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When choosing flooring, abrasion resistance is one of the most important considerations, as it determines the flooring's ability to maintain its appearance and performance under frequent use, friction, and daily wear and tear.
Abrasion resistance refers to a floor's ability to resist scratches, abrasion, and stains. While these properties are often mentioned
together, they are actually different:
Scratch Resistance: The ability of a surface to prevent visible marks from sharp or hard objects.
Abrasion Resistance: The ability of a surface to resist prolonged friction and foot traffic.
Stain Resistance: The ability to resist or recover from liquid and chemical contamination.
Thickness does not equal durability: A thicker surface layer is not necessarily stronger.
Material does not equal durability: True durability usually depends on the coating system and surface texture; some coatings can
make flexible vinyl flooring more durable than thicker wood flooring.
Residential Spaces (e.g., living rooms, hallways, pet housing): Needs to withstand frequent foot traffic, pet scratches, and wear and tear
from furniture movement.
Commercial Environments (e.g., retail, offices, education, healthcare): Requires higher abrasion resistance to cope with frequent cleaning,
wheeled chairs, and external sand.
Light Industrial Areas: Requires a more robust surface coating and dense core material to withstand impacts and equipment movement.
Surface and Coating Systems: New technologies such as PU/UV coatings and ceramic particles enhance durability; self-healing polyurethane
reduces visible scratches.
Abrasion Layer Thickness:
0.3 mm (12 mils): Suitable for basic residential use.
0.5 mm (20 mils): Suitable for heavy-duty residential or light commercial use.
0.7 mm (30 mils): Suitable for public spaces or schools.
Texture and Embossing: EIR (Embossing with Recognition) textures enhance realism and visually conceal minor wear.
Core Density and Structural Design: High-density core materials (such as SPC) resist indentation and provide a tight seal to reduce moisture
penetration.
Installation and Fittings: A smooth underlayer and high-quality padding prevent localized stress and reduce wear.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Appropriate cleaners and cushions can slow down wear and maintain shine.
Abrasion resistance is a crucial factor when choosing flooring, directly affecting its lifespan, appearance, and maintenance costs. Therefore, a comprehensive consideration of materials, coatings, and installation methods is essential to ensure it meets your specific needs.
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