SPC floors are the most durable waterproof vinyl floors on the market. It is comfortable, cost-effective and easy to maintain, and also creates a decorative look that mimics real hardwood or stone almost perfectly. The first thing we need to know is that vinyl floors are all made up of layers of different materials, usually four. SPC stands for "stone-plastic composite" or "stone-polymer composite" and refers to the composition of the "core" layer. It is made from a blend of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride and stabilizers, so it has a good stable base, which means you can install SPC flooring on almost any subfloor in your home.
SPC floor generally consists of the following four layers.
1. Wear-resistant layer: This layer is resistant to scratches and stains, transparent and durable, and easy to keep clean.
2. Vinyl Layer: Colors and patterns are printed on this vinyl layer to create the finished decorative effect of the floor.
3. SPC core layer: This core layer is dense and waterproof, providing rigidity and stability to the board.
4. Base layer: This layer is usually made of IXPE or EVA foam, which provides underfoot cushioning and sound insulation.
Different Kinds of SPC Flooring
1. Click-Lock SPC Plank Flooring
Click-Lock SPC floors offer the easiest installation method. SPC floors are designed with long and short sides so that two planks can be snapped together and form a tight grip. When installing, be sure to start from a corner of the room.
2. Glued SPC Plank Flooring
The installation of glued SPC floors is a little more laborious. Depending on the adhesive, you may need to check the concrete for moisture or use a moisture barrier to avoid damaging the planks. Similar to the click-to-lock SPC floor installation, you should start at one corner and work outwards. When installing, avoid using force, clips, or straps to hold the boards more tightly together, as this can result in twisted boards, poor bonding, or misalignment, etc.
3. Permanent Full Spread SPC Sheet Flooring
Installation of this type of floor requires a permanent pressure sensitive adhesive to be applied to the SPC floor. The adhesive needs to dry a bit first, and unlike the click lock and glue method, you don't start at the corners. You can start the installation from the center of the room, using floor rollers to remove trapped air and ensure a strong bond.
4. Releasable SPC Sheet Flooring
This SPC floor uses a thin layer of non-permanent adhesive so the next time you decide to replace the floor, it can be easily removed.
5. Loose-Lay SPC Sheet Flooring
The bonding method for this SPC floor is double sided acrylic tape or rubber backing. Its greatest advantage is that it is easy to disassemble because no glue or fasteners are used.