, resistance to physical influences and its moisture resistance are sometimes simply amazing.

The only disadvantage of this coating is the high price. The cost ranges from $ 15 to $ 25. However, the price in this case is not a limiting factor, since the quality of the product corresponds to its cost by 100%, especially in comparison with the 32 class laminate, which has a lot of reviews.

Separately, I would like to touch upon the very popular laminate produced under the Quick Step brand. Belgian floors are considered to be premium flooring. A wide range of exterior designs, combined with impeccable quality, have ensured the flooring has more than 20 years of market leadership. And thanks to the use of all the latest developments in this area in the production of Quick Step 33 class laminate, the quality of products only gets better over time.

Read more about UV-resistant laminate

What are the qualities of class 32 laminate?

Here are the main technical characteristics of grade 32 laminate:

• Resistance to mechanical and temperature influences.
• Lack of sensitivity to ultraviolet light.
• High performance in sound insulation.
• Moisture resistance.
• Long service life - more than 15 years in domestic use.
• Reusable locking system.
• Antistatic properties of the finishing layer - dust does not linger on the surface, and the quality of cleaning increases.
• Durability of the coating - no dents from the legs of heavy furniture will remain on the surface.
• Safety and environmental friendliness - the floor covering can be used even in children's rooms.

There is one drawback of class 32 laminate - low water resistance.

What class of laminate, other than 32 and 33, can be used?

For laying in residential premises, coatings with marking 21, 22 and 23 are used. Moreover, in comparison with them, laminate of 32 and 33 classes has significant differences. Here are the main characteristics of the coatings:

• 21st - the cheapest and "weakest" laminate. It has rather low resistance to mechanical stress and moisture. Therefore, the coating is suitable for installation in rooms with low traffic and stable dry microclimate.
• 22nd - slightly stronger than 21st. It can be used in rooms with an average floor load - in children's and living rooms. Service life 3 - 4 years.
• 23rd - here the quality of the lamellas allows them to be laid in places with high traffic - in corridors, kitchens, etc. The moisture resistance is higher here than in the 22nd and 21st class of laminate. However, there are no differences in cleaning and care, and all the usual precautions must be observed

How critical are the differences between the 31st laminate and the 32nd and 33rd?

Grade 31 laminate can be a good "compromise" option if grades 32 and 33 are causing too much damage to the wallet. This floor covering, of course, has more modest performance in terms of wear resistance, sound insulation and moisture resistance. There is no need to talk about water resistance at all. However, this material also has its advantages.

First, the price. Laminate 31 and 32 class functional differences are not too large, but the difference in cost can turn out to be decent. Secondly - the small thickness of the lamellas (6 - 7 mm). On the one hand, this is the reason for low sound insulation, and on the other hand, it is an advantage when organizing a warm floor. This finishing material has sufficient thermal conductivity for the heating system to work efficiently. In addition, the laminate flooring 31 class reviews are mostly positive.

They say class 32 laminate is afraid of water. How serious is it?

According to the specifications, class 32 laminate is moisture resistant, but not water resistant. That is, cleaning is possible only with a well-wrung out damp cloth - this is evidenced by the mention in the moisture resistance characteristics. And a flood of water not liquidated in time can cause serious damage to this floor covering.

The problem can be partially compensated by applying special waxes to the laminate. The composition, getting into the joints between the finishing elements, makes these places airtight. During use, the wax is gradually erased, so the treatment of the floor covering should be repeated every few months.

What is good about class 34 laminate and what are its differences with 33?

What is the difference between class 33 and class 34? Basically for the intended purpose: the 33rd laminate is suitable only for domestic use, and the 34th - for installation in public spaces. That is, the 34th class implies a very high resistance to various kinds of influences:

• Mechanical - the floor covering is able to withstand heavy walking traffic, moving and installing heavy furniture, accidental impacts. In addition, it is good to lay such a floor if there is a large dog in the house - the claws will not harm him in any way.
• Thermal - the laminate is not afraid of temperature changes.
• Chemical - the coating can be cleaned with a wide range of products, and it can even withstand the effects of aggressive chemicals. True, not long in time.
• High humidity - class 34 laminate is not afraid of spilled water.

