Understanding the Technical Data of Forna Natural Composite Flooring

This guide explains the listed technical ratings of Forna Natural Composite flooring. Compare the test methods, measured results and installation limits for the intended application.

1. Castor Chair Suitability – EN 425

What it means: The floor is tested to handle “type W” soft castor office chairs.
Why it’s important: Rolling chairs won’t damage the surface, making the flooring ideal for home offices and commercial workspaces.

2. Fire Performance – CFL-S1

What it means: Meets a European fire classification designed for flooring products.

  • Very slow flame spread

  • Very low smoke generation

Why it’s important: Offers improved fire safety compared to many standard flooring types, providing peace of mind for homes and businesses.

3. Lightfastness – ISO 105 > 7

Listed lightfastness: above 7 on the 1–8 blue wool scale. This measures colour change under the specified test conditions; it does not guarantee that flooring will never fade.

4. Chemical Resistance – EN 423

What it means: Rated as having “Very Good” resistance.
Why it’s important: Everyday chemicals, accidental spills, and common household products are less likely to mark or damage the surface.

5. Low-Emission Certification – AgBB

What it means: Passes strict German air-quality tests conducted at 3 days and 28 days.
Why it’s important: Ensures healthier indoor air, especially important for homes, schools, healthcare settings, and workplaces.

6. Water Swell Protection – EN 317 < 1%

What it means: After being submerged in water for 24 hours, swelling stays below 1%.
Why it’s important: Excellent moisture stability makes it a strong choice for kitchens, basements, and other areas where humidity or spills are common.

7. Antistatic Properties – EN 1815 < 2 kV

What it means: Classified as antistatic.
Why it’s important: Reduces static buildup and prevents electrical discharge—beneficial around electronics or in dry climates.

8. Slip Resistance – R10 (EN 51130)

What it means: Rated R10 for general slip resistance.
Why it’s important: Provides secure footing in daily use, especially where occasional moisture is present.

9. Micro-Scratch Protection – EN 16094 (MSR-B1)

What it means: The wear layer resists fine scratches.
Why it’s important: Helps the floor maintain a clean, smooth appearance even in active households or busy commercial spaces.

10. Stain Resistance – EN 438-2 Grade 4-5

What it means: High stain resistance based on decorative surface testing standards.
Why it’s important: Spills such as wine, coffee, or food are less likely to leave permanent marks.

11. Impact Strength – EN 438-2 / EN 13329 (Class 34)

Impact test: withstands a large-ball drop from 1.8 meters under the stated test conditions. Check the test report and the product’s traffic rating.

12. Acoustic Performance – EN 140 (~18 dB)

What it means: Reduces impact sound by roughly 18 dB.
Why it’s important: Creates quieter rooms and minimizes noise transmission—ideal for condos, multi-level homes, and offices.

13. Dry Slip Rating – EN 13398 = DS (0.45)

What it means: Classified as dry-slip resistant.
Why it’s important: Helps ensure safe walking conditions in typical indoor environments.

14. Furniture Foot Resistance – EN 16581

What it means: No visible marks or damage during testing.
Why it’s important: Furniture legs and pressure points won’t easily dent or leave impressions.

15. Use Class Rating – EN 16511 (Class 23 & Class 33)

Class 23 – Heavy Residential Use

Suitable for busy areas in the home:

  • Entryways

  • Living rooms

  • Dining rooms

  • Hallways

Why it matters: Designed to handle frequent activity, pets, kids, and daily wear.

Class 33 – Heavy Commercial Use

Recommended for high-traffic commercial settings:

  • Offices

  • Retail spaces

  • Reception areas

  • Public corridors

Why it matters: Engineered for durability in demanding environments with continuous foot traffic.

Additional Advantages of Forna Natural Composite Flooring

✔ Natural Linseed Composite Surface

Built with a natural linseed composite surface and protected by a hardwearing PU finish.

✔ Verified Performance

Class 23/33 use ratings and product-specific emissions documentation support project specification.

✔ Waterproof Structure (ISO 4760) with Hydrowood Core

Compare the product’s water-resistance test results and installation limits with those of the alternative flooring.

✔ Recommended for Flood-Risk Areas

For areas prone to water intrusion, the approved glue-down installation system follows site-specific moisture requirements.

Ideal Installation Areas

✔ Basements

Stable in humid conditions and resistant to moisture.

✔ Commercial Environments

Durable enough for continuous foot traffic — offices, retail, education spaces, hospitality, and more.

✔ Residential Use

Check the product’s moisture limits and traffic rating before choosing it for kitchens, hallways, living rooms or entry areas.