SPC Flooring With Attached Underlayment vs Without

Product Definition

SPC flooring with attached underlayment vs without refers to two structural configurations of Stone Plastic Composite rigid core flooring: one integrated with factory-laminated acoustic backing, and one supplied as a bare rigid plank requiring separate underlayment installation. The difference directly impacts acoustic rating, installation efficiency, cost structure, and long-term floor system stability.

Technical Parameters and Specifications

When evaluating spc flooring with attached underlayment vs without, procurement decisions should be based on measurable technical data rather than marketing claims. Below are industry-accepted parameter ranges for commercial-grade SPC flooring:

• Total thickness: 4.0mm–8.0mm

• Wear layer thickness: 0.3mm (residential) / 0.5mm–0.7mm (commercial)

• Core density: 1900–2100 kg/m³

• Attached underlayment thickness (if included): 1.0mm–1.5mm IXPE or EVA

• Impact sound reduction (IIC improvement): 15–20 dB with attached backing

• Dimensional stability: ≤0.1% (EN ISO 23999)

• Fire rating: Bfl-s1 (EN 13501-1 typical commercial grade)

• Locking system: Unilin / Valinge click or equivalent

In spc flooring with attached underlayment vs without, the acoustic and installation performance are the primary technical differentiators.

Structure and Material Composition

1. SPC Flooring Without Attached Underlayment

• UV Coating Layer

• Wear Layer (PVC transparent layer)

• Decor Film (printed layer)

• SPC Rigid Core (PVC + CaCO₃ composite)

• Optional separate loose underlayment installed on-site

2. SPC Flooring With Attached Underlayment

• UV Coating Layer

• Wear Layer

• Decor Film

• SPC Rigid Core

• Factory-laminated IXPE/EVA acoustic pad

In spc flooring with attached underlayment vs without, the laminated acoustic pad is bonded during production under controlled pressure and temperature, improving uniformity compared to loose-laid foam.

Manufacturing Process

Understanding production differences is critical when comparing spc flooring with attached underlayment vs without.

Step 1: Raw Material Mixing

PVC resin, calcium carbonate, stabilizers, and additives are mixed via high-speed hot-cold mixer.

Step 2: Extrusion

Conical twin-screw extruder forms SPC rigid core sheets. Thickness tolerance controlled within ±0.05mm.

Step 3: Calendering & Lamination

Decor film and wear layer laminated through multi-roller hot press system.

Step 4: Cooling & UV Coating

Surface treated with UV-curable coating lines.

Step 5: Slotting (Click System)

CNC profiling machines cut precision locking edges.

Step 6 (Only for Attached Version): Acoustic Pad Lamination

IXPE sheet laminated using PUR hot-melt adhesive under controlled pressure.

This additional step differentiates spc flooring with attached underlayment vs without in terms of cost and cycle time.

Industry Comparison

Application Scenarios

When selecting spc flooring with attached underlayment vs without, application context matters:

• Distributors: Attached version simplifies SKU offering and reduces installation complaints.

• EPC Contractors: Attached backing accelerates large-scale apartment or hotel installation.

• Developers: Higher acoustic compliance for multi-story residential projects.

• Importers: Separate underlayment option may reduce freight cost.

Core Pain Points and Solutions

1. Acoustic Compliance Risk

Solution: Choose factory-attached IXPE with certified IIC/STC reports.

2. Uneven Subfloor Transmission

Solution: Ensure rigid core thickness ≥5mm for commercial traffic.

3. Installation Labor Cost

Solution: Integrated underlayment reduces one installation step.

4. Delamination Concern

Solution: Verify adhesive type (PUR recommended) and peel strength testing.

Risk Warnings and Mitigation

• Avoid low-density core (<1800 kg/m³).

• Request fire classification certificates for commercial buildings.

• Check click locking tolerance precision.

• Confirm compatibility with underfloor heating systems.

Failure to evaluate these factors may lead to performance gaps in spc flooring with attached underlayment vs without selection.

Procurement and Selection Guide

1. Define project acoustic requirements (IIC/STC target).

2. Specify total thickness and wear layer grade.

3. Evaluate installation labor cost comparison.

4. Request third-party testing reports.

5. Assess packaging and container loading plan.

6. Inspect sample click-lock precision.

7. Verify adhesive bonding strength (attached type).

Engineering Case Study

Project: 18-floor residential building (12,000 m² flooring area). Requirement: Fast installation + acoustic compliance ≥17 dB impact reduction. Solution: 6.5mm SPC with 1.5mm IXPE attached backing. Outcome: Installation efficiency improved by 22%, reduced labor crew by one team, passed acoustic inspection without additional floor mat system.

This case highlights practical differences in spc flooring with attached underlayment vs without for high-rise residential EPC projects.

FAQ

• Q1: Does attached underlayment replace separate foam? A: Yes, in most floating installations.

• Q2: Is attached version more expensive? A: Unit price is higher but may reduce labor cost.

• Q3: Which is better for export? A: Depends on market acoustic regulation.

• Q4: Does it affect floor height? A: Yes, adds 1–1.5mm.

• Q5: Can attached pad detach? A: If bonding quality is poor.

• Q6: Is moisture resistance affected? A: No, SPC core remains waterproof.

• Q7: Suitable for commercial traffic? A: Yes, if wear layer ≥0.5mm.

• Q8: Compatible with radiant heating? A: Yes, check temperature limit ≤27°C.

• Q9: Does it reduce hollow sound? A: Yes, improves footfall acoustics.

• Q10: Is separate underlayment more flexible? A: It allows customized acoustic performance.

Request Technical Support or Quotation

For detailed comparison sheets, third-party acoustic test reports, container loading plans, or project-specific recommendations regarding spc flooring with attached underlayment vs without, please contact our technical team for formal quotation and engineering documentation.

E-E-A-T Author Credentials

This article is prepared by a flooring industry technical consultant with over 10 years of experience in SPC production engineering, international procurement support, and commercial project specification advisory. All specifications align with current international manufacturing practices and commercial construction standards.