Brand

Brand: The brand refers to the company that manufactures or supplies the flooring product. Knowing the brand can give you an idea of the product's quality, durability, and overall reputation in the market.

Collection

Collection: This refers to a specific line or range of flooring products offered by the brand. Collections often have a common theme, design, or set of features and are curated to meet particular aesthetic or functional needs.

Model Code

Model Code: This is a unique identifier often related to the color or specific design of the product within its collection. The manufacturer uses this code to differentiate between various styles, finishes, or hues available, making it easier for you to find the exact product you're looking for.

Model Name

Model Name: This is the more user-friendly name given to the product, as opposed to the Model Code. Often descriptive and easier to remember, the Model Name gives you a quick idea of the product's style, color, or special features. It serves as an easy reference when discussing or searching for the product.

CE Certification

CE Certification: This indicates that the flooring product complies with European safety, health, and environmental requirements, as outlined by relevant European directives. A CE mark on the product signifies that it has passed rigorous testing and quality control measures. The certification is widely recognized and often required for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA), but it is also respected globally as a mark of quality and safety.

Floor Score

Certifies compliance with rigorous indoor air quality requirements. FloorScore® certification ensures that hard surface flooring and adhesives are tested for compliance with rigorous indoor air quality requirements. FloorScore ® is the most recognized indoor air quality (IAQ) certification standard for hard surface flooring materials, adhesives, and underlayments. Developed by SCS with the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI), a leading industry trade association of flooring manufacturers and suppliers, it qualifies for many green building schemes including LEED v4, WELL, BREEAM, and CHPS.

Phthalates Free

PVC products which are phthalates free, meaning that they will not affect your quality of life. Phtalates are organic compounds derived from phthalic acid. They are mainly used as plasticizers, a substance added to plastic, particularly PVC, to give flexibility or other qualities. Phtalates are found in many common objects such as shower curtain, kid’s toys, medical tools and sometimes flooring. It has been proven along the years that phtalates are not chemically attached to the plastic that contains them, meaning they can be released in the air and inhaled. Some phtalates are suspected of having adverse effects on the human endocrine system and the reproductive system. The endocrine system consists of all organs and glands that produce hormones. The hormones have the function of regulating metabolism, growth, development and many more essential body functions.

VOC Free Certified

VOC Free Certified: This certification indicates that the flooring product emits no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals that can evaporate into the air and potentially cause health issues or contribute to indoor air pollution. VOC Free Certified flooring is a healthier choice for indoor environments, especially for those with allergies, asthma, or chemical sensitivities.

SGS Certified

SGS Certified: This means the flooring product has undergone rigorous testing by SGS, a recognized third-party inspection, verification, testing, and certification company. The certification assures that the product meets specific safety, quality, and performance standards. SGS certification often covers aspects like durability, chemical emissions, and environmental impact, providing an extra layer of confidence in the product's quality and safety

Total Thickness

Total Thickness: This indicates the overall thickness of each plank in the flooring product, usually measured in millimeters (mm). The thickness can impact various aspects of the floor, such as comfort underfoot, sound insulation, and durability. A thicker plank generally offers better sound insulation and a more solid feel, making it important to consider based on the intended use and location of the flooring.

Wear Layer Thickness

Wear Layer Thickness: This refers to the top layer of the flooring plank that is designed to resist wear and tear from foot traffic, furniture, and daily use. Measured in mils (thousandths of an inch), the thickness of this layer is a key indicator of the flooring's durability. A thicker wear layer generally means the floor will be more resistant to scratching and denting, extending the lifespan of the product.

Core Thickness

Core Thickness: This refers to the thickness of the central layer or 'core' of a plank or tile flooring product, usually measured in millimeters (mm). The core is what gives the plank its rigidity and stability. A thicker core generally means a more durable product that is less likely to dent or buckle over time. It may also offer better sound insulation and a more solid feel underfoot. Core thickness is especially important in engineered products like luxury vinyl planks or engineered hardwood, as it contributes to the overall durability and quality of the flooring

Finish Type

Finish Type: This refers to the texture and appearance of the flooring's surface, affecting both its visual appeal and functional characteristics such as slip-resistance and feel underfoot.

Edge Type

Edge Type: This term refers to the design and finish of the sides of each flooring plank. Different edge types such as 4-sided deep beveled, micro-beveled, or pressed beveled, can influence the floor's overall appearance, how the planks fit together, and the ease of installation.

Format

Plank Format: This indicates the shape and arrangement of the flooring product. It can come in either a plank or tile format. Planks are typically long, rectangular pieces ideal for creating a wood-look floor, while tiles are square or rectangular pieces that are often used to mimic stone or ceramic flooring.

