Unlike traditional vinyl flooring, which is made up of a single layer of material, SPC and WPC (wood plastic composite) rigid core floors have at least six layers. These layers are what make them so durable, versatile and eye-catching. They also make them waterproof, hygienic and stable in temperature fluctuation.
The outermost layer of an SPC vinyl flooring manufacturer is a thin sheet of vinyl that contains the color, pattern and texture you are shopping for. This layer is usually 8 to 12mil thick and can be printed with anything from stone patterns to wood grain patterns. Some brands also add relief embossing to the wear layer to create a more realistic look and feel.
Next comes the core layer of an SPC floor. This layer is made of a mixture of limestone powder and stabilizers. This combination makes the floor rigid, so it can withstand heavy foot traffic and impact without tearing or buckling. It is also 100% water-resistant, which means you can install it in kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms.
Many SPC floors come with an attached underlayment that helps reduce sound and provides a soft cushion for feet. This is optional, but it’s a good idea. It will also help keep your new floor looking like new for longer.
Rigid core floors are available in a variety of styles to match your home’s decor. Some come in the popular wood-look and stone-look trends you’ve seen everywhere from magazines to TV shows. Other options are more neutral and modern. You can even find a few floors that mimic concrete.
The most significant advantage of SPC over other types of flooring is that it’s waterproof. This is a huge benefit that allows you to use it in places other floors cannot be installed, such as in basements, bathrooms and on all grade levels of a house. It also makes cleaning a breeze.
One drawback of rigid core flooring is that it can feel hard underfoot compared to WPC. That’s because of the rigid stone composite core, which is inflexible and cold. However, if you are shopping for a durable floor that is comfortable and works well in spaces with a lot of foot traffic, then SPC is the perfect choice.
Despite its durability, SPC is not likely to increase your home’s resale value. That’s because it isn’t a real wood or tile floor, so it won’t be attractive to most buyers.
If you want a sturdy, stylish and functional floor that can be used in almost any room, then consider an SPC vinyl floor. It will last for 15 to 25 years if you are careful with it and have a shoes-off policy in most rooms. With a little extra care, you can extend its lifespan even further. Just remember that no floor is indestructible, so you’ll still need to sweep, mop and vacuum regularly. For a deeper clean, you can occasionally use a mild detergent to get rid of dirt and grime that builds up.