When shopping for flooring, you'll see AC ratings everywhere — but most people don't know what they actually mean. Understanding this rating system can save you from choosing a floor that wears out too fast.
What Are AC Ratings?
AC stands for Abrasion Class — an international standard (EN 13329) that measures how well a floor surface resists wear from foot traffic, furniture, and daily use. The scale runs from AC1 to AC5:
- AC1 — Light residential (bedroom, closet)
- AC2 — General residential (living room, dining room)
- AC3 — Heavy residential / light commercial (busy homes, small offices)
- AC4 — General commercial (retail stores, offices)
- AC5 — Heavy commercial (department stores, public buildings)
Why AC5 Is the Gold Standard
AC5 is the highest possible rating. Flooring rated AC5 is designed to withstand the heaviest commercial foot traffic — thousands of people walking on it daily. In a residential setting, AC5 flooring is essentially overkill (in the best way possible).
What AC5 means in your home:
- Pet claws won't scratch the surface
- High heels won't leave marks
- Furniture legs won't dent or scuff the finish
- Kids' toys won't damage the wear layer
- Decades of use without visible wear patterns
SuperOak: AC5 Standard Across All Collections
Every SuperOak plank — Lite, Select, and Plus — carries an AC5 rating. Combined with our non-PVC waterproof core and 3D printed surfaces, you get a floor built to last a lifetime. Explore our AC5-rated collections.