Installation Type

Installation Type: This specifies the method used to install the flooring. Options may include floating, where the planks are not attached to the subfloor but lock together; glue-down, where adhesive is used to secure the flooring to the subfloor; click, which involves a click-lock mechanism for easy installation; loose lay, which doesn't require glue or clicking but lies flat on the subfloor; or self-adhesive, where the back of the plank or tile has a pre-applied adhesive layer.

Locking System

Plank Locking System: This refers to the specific mechanism used to securely connect individual flooring planks together in click installation methods. The locking system ensures that the planks fit snugly and stay in place, providing a seamless and stable flooring surface

Material (Core Type)

Material (Core Type): This indicates the composition of the core layer of the flooring plank, which is critical for stability, durability, and performance. Core types like SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) or WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) offer different benefits, such as increased rigidity or better acoustic properties.

Plank Length

Plank Length: This indicates the length of each individual flooring plank in the product. The length of the planks can affect the visual flow and pattern of the flooring when installed. Longer planks often create a more seamless, expansive look, while shorter planks can add visual interest through more frequent seams.

Plank Width

Plank Width: This refers to the width of each individual flooring plank. The width can significantly influence the overall appearance of the floor once installed. Wider planks can make a room appear larger and more open, while narrower planks often give a more traditional look and can add depth to smaller spaces.

Plank Color (Group)

Plank Color (Group): This refers to the general color classification of the flooring planks. This grouping is not defined by the manufacturer but is a logical categorization to help customers filter and compare products with similar color tones more easily.

Maximum Length Without Transition Moulding

Maximum Length Without Transition Moulding: This feature specifies the longest continuous length the flooring can be installed without needing a transition moulding. Transition mouldings are used to bridge gaps between different sections or types of flooring, usually for aesthetic or expansion reasons. Understanding this measurement can help you plan your installation more effectively.

Underpad Attached

Underpad Attached: This indicates whether the flooring plank comes with an attached underpad or not. An attached underpad simplifies the installation process and may provide added benefits like sound dampening, thermal insulation, and a softer feel underfoot. If the underpad is not attached, you may need to purchase it separately depending on the requirements of your flooring project.

Underpad Thickness

Underpad Thickness: This specifies the thickness of the attached underpad, if applicable. The thickness of the underpad can affect both comfort and insulation properties. A thicker underpad generally offers better sound dampening and a softer feel when walking on the flooring.

Attached Underpad Type

Attached Underpad Type: This feature indicates the material composition of the attached underpad. Different types of underpad materials offer varying levels of sound dampening, insulation, and moisture resistance. Knowing the type can help you assess the flooring's suitability for your specific needs.

Classes of use

Classes of Use: This term refers to the suitability of the flooring for different levels of foot traffic and wear, categorized typically for residential, commercial, or industrial settings. These classes help you understand how durable the flooring is and where it can be most effectively used.

Dimensional Stability - X Direction (ISO 23999-2008)

Dimensional Stability - X Direction (ISO 23999-2008): This is a technical specification that measures how much the flooring material will expand, contract, or deform along its length when exposed to changes in temperature and humidity. It adheres to ISO 23999-2008 standards, ensuring that the flooring meets certain quality benchmarks for dimensional stability.

Dimensional Stability - Y Direction (ISO 23999:2008)

Dimensional Stability - Y Direction (ISO 23999:2008): This measures the flooring material's ability to maintain its original dimensions along its width when exposed to varying conditions such as temperature and humidity. It is a quality assurance measure that adheres to the ISO 23999:2008 standard, providing a benchmark for the flooring's stability in the Y-direction.

Stain Resistance (ISO 26987:2008)

Stain Resistance (ISO 26987:2008): This refers to the flooring material's ability to resist stains, measured according to the ISO 26987:2008 standard. It provides a benchmark for how well the flooring can withstand common household stains, indicating the quality and ease of maintenance you can expect.

Vinyl Product Type

Vinyl Product Type": This refers to the specific form in which the vinyl flooring is available. The type will influence various factors like installation methods, durability, and appearance. Knowing the product type helps you understand what to expect in terms of installation and maintenance.

Slip Resistance (DIN 51130)

Slip Resistance (DIN 51130): This indicates the slip resistance of the flooring according to the DIN 51130 standard. This metric is crucial for safety, especially in areas that may be prone to wet or slippery conditions. A higher slip resistance rating means the flooring provides better grip, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Surface Treatment

Surface Treatment: This refers to any additional coatings or treatments applied to the top layer of the flooring to enhance its durability, appearance, or performance characteristics. Surface treatments can provide various benefits, such as improved scratch resistance, stain resistance, or UV protection. Always consult the manufacturer's specifications to understand the advantages of the surface treatment used on your flooring.

