SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) flooring has become a popular choice in recent years for both residential and commercial spaces due to its durability, ease of installation, and attractive appearance. However, with an overwhelming variety of products on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right SPC flooring. In this article, we’ll guide you through the key factors to consider when selecting SPC flooring, from understanding the basics of SPC to evaluating product quality and installation tips.
1. What is SPC Flooring?
SPC flooring is a type of LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank), which is an umbrella term that refers to any vinyl floor that comes in plank form. While LVP includes SPC, it also encompasses other types of floating vinyl flooring such as WPC (Wood Plastic Composite). In simple terms, SPC is a subset of LVP, and the two terms are often used interchangeably, especially when discussing floating vinyl flooring options like SPC and WPC.
SPC flooring is composed of a rigid core made from a blend of limestone and PVC, which provides superior strength, stability, and water resistance. It’s a popular choice for areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, while also being an excellent option for high-traffic residential and commercial areas.
2. Wear Layer: How Much Is Enough?
One of the most talked-about aspects of SPC flooring is the wear layer, which is the top protective coating that shields the floor from scratches, stains, and general wear from foot traffic. The wear layer is typically measured in mils (1 mil = 0.001 inches), and many consumers focus heavily on wear layer thickness when choosing their flooring.
Residential Needs: For most residential applications, a 12mil wear layer is sufficient. This thickness offers a good balance of durability and cost-effectiveness. Floors with a 12mil wear layer can handle regular foot traffic and will last many years without significant damage.
Commercial Needs: If you’re installing flooring in a commercial space where foot traffic is heavier, consider going for a 20mil wear layer or higher. A thicker wear layer is more resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for offices, retail spaces, or other areas with high traffic.
It’s important to note that the thickness of the wear layer does not affect the floor’s resistance to dents, scratches, or scuffs. Many consumers mistakenly believe that thicker wear layers provide more protection against these factors, but this is not the case. The wear layer is primarily designed to protect the design and color of the floor from wear, not to prevent surface damage.
3. Quality of the Product: Don’t Just Focus on Wear Layer
While the wear layer is important, overall quality is determined by more than just thickness. In particular, the quality of the milling and locking system should be a priority. The milling refers to how well the planks are cut and the consistency of their shape, while the locking system ensures that the planks stay securely in place once installed.
Quality Locking Systems: A high-quality SPC floor will feature a robust and easy-to-use locking system, such as click-lock or drop-lock systems. Poorly made planks with cheap milling and weak locks can lead to installation issues, such as gaps between planks or planks that don’t stay locked together.
Subfloor Preparation: SPC floors generally require a flat subfloor for proper installation. Most manufacturers recommend that the subfloor be flat within 3/16” over 10 feet. If the subfloor isn’t flat, even the best SPC flooring won’t perform well, so it’s essential to ensure proper preparation.
Thickness Matters for Installation Ease: While thickness does not directly affect durability, thicker floors (e.g., 5mm or above) can help cover minor imperfections in the subfloor, making installation easier. If you're installing your own flooring, or if your subfloor is not perfectly level, a thicker floor will help prevent issues during installation.
4. Choosing a Reliable Supplier: Avoid Big-Box Stores
While big-box retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer a wide selection of SPC flooring, they often sell products from a wide range of manufacturers, and not all of them meet the highest standards of quality. Here's why you should avoid buying from these stores unless you're certain of the quality:
Inconsistent Quality: Big-box stores may sell both high-end and low-quality products in the same aisle, making it difficult to determine whether you're getting a good product or not. Many of these stores also sell SPC flooring that might be sourced from different manufacturers, leading to inconsistencies in quality between batches.
Overpricing for Quality: The retail markups in large stores can make their pricing much higher than local dealers or direct-from-importers. At times, you’ll pay more for a product that’s no better than what you can find elsewhere at a lower price.
Lack of Expert Knowledge: Salespeople at big-box stores often lack the specialized knowledge about the intricacies of SPC flooring. In contrast, local dealers often have more experience with the specific products they sell, making them a better resource for guidance.
Instead, consider working with a local dealer who specializes in flooring. They may cost a bit more, but their staff can provide expert advice, and the product quality is generally higher. Furthermore, reputable dealers tend to stock products from reliable manufacturers, which ensures consistency in quality.
5. Price vs. Value: What Should You Pay?
Price plays a significant role in the decision-making process, but it’s important to understand that price does not always reflect quality. Here's what you should keep in mind:
Budget Options: You can find SPC flooring for as low as $1 per square foot in some cases, but this often means sacrificing quality. These ultra-cheap floors are typically thin (less than 5mm total thickness) and may have a poor locking system or low-quality wear layers. While they may be suitable for light residential use, they’re not ideal for high-traffic areas or spaces that require long-term durability.
Quality at Mid-Range Prices: Flooring priced around $2–$4 per square foot generally offers better quality. These products tend to have thicker cores, more robust locking systems, and better wear layers. For residential use, this price range will give you excellent value, especially if you're working with a reputable dealer.
Premium Flooring: Premium SPC floors from well-known brands often cost over $4 per square foot. While they offer the best performance and aesthetics, the price may not always be justified unless you’re installing the flooring in a high-traffic commercial space or you’re looking for a very specific look.
When looking for good value, make sure to factor in installation costs as well. Even if you choose a high-quality SPC product, hiring a good installer is crucial to ensuring the floor is installed properly.
6. Installation Tips: Getting It Right
SPC flooring is relatively easy to install, especially if you go for click-lock systems. However, there are some common installation mistakes to avoid:
Don’t Skip Expansion Gaps: Always leave an expansion gap between the flooring and walls to allow for natural expansion and contraction. Failing to do so can cause the floor to buckle over time.
Proper Click-Locking: Ensure the planks are locked together properly. If the click-lock system isn’t fully engaged, the planks may shift or separate over time.
Inspect Your Flooring Before Installation: Always check the color, shade, and surface for defects before installation. Once the planks are installed, it's difficult to return or exchange them, especially if defects are visible after installation.
7. Conclusion: Choosing the Right SPC Flooring
When picking SPC flooring, prioritize quality over price. While a thicker wear layer might seem like a good option, it’s not the most critical factor for residential spaces. Focus on the milling quality, locking system, and thickness of the core (look for at least 4mm of core thickness). Work with a trusted supplier and invest time in selecting a skilled installer to ensure your floor lasts and performs well.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently choose an SPC flooring solution that meets your needs without overspending. Happy flooring!