It is also worth noting the long service life of the coating of this classification: in public premises about 15 years, in residential premises it is twice as long.

How moisture resistant is a Class 33 waterproof laminate flooring?

The moisture resistance of the 33rd laminate is very high. And so that this statement is not unfounded, let's consider this issue in more detail. The degree of resistance of the floor covering to moisture directly depends on the degree of impregnation of the lamellas with melamine resins. And we are talking about both the base board and the top decorative layer.

So the moisture resistant laminate of the 33rd class is impregnated with melamine throughout its entire thickness. Whereas floor coverings marked with lower numbers can only be impregnated with the top layer. In addition, the locks of the 33rd laminate have a device and impregnation, which form an additional obstacle to the ingress of water between the lamellas.

I am doing renovations in the apartment, and now I have reached the floors. In almost the entire apartment, I decided to put laminate on the floors, except for the kitchen and bathrooms, where I will have tiles with a heated floor system. But when I came to the choice of laminate, another problem fell on me. There are several types of laminate, differing in wear resistance. Now the most demanded classes of laminate are 32 and 33 class. Moreover, the 33rd class of laminate is decently more expensive. So which laminate to choose. Read on ...

First, let's define what a laminate class is?

Laminate class – an indicator that characterizes how long the laminate will retain its previous appearance under various loads on it. It should be noted that such tests are carried out by the European Association for Standards (EN 13329), the laminate is tested for 18 - 20 different loads. After that, a conclusion is made about the strength of the laminate and one or another class is assigned to it..

It should be noted that laminate flooring for personal use, in apartments or houses where there is not a very large load, is recommended for classes 21 - 23. It is both cheap at the price and at the level of performance.

However, the 21st, 22nd and 23rd class of laminate have been discontinued. Why? Yes, because class 31 is not much more expensive, and its wear resistance is several times higher. Therefore, they began to buy 31 and higher classes, and lower classes were left without consumer demand.

If you use the 21, 22 and 23 class at home, then its service life at low loads, up to 10 people per day will be.

Grade 21 - 2 years

Grade 22 - 4 years

23rd grade - 6 years old.

Moreover, it is better to lay it where there is no heavy load on the floor, for example, bedrooms, closets, nurseries, dressing rooms. It is hardly suitable for the main hall, hallway and kitchen.

Now the main demand is for grades 32 and 33. Even the 31st class is leaving. For personal use, 32 and even more so 33 classes of laminate will be very much even enough. As the manufacturers assure the 32nd class of laminate, it can spread both in rooms with low traffic, and in rooms and hallways with high traffic. It can withstand up to 200 - 300 people per day, for 10 years. If you lay such a laminate at home, then it will get bored faster than worn out.

Laminate of 33 class, this is a more advanced model, the load with which he can handle 500 people per day, for 15 years. At home, such a laminate can lie for a very, very long time.

32 and 33 class laminate - differ in one top layer, which is additionally present in class 33.

If we take the design, then both 32 and 33 class, can have an equally complex design, sometimes very similar to the texture of a tree or cut log, 21 -23 class could not have such a texture, so it was limited in design.

The thickness of the "board" for class 32 and 33 of laminate can be from 7 to 11 mm.

It is clear that the 33rd class is slightly superior to the 32nd class, however, it is much more expensive in price. If "32" - can be bought for 200 - 400 rubles per square meter, then "33" - will cost 400 - 800 rubles.

But there is not much point in taking the 33rd grade of laminate for the house (although if you really want to, you can). For the home, they will serve almost the same way, it makes all the difference for office space.

To summarize

Class 32 laminate flooring should be used for commercial spaces with low or medium traffic.

Class 33 laminate flooring should be used in commercial premises with high traffic.

Take 32 laminate for the house, it is much cheaper (almost twice), and it will serve almost the same as the 33rd class. Of course, if you are not limited in money, then take the 33rd class, but there will be no special sense for the apartment. In terms of design complexity, they are the same, and therefore class 32 and 33 can be selected for any interior.

I hope my article helped you, especially for those who hesitate with a choice.