Residual Indentation (ISO 24343-1:2007)

Residual Indentation (ISO 24343-1:2007): This specification measures how well the flooring recovers its original shape after being subjected to a load or pressure. The test is conducted in accordance with the ISO 24343-1:2007 standard. A lower residual indentation value indicates that the flooring has better resilience and ability to regain its original form after pressure is removed. This is an important consideration for areas with heavy foot traffic or where furniture may be placed.

Curling After Exposure to Heat (ISO 23999:2008)

Curling After Exposure to Heat (ISO 23999:2008): This metric evaluates how much the flooring material curls or warps when subjected to elevated temperatures, in accordance with the ISO 23999:2008 standard. It is an important measure of the product's thermal stability and indicates how well the flooring will maintain its shape in conditions of varying heat, such as direct sunlight or underfloor heating. Lower curling values suggest better heat resistance and dimensional stability of the flooring material.

STC Rating

STC Rating: STC stands for Sound Transmission Class, a measure that evaluates how well a material attenuates airborne sound, like voices or music. An STC rating provides an idea of how much sound a flooring material will either block or allow to pass through. Higher STC ratings indicate better sound insulation properties, making the flooring a good choice for settings where noise reduction is a priority. This is particularly important in multi-level buildings or spaces that require a quieter environment.

IIC Rating

"IIC Rating": IIC stands for Impact Insulation Class, which is a measure used to evaluate a floor's ability to absorb and reduce impact noise, such as footsteps or dropped objects. A higher IIC rating indicates better impact sound insulation, meaning the floor is better at minimizing noise heard in the room below. This rating is particularly important in multi-story residential or commercial buildings, where impact noise can be a concern for occupants.

Low Temperature Tolerance

"Low Temperature Tolerance": This indicates the lowest temperature at which the flooring material is designed to perform optimally without cracking, warping, or undergoing other forms of damage. Expressed as a specific temperature number (usually in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius), it helps users understand the suitability of the product for colder climates or unheated spaces.

High Temperature Tolerance

"High Temperature Tolerance": This feature specifies the highest temperature at which the flooring material can maintain its integrity and appearance without suffering from issues like warping, discoloration, or other forms of damage. The tolerance is usually given as a specific temperature number, either in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius, and is useful for consumers to gauge the material's suitability for hotter climates or spaces exposed to high heat.

Residential Application

"Residential Application": This indicates whether the flooring product is suitable for use in residential settings like homes and apartments. If marked as appropriate for residential application, it generally means the product has been tested and deemed durable and safe enough for everyday household use.

Commercial Application

"Commercial Application": This term specifies if the flooring is suitable for commercial settings, such as offices, retail spaces, or public buildings. Products marked for commercial application are generally designed to withstand higher foot traffic and more wear and tear compared to those intended solely for residential use.

Residential Warranty

"Residential Warranty": This indicates the duration, usually in years, for which the flooring product is warrantied when used in a residential setting. It serves as a guarantee of the product's durability and quality, covering specific issues that may arise during this period under normal residential use conditions.

Commercial Warranty

"Commercial Warranty": This term specifies the length of time, generally measured in years, that a flooring product is covered under warranty when installed in a commercial setting. The warranty acts as an assurance of the product's quality and durability in higher-traffic conditions often encountered in commercial spaces.

Warranty Description

Density

"Density": This refers to the mass per unit volume of the flooring material, often measured in pounds per cubic foot (pcf) or kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³). A higher density usually indicates a more durable and stable product that is less susceptible to dents and wear over time. Understanding the density can help you gauge the quality and longevity of the flooring.

Flammability Class (EN ISO9239-1)

"Flammability Class (EN ISO 9239-1)": This refers to the product's classification based on its fire resistance as per the EN ISO 9239-1 standard. The flammability class provides crucial information about how the flooring material will behave in case of a fire, including aspects like how quickly it will catch fire or how much it will contribute to a fire's spread. This is an important safety metric to consider, especially in commercial settings or multi-unit residences.

Impact Sound Insulation (ISO717-2)

"Impact Sound Insulation (ISO 717-2)": This refers to the flooring material's ability to reduce impact sound or noise that is transmitted through the floor when an object hits its surface. The measure is based on the ISO 717-2 standard, which outlines the procedures for determining sound insulation in buildings and building elements. Higher levels of impact sound insulation mean less noise will be transmitted, making the flooring a good choice for multi-story buildings or spaces where noise reduction is a priority.

Light Stability (EN20105-B02)

"Light Stability (EN20105-B02)": This indicates the flooring material's resistance to color fading or degradation when exposed to natural or artificial light. The measure is based on the EN20105-B02 standard, which outlines the methods for assessing the lightfastness of textiles and similar materials. A higher light stability rating implies that the flooring is less likely to fade or discolor over time when exposed to light, maintaining its original appearance for a longer period. This is particularly important for areas with high exposure to sunlight.

