What is SPC Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring?
What is SPC Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring?
SPC Vinyl Flooring Overview
Stone plastic composite vinyl flooring is considered to be an upgraded version of engineered vinyl flooring. SPC rigid flooring is set apart from other types of vinyl flooring by its uniquely resilient core layer. This core is made from a combination of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers. This provides an incredibly stable base for each flooring plank. You can’t tell that is what’s inside these floors once they’re installed. The floors look like any other engineered vinyl floors, with the core completely hidden underneath.
Each plank of SPC rigid vinyl flooring is constructed with the following layers:
- Wear layer: This transparent layer is at the top. It provides resistance to scratches and stains and is easy to keep clean.
- Vinyl layer: This layer provides the decoration for the plank. Colors and patterns are printed onto the vinyl.
- SPC layer: This is the dense, waterproof core for the plank made of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers. It provides rigidity and stability for the plank.
- Pre-attached underpad: This layer is generally made from IXPE or EVA foam, which provides sound insulation and cushioning.
Pros and Cons of SPC Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring
Benefits of SPC
SPC rigid vinyl flooring is quickly becoming one of the most popular trends in home flooring. Installing SPC vinyl flooring offers the following benefits to homeowners:
Waterproof
One of the biggest benefits of choosing SPC rigid core vinyl flooring is that it has a completely waterproof core. Unlike hardwood, you can install it in the wetter areas of the home such as laundry rooms. Making it a great flooring option for bathrooms and kitchens. The waterproof feature also makes this board more stable in environments where moisture and temperature can fluctuate.
Easy Installation
Many homeowners appreciate that SPC floors are easy to install. You can place them on top of many different types of subfloors or existing flooring. If you choose the ‘snap vinyl flooring’ designs you will eliminate the need for messy and complicated glues.
Affordability
While it is more expensive than standard vinyl flooring, SPC vinyl floors are generally less expensive than other types of luxury flooring, such as hardwood and stone. In addition to being a cheap flooring option, homeowners can often install the floors without professional assistance, so DIY installation of SPC flooring can save even more money on this upgrade.
Style
SPC vinyl flooring is like standard vinyl in that it is available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Some SPC flooring styles look like hardwood, tile, or other types of flooring. The wide range of options is preferable for those who want to be able to customize the look of their home.
Comfort
The thick, stable bottom layers of each plank make SPC flooring more cushioned than other types of flooring. The thicker the plank you choose, the more comfortable it will feel underfoot. These dense layers also contribute to a quieter sound when walking on SPC floors; they usually do not have a hollow or thin sound like standard vinyl often does.
Easy Maintenance
SPC rigid core vinyl flooring is very durable. Because it is incredibly dense, it’s resistant to impacts, stains, scratches, and wear and tear. This flooring style is a great choice for busy households because in addition to holding up well, it is easy to keep clean. Maintenance involves only regular vacuuming or sweeping and occasional mopping. Over time, this type of flooring resists fading, peeling, and cupping. It also withstands direct exposure to sunlight.
Drawbacks of SPC
With so many benefits to using SPC flooring, it may seem like an obvious choice for homeowners. However, before you select SPC floors for your home, be sure to consider these potential drawbacks:
Less Added Value for Your Home
Installing hardwood and other upscale flooring adds the most value to your home. While SPC rigid vinyl floors look stylish, homeowners traditionally favor homes with solid hardwood floors.
Less Eco-Friendly Than Other Floorings
If you’re concerned about making environmentally friendly upgrades to your home, you may want to avoid vinyl. While there have been improvements in using recycled materials and removing harmful chemicals from SPC flooring, it is still considered less eco-friendly compared to many other flooring options that are made from renewable resources, especially hardwood, cork, and bamboo.
Shopping for SPC Floors
You’ll have different options for plank size, plank thickness, and wear layer thickness when you shop for SPC floors. Plank size is all about style preference, so be sure to compare different sizes in photographs of installed floors to see which style you like best. For plank thickness, keep in mind that thicker planks have increased durability and stability. You’ll typically find that SPC planks range from about 3.2 to 7 millimeters thick. A thicker wear layer is preferable as well; wear layer thickness generally ranges from about 0.2 to 0.7 millimeters.
You may also see SPC flooring advertised or labeled under the following names:
- Rigid vinyl plank
- Waterproof vinyl flooring
- Engineered luxury vinyl flooring
Be sure to inquire about the makeup of the plank core to ensure it is actually SPC rigid vinyl flooring. There are other types of luxury vinyl flooring that are not made with a core of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers.
If you’re ready to give your home a serious upgrade, consider installing SPC rigid vinyl floors. It has a number of benefits that make it a solid investment, and it’s especially practical for families with pets and kids. The easy installation and relatively affordable price will also help to keep costs down. With nearly limitless design options, it’s also easy to find a look that suits your style.
