What is SPC? Evaluating the advantages of SPC flooring

SPC flooring, also known as Stone Plastic Composite flooring, is an increasingly popular flooring material that resembles wood, tiles, and natural stone. It is gaining traction as a replacement for other flooring options such as ceramic tiles, natural wood, and engineered wood. SPC flooring offers several advantages found in existing materials on the market, including resistance to pests, decay, scratches, and water. Additionally, it is easy to install and maintain, making it a desirable choice for many. Consequently, SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) flooring has become significantly popular in the flooring industry due to its durability, water resistance, and affordability.

1. What is SPC?

SPC flooring, or Stone Plastic Composite flooring, is a rigid vinyl flooring that has gained popularity in the flooring industry. It is a multi-layered product crafted by combining natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and various stabilizing agents.

The following are the commonly seen components and layers in SPC flooring:

• Wear Layer (UV Layer)

The transparent UV layer combined with the top surface additives serves to prevent the impact of UV rays on the material structure, limiting color fading of SPC vinyl planks.

The primary function of this layer is to protect the flooring from external factors such as water resistance, slip resistance, scratch resistance, dirt resistance, and easy cleaning.

• Film Layer (Pattern)

The printed vinyl layer utilizes advanced printing techniques to create realistic and high-resolution patterns and textures that mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood, stone, or tiles.

• Core Layer

The core layer is made from a blend of Polyvinyl Chloride resin, natural limestone powder, and additives, undergoing processes such as high-temperature and high-pressure pressing to form the rigid core layer. This composite core layer provides rigidity and stability to the flooring, ensuring excellent dimensional stability and resistance to expansion or contraction due to temperature and humidity changes.

• Underlayment Layer

This layer provides additional cushioning to enhance sound insulation, reduce noise transmission, and prevent moisture from rising up from the subfloor. Moreover, the underlayment layer helps maintain the stability and balance of the flooring, preventing issues such as warping or cupping.

SPC flooring is typically installed as a floating floor, meaning it is not glued down or nailed to the subfloor. Instead, individual planks or tiles are interlocked using a click-and-lock mechanism. This installation method allows for easy installation and removal. Furthermore, SPC flooring offers a wide range of styles, designs, and finishes, allowing homeowners and designers to achieve various aesthetics without incurring higher costs and maintenance compared to natural materials. Its rigid structure provides stability and resistance to impacts, scratches, and stains.

Overall, SPC flooring has become a popular choice for those seeking a durable, visually appealing, and easy-to-maintain flooring solution.

Advantages of SPC flooring

Advantages of SPC flooring

• High durability 

SPC flooring is designed to withstand high foot traffic, making it an excellent choice for both residential and commercial applications.

It is scratch-resistant, impact-resistant, and highly resistant to wear and tear due to its specially treated-high-tech construction. Therefore, SPC flooring is more durable compared to other flooring materials such as natural wood, tiles, and ceramics.

• Waterproof and slip-resistant

 SPC flooring has a protective wear layer that effectively repels water, minimizing the risk of slips and falls.

Additionally, the underlayment layer prevents contact with moisture rising from the ground, reducing the chances of prolonged dampness and mold growth. Therefore, this product is suitable for areas regularly exposed to water, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

• Easy installation and maintenance

Installing SPC vinyl flooring is quick and straightforward due to its smart click-lock mechanism that allows the planks to easily interlock without the need for adhesives, nails, or screws like other types of flooring.

Moreover, being made of waterproof materials and specially treated, the surface of SPC flooring is smooth and shiny, limiting dust accumulation and making it easy to clean. Therefore, SPC flooring is easy to maintain, requiring regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional damp mopping to keep it in optimal condition.

  

• Wide range of designs

SPC flooring offers a wide variety of designs with wood grain patterns that are more vibrant and sophisticated compared to natural materials like wood, stone, and tiles.

Moreover, with over 500 different colors and patterns available, customers have more choices to select a product that suits their preferences and overall home design without incurring higher costs and maintenance compared to natural materials.

• Environmentally friendly material

SPC flooring is crafted using fresh plastic, natural stone powder, and carefully tested additives, resulting in an environmentally conscious product.

Additionally, SPC flooring is free from VOCs like formaldehyde, heavy metals, carcinogens, and other harmful substances, ensuring the well-being of its users.

Thorough research and consultation with experts from Vinnature regarding SPC flooring will ensure that you make an informed decision that aligns with your aesthetics, budget, and lifestyle preferences.

Some of the recognized certifications for SPC flooring

• FloorScore

The FloorScore certification ensures that the SPC flooring products meet strict indoor air quality (IAQ) standards.

It verifies that the flooring materials have low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, which can contribute to poor indoor air quality and potential health issues.

• GREENGUARD

The GREENGUARD certification program focuses on indoor air quality and verifies that products, including flooring, meet stringent emission limits for various pollutants.

GREENGUARD Gold is a stricter certification, indicating that the product is suitable for use in environments such as schools and healthcare facilities.

• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)

LEED is a widely recognized green building certification system.

While it certifies buildings rather than specific products, using flooring that meets LEED requirements can contribute to accumulating points for LEED certification.

• SGS Certified

SGS certification in flooring involves assessing factors such as quality, performance, safety, environmental compliance, manufacturing processes, and sustainability.

• ISO 14001

While not specific to flooring, ISO 14001 is an internationally recognized standard for environmental management systems.

Manufacturers with ISO 14001 certification have implemented practices to minimize environmental impact, reduce waste, and improve resource efficiency.

In summary, these standards ensure that SPC flooring meets specific environmental criteria and has undergone testing or evaluation by independent organizations.

Visit Vinnature showroom or consult with our experts to explore our range of SPC flooring options and find the perfect fit for your home!!