Radiant Heat Compatible

"Radiant Heat Compatible": This feature indicates whether the flooring material is suitable for use with radiant heating systems. Radiant heating systems provide heat through the floor, and not all flooring materials are compatible with this type of heating. If a flooring product is marked as "Radiant Heat Compatible," it means that the material has been tested and approved for use over radiant heating, ensuring that it won't warp, buckle, or undergo other types of damage when heated from below. This compatibility is important for those planning to install or who already have in-floor heating systems.

Compatible Radiant Heat Type

"Compatible Radiant Heat Type": This specification identifies the type of radiant heating systems with which the flooring is compatible. Radiant heating can be either electric or water-based, and not all flooring materials work well with both. Knowing the "Compatible Radiant Heat Type" ensures that the flooring you choose will function effectively and maintain its integrity when installed over your specific radiant heating system, be it electric or water-based. This information is crucial for those who have or plan to install radiant heating in their space.

Suitable Locations

"Suitable Locations": This feature indicates the specific areas or types of rooms where the flooring is most appropriately installed. Whether it's suitable for high-moisture areas like bathrooms, high-traffic areas like hallways, or specialized commercial spaces, this information helps you make an informed decision about where the flooring will perform best. Knowing the "Suitable Locations" for a flooring product ensures that you choose the right material for the specific needs of each space in your home or commercial property.

VOC Compliant

"VOC Compliant": This feature indicates that the flooring product complies with standards for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), meaning it emits low or no harmful gases into the air. VOC compliance is especially important for indoor air quality and can be a critical factor for those with allergies, asthma, or other sensitivities to air pollutants. Selecting a VOC-compliant flooring option contributes to a healthier living or working environment.

Water Resistant

"Water Resistant": This feature signifies that the flooring material has a certain level of resistance to water damage. While not completely waterproof, water-resistant flooring can withstand moisture to some extent, making it suitable for areas where spills or minor water exposure may occur. This is an important consideration for rooms like kitchens or bathrooms, where water spills are more likely.

Chemical Resistance (EN 423)

"Chemical Resistance (EN 423)": This signifies that the flooring material has been tested and complies with the EN 423 standard for resistance to chemicals. Flooring with this certification can withstand exposure to common household or industrial chemicals without experiencing significant damage, discoloration, or degradation. This is important in environments where the flooring may come into contact with cleaning agents, spills, or other chemicals.

Phthalate Free

"Phthalate Free": This indicates that the flooring material does not contain phthalates, a group of chemicals often used to increase the flexibility and durability of plastics. Phthalates have raised health concerns and may be restricted or banned in some products. Choosing a "Phthalate Free" flooring option is a safer choice, particularly for homes with children or pets, or for those looking for a more eco-friendly solution.

Castor Chair Resistance (EN425)

"Castor Chair Resistance (EN425)": This refers to the flooring's ability to withstand wear and tear caused by rolling office chairs or similar furniture. The EN425 standard measures how well the surface can resist deformation, fraying, or other damage from the continuous movement of castor wheels. A higher resistance rating would be ideal for office spaces or areas where rolling chairs are commonly used.

Effect Of Castor Chair (ISO 4918:2016)

"Effect Of Castor Chair (ISO 4918:2016)": This specification assesses the flooring material's durability and resistance to the impacts of rolling chairs, based on the ISO 4918:2016 standard. The test evaluates how well the flooring withstands pressure, rolling, and wear from castor chairs over time. If the flooring performs well under these conditions, it is considered suitable for environments like offices where rolling chairs are frequently used.

SQFT Per Box

This refers to the total square footage that the planks or tiles in a single box will cover when installed. Knowing this information is essential for calculating the quantity of boxes you'll need for your flooring project. It helps to ensure that you purchase enough material, taking into account both the size of the area to be floored and any additional percentage for waste or mistakes.

Planks Per Box

"Planks Per Box": This specifies the exact number of planks that are contained in each box. It's an important detail for accurately calculating how many boxes you'll need to complete your flooring project. The number can vary from one product to another, so always check this information before making a purchase.

Boxes Per Pallet

"Boxes Per Pallet": This feature indicates the number of boxes that come on a single pallet. Knowing this can help you plan for bulk orders or large-scale projects, as it can be more cost-effective and efficient to order by the pallet rather than individual boxes. This information is particularly useful for contractors or anyone planning a sizable flooring installation.

Box Weight (Grams)

"Box Weight (Grams)": This specification indicates the total weight of a single box of flooring material, measured in grams. Knowing the weight can be important for shipping calculations, storage planning, and even for the actual installation process. It helps you gauge how easy the boxes will be to move and manage, especially if you're planning to install the flooring yourself.

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