Class P
Meaning: The "P" stands for "Person" or "Private," indicating its primary use in areas with lower foot traffic.
Testing: A Taber Abraser machine with a specific abrasive wheel (CS-10F) rotates on the sample until it wears through the wear layer. The number of revolutions determines the class.
Sub-classes (from lowest to highest):
P1: ≥ 600 revolutions. For infrequently used rooms (e.g., bedrooms, guest rooms).
P2: ≥ 1,500 revolutions. For general residential use (e.g., living rooms, dining rooms). This is the most common choice for homes.
P3: ≥ 2,500 revolutions. For heavier residential or light commercial use (e.g., children's rooms, home offices, small boutiques).
P4: ≥ 4,000 revolutions. For general commercial use (e.g., offices, conference rooms, hotel rooms). Its performance is close to Class T.
Class T
Meaning: The "T" stands for "Traffic," clearly indicating its purpose for high-traffic public areas and places with rolling loads (carts, wheelchairs).
Testing: The test is more severe, using a coarser abrasive wheel (H-22). The required number of revolutions is therefore higher to achieve a class.
Sub-class:
T Class: ≥ 6,000 revolutions (tested with H-22 wheel). For heavy commercial and institutional use (e.g., hospitals, schools, airports, retail stores, libraries).
Selection Guide
Wear Class Taber Test Revolutions Recommended Use Areas Key Characteristics
P1 ≥ 600 Bedrooms, guest rooms, closets Lowest abrasion resistance, for very light traffic
P2 ≥ 1,500 Main residential choice: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms The best balance of cost and performance for most homes
P3 ≥ 2,500 Kids' rooms, balconies, light commercial offices Good scratch resistance, handles moving furniture well
P4 ≥ 4,000 General commercial: Offices, meeting rooms, hotels A "premium" choice for homes, very durable
T Class ≥ 6,000 Public/Commercial: Hospitals, malls, airports, schools Professional grade, withstands carts and very high traffic
Important Notes
Wear Layer Thickness: The class is directly linked to the thickness of the wear layer (measured in mm). Always check both the class and the thickness (e.g., 0.55mm) when comparing options.
Comfort vs. Durability: T-Class floors are extremely durable but are often harder and less comfortable underfoot than softer P-Class floors. For homes, a very high class may be unnecessary.
Other Properties: Also consider other properties like stain resistance, slip resistance, and ease of cleaning based on the room's function (e.g., kitchen, bathroom).
Recommendation
For Homes: Class P2 or P3 is perfectly sufficient and offers the best value.
For High-Traffic Homes (pets, children): Consider Class P4 for longer lifespan.
For Commercial Spaces: Choose at least Class P4, and Class T for areas like entrances, corridors, and retail spaces.