What are AC ratings?

I see flooring products sold with ratings like AC3, AC4, etc. Do these really make a difference to a DIY person like me, and, if so, do they affect which cutter I should buy?

On second thought I looked it up. And from what I've read in my shear instruction manual you're not supposed to cut "High Pressure" laminate. It doesn't refer to the AC ratings at all. You're probably safe to just stay away from anything thats a 5 and watch anything that's a 4 to make sure it's not a "high pressure".



The Ratings

All reputable manufacturers of laminate flooring follow the guidelines set forth by the AC standards. Most manufacturers develop products in multiple strength categories, and the breakdown of the ratings is as follows:

Unrated laminate does not represent a wise investment. If a laminate product does not have a rating, it did not pass the certification process and was found lacking in one or more testing area.

AC 1 laminate is designated for light use in a home setting. It would be best suited for bedrooms where foot traffic is not particularly intense.

AC 2 flooring is also best for home use, but can withstand greater amounts of travel. AC2 laminate would be ideal in a formal room such as a living room or dining room.

AC 3 is durable enough for general home use in all traffic areas, and can be used in a professional setting with light foot traffic.

AC 4 is fit for commercial operations with standard amounts of foot traffic such as a small shop or office.

AC 5 is the toughest laminate flooring available, and is best used in a business with heavy amounts of foot traffic such as a public building or department store.

The Results

Anyone know what AC means.... (in this context.... just to make sure I keep the smart "A"s away from that comment) LOL

Does Bullet have a cross reference of shear to AC rating?

i have never looked for an ac rating on the packaging but i do find some laminates are a lot more "brittle" than others, but my e9 keeps punching through