Scratch Resistance

Scratch resistance simply refers to the flooring material’s ability to withstand and resist scratches, scuffs, and marks caused by everyday wear and tear.

It is an essential component you should consider when selecting a flooring option, as it determines how well the floor can maintain its appearance and durability over time, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children.

Highly Scratch Resistant Options

Some flooring materials are exceptionally scratch-resistant, making them suitable for busy households or commercial spaces. These include:

  • Porcelain or ceramic tile: Hard and dense, these tiles are highly resistant to scratches and can withstand heavy foot traffic.
  • Natural stone: Materials like granite, slate, and travertine are naturally durable and less likely to scratch under regular use.
  • Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVP or LVT): High-quality luxury vinyl floors have a wear layer that provides excellent scratch resistance.
  • Some laminate flooring: Laminate with an AC (Abrasion Class) rating of AC4 or AC5 offers increased scratch resistance.

Moderate Scratch Resistance

These fall in the middle in terms of scratch resistance:

  • Hardwood: Solid hardwood floors can be durable, but they are susceptible to scratching, especially with softer wood species. Harder woods like oak and hickory tend to be more scratch-resistant.
  • Engineered hardwood: Engineered hardwood floors can be fairly scratch resistant, although just like solid hardwood this depends on the top layer’s hardness.

Low Scratch Resistance

Some flooring materials are more prone to scratching and may not be the best choice for high-traffic areas:

  • Softwood flooring: Softwoods like pine or fir are less scratch-resistant and may show wear more quickly.
  • Solid bamboo: Bamboo flooring can be more prone to scratching due to its softer surface.

The GTA's Flooring Experts

Discover a world of unique flooring choices, including scratch resistant options.

Get In Touch

Send a Message