What is SPC flooring?

SPC is defined as Stone Plastic Composite or Stone Polymer Composite. It means that in its composition it has plastic and stone. That’s why they are considered a better version of luxury vinyl flooring. It consists of 5 layers in its interior. Here are the details:

• Wear layer: The top layer of the vinyl floor that is transparent. It is placed to add resistance to stains and scratches. It also gives the floor its durability.
• Vinyl Layer: Underneath the wear layer, you’ll find the top layer of vinyl flooring. It is waterproof and contains the design or color of your floor.
• SPC core: The SPC core is what makes it what it is. It is manufactured by combining limestone powder, vinyl, and stabilizers. This makes it a stable and waterproof floor.
• Base layer: This layer is attached to the core and allows to reduce the sound. It is made of IXPE or EVA foam.

In fact, their layouts are as wide and varied as vinyl flooring. Since, you can find imitation wood, ceramic, or stone. So natural you won’t notice the difference.

How is SPC flooring made?

Knowing the manufacturing process of SPC floors is interesting to understand its qualities. The materials have to go through five processes:

1. Firstly, the mixing process must be carried out. To do this, it is necessary to add the raw material to the mixer. Then, heat to a temperature of 125 to 130 °C. Finally, leave it to cool until you get a homogeneous mixture.
2. Secondly, the extrusion is performed. This process allows the plastification of the material. Therefore, it requires continuous monitoring of the temperature. In addition, this process reduces the temperature of the material slowly. Until you reach a plasticized and uniform material.
3. Thirdly, the material goes through the calendering process. Heated rollers are essential for this process. The material passes through the rollers and gradually gets the desired thickness and width. Then, the engraving or design that gives the floor its style is added. After placing the texture, apply the top layer or wear layer.
4. Afterward, comes the stretching process. As the name suggests, the material is stretched. This finishes giving it the desired thickness. Before being cut.
5. Finally, the material is cut transversely. In order to obtain the appropriate measurements. This cut is made by means of the cutter that is designed to make precise cuts. Also, to guarantee the equality of the boards.

What is the difference between SPC and WPC flooring?

They’re both types of luxury vinyl flooring. Both are 100% waterproof. Each one is durable. So what makes them different? The WPC has a wood and plastic core. The SPC, on the other hand, has a stone and plastic core. This is very important because that’s the main difference.

SPC manufacturing gives you the highest durability in your family. It’s literally “the tough guy”. For that reason, they’re tougher. And they’re 100% waterproof, too. Their rigid core makes them virtually indestructible. Because of this, they keep their shape even on irregular subfloors.

On the other hand, WPC flooring is friendly and ideal for pets and children. For this reason, you can use them in any space. They do not bend or curl in contact with water. Your best choice is looking for durability, waterproof properties, and beautiful layouts.

How to install SPC flooring

If you’re wondering if you can do it yourself. Definitely yes. However, it’s always good to have a professional perspective. If you want to do it, here’s how. First, level and clean the subfloor where you are going to install it. In short, this may be the most difficult step of the installation.

It’s a floating floor, so it doesn’t require adhesives. The planks are joined by holding the groove in the tongue. And by clicking between the boards. Although its core is rigid, it’s easy to cut. All you need is a sharp utility knife.

For this reason, you will need to place moldings and transition pieces to make your project perfect. There are often moldings that are similar or the same as your floor design.

SPC flooring pros and cons

These floors definitely have more advantages than disadvantages. We show you what they are so you can choose them properly.

SPC flooring advantages

• Waterproof: The rigid limestone core is one of the main advantages of these floors. Their composition and manufacture make them totally waterproof. That’s why they can be installed everywhere in your house. Besides, they are more stable in hot or cold places.
• Comfort: This feature is associated with the lower layers of the floor. They are thick and stable, therefore, they are padded floors. The thicker the plank, the greater the comfort of your floors. In addition, they can be quieter when walking.
• Affordability: They are less expensive than other types of luxury vinyl. Also, being easy to install can lower the cost of professional installation.
• Easy installation: These floors can be easily laid. Due to their features, they can be installed on multiple subfloors. They do not need adhesives or glues.
• Cleaning and maintenance: These floors are impact and scratch resistant. They also resist stains. That’s why their maintenance doesn’t require much effort. To clean it and keep it beautiful. It only requires regular sweeping and occasional mopping.
• Eco-friendly: The materials it’s designed with. They are usually renewable, recyclable, and low emission products. Therefore, they help to care for the environment.
• Pet-friendly: It’s perfect for homes with pets. They are the most durable of the luxury vinyl floors. That’s why, if you have pets and are looking for a suitable floor. SPC flooring is your choice.
• Style: SPC floors usually have multiple styles and colors. In fact, you can find the design you are looking for. Ask for our references by mail or SMS.

SPC flooring disadvantages

• Less added value to your home: SPC floors do not add much value to your home despite looking lovely due to homeowners’ preferences. However, this is the only disadvantage of these floors.
• Discoloration: SPC floors usually lose their tone over time due to constant exposure to sunlight.

Cleaning and maintenance

How to choose the right SPC flooring

Finally, you will want to know the facts that you need to consider when making your choice. If you have already decided on the SPC flooring, please keep in mind:

• Plank thickness: SPC floors are between 3.2 and 7 mm thick. The greater the thickness, the greater the stability. That’s why this feature is important in your choice. Although, you can also find a 12 mm SPC floor. Which will give you more durability in your beautiful styles.
• Plank size: The style of your floor will depend on this feature. For example, for large rooms, you may prefer longboards. For small rooms, you can choose short and narrow pieces to give more space to the view.
• Wear layer: The thickness of the wear layer is also important when choosing your SPC flooring. Because the durability of the floor depends on it. The thicker this layer is, the longer your floor will last.

In conclusion, when you buy your SPC floor, be sure to ask about the composition of your core. If you’ve read our entire article, you’ll know what you must have to be SPC. This way you’ll be wearing the right floor.