by Stone Plastic Composite Flooring: A Cost-Effective and Durable Flooring Option
What is Stone Plastic Composite Flooring?
Stone plastic composite (SPC) flooring is a new type of flooring material that is designed to mimic the look of natural stone but is actually composed of recycled materials such as plastic, stone and limestone. SPC flooring contains around 70-80% stone and 20-30% non-toxic polyvinyl chloride (PVC), giving it the look and feel of natural stone at a more affordable price point than true stone floors.
Key Benefits of SPC Flooring
Low Maintenance
SPC floors are highly durable and able to withstand wear and tear from daily use with little maintenance required. They do not need waxing or polishing and are scratch, stain and water resistant, making them ideal for busy households with kids and pets. Spills can simply be cleaned up with soap and water.
Affordable Costs
SPC floors are very budget-friendly compared to natural stone, hardwood or laminate floors. The installation costs less than real stone and the material itself is more inexpensive. This makes SPC an attractive option for renovations or new construction on a limited budget.
Wide Variety of Styles
Manufacturers make SPC flooring to resemble a diverse range of natural stones like marble, granite, slate, limestone and more. There are also wood grain patterns available for a more traditional appeal. With so many style and color options, it is easy to find a look that fits any design aesthetic.
Durability and Strength
SPC resists dents, scratches and cracks thanks to the inclusion of stone in its composition. The floors can support heavy furniture and appliance placement without damage. They are highly durable for withstanding wet areas in bathrooms and kitchens and do not swell or fade over time like other materials.
Ease of Installation
Laying SPC flooring is simple for both professional installers and DIY homeowners. Unlike laminate or hardwood options, SPC planks do not require additional underlayment, making the process faster. Their waterproof core allows for floating installation over most existing floor surfaces without the use of glue or nails.
Environmentally Friendly
SPC contains recycled materials, reducing environmental impact compared to virgin plastic, wood or stone production. It does not off-gas harmful chemicals as some other flooring types do. SPC producers work to minimize waste in the manufacturing process as well.
SPC Flooring Installation Options
The two primary methods for installing SPC flooring are floating and glue-down options:
Floating Installation
Floating installation is the most common approach and allows the flooring to be laid loosely over an existing floor surface without permanently attaching it. This provides easier future removability if needed. Special tooling and techniques are used to securely lock the waterproof SPC planks together at the edges and seams for a solid finished look.
Glue-Down Installation
Using an acrylic adhesive, glue-down installation permanently bonds the SPC flooring directly to the subflooring. This is a more permanent solution best used over a clean, flat surface prepared for adhering the planks. Glue-down SPC requires more extensive subfloor preparation but provides superior stability and resistance to shifting, gapping or loosening of joins over time compared to floating installation.
Factors to Consider When Choosing SPC Flooring
When selecting SPC flooring, there are some key factors to take into account such as:
– Thickness – Generally ranges from 2-5mm, with thicker floors providing increased durability and lifetime.
– Wear layer gauge – The top protective layer thickness, higher is better for withstanding wear. Average is 20mil.
– Water resistance rating – Look for floors rated waterproof for bathrooms and kitchens.
– Noise reduction – thicker planks provide more sound dampening between floors.
– Pet friendliness – Scratch, chew and puncture resistance rated products.
– Bevels – Choose square edge for modern look or micro-bevel for natural appearance.
– Acclimation – Allow new flooring to settle in rooms for at least 48 hours before installing.
– Special profiles – Features such as metallic flecks or special embossed surfaces.
– Sustainability – Select brands with formaldehyde-free, recycled content products.
With the numerous positive attributes like affordability, durability, low maintenance and environmental friendliness, stone plastic composite flooring is an appealing contemporary choice for any room in the home that combines authentic style with practical benefits. Its realistic stone and wood looks paired with waterproof construction make it ideal for busy, high-traffic families seeking beautiful, long-lasting floors without the high price tag. With over 12,000 possible design variations available, SPC is an extremely versatile flooring material to enhance any living space.
