Installation and Maintenance of SPC Flooring

SPC Flooring – Product Definition

SPC flooring, also known as Stone Plastic Composite flooring, is a rigid core vinyl flooring system composed of calcium carbonate and polymer resin, engineered to provide high dimensional stability, moisture resistance, and simplified installation for residential and commercial construction projects.

Technical Parameters and Specifications

Proper installation and long-term maintenance of SPC flooring depend on meeting standardized technical specifications suitable for engineering and procurement requirements.

• Total thickness: 4.0 mm, 5.0 mm, 6.0 mm, 7.0 mm

• Wear layer thickness: 0.3 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.7 mm

• Core density: 1,950–2,100 kg/m³

• Dimensional stability: ≤0.10%

• Residual indentation: ≤0.10 mm

• Slip resistance: R9–R10

• Fire rating: Bfl-s1

• Formaldehyde emission: ≤0.01 mg/m³

• Operating temperature range: -20°C to 60°C

Structure and Material Composition

SPC flooring features a multi-layer rigid structure designed for performance stability and ease of installation.

• UV Protective Coating: Enhances scratch resistance and stain resistance

• Wear Layer: Transparent PVC layer protecting surface design

• Decor Film: High-resolution printed wood or stone visuals

• SPC Rigid Core: Limestone-based composite core ensuring rigidity

• Optional IXPE/EVA Underlayment: Sound absorption and subfloor tolerance

Manufacturing Process

Understanding the manufacturing process helps installers and maintenance teams assess material consistency and performance limits.

1. Raw material batching (calcium carbonate and PVC resin)

2. High-temperature extrusion forming SPC core sheets

3. Calendering and thickness calibration

4. Decor film lamination under controlled pressure

5. UV coating application and curing

6. Cooling and stress stabilization

7. Precision cutting and click-lock profiling

8. Quality inspection and packaging

Industry Comparison

Application Scenarios

SPC flooring is widely specified in projects requiring fast installation and minimal maintenance.

• Distributors supplying standardized residential renovations

• EPC contractors for hotels, hospitals, and offices

• Commercial spaces with high moisture exposure

• Retail chains requiring consistent installation quality

• Public infrastructure interior projects

Core Pain Points and Solutions

• Subfloor flatness issues: Rigid core tolerates minor unevenness up to ±3 mm/2 m

• Thermal expansion concerns: SPC’s low expansion coefficient minimizes deformation

• Maintenance labor costs: Simple cleaning reduces long-term operational expenses

• Installation speed: Click-lock systems reduce installation time by up to 40%

Risk Warnings and Mitigation Advice

Although SPC flooring is robust, improper installation and maintenance can compromise performance.

• Avoid prolonged exposure above 60°C to prevent core deformation

• Ensure expansion gaps of 5–8 mm around perimeters

• Use protective pads under heavy furniture

• Avoid abrasive cleaning tools and harsh chemicals

Procurement and Selection Guide

1. Define traffic load and commercial usage intensity

2. Select appropriate wear layer thickness

3. Confirm fire, slip, and emission compliance

4. Evaluate click-lock strength and joint precision

5. Assess underlayment acoustic requirements

6. Request installation manuals and test reports

7. Verify long-term supply consistency

Engineering Application Case

In a 9,500 m² commercial office project, 5.5 mm SPC flooring with a 0.5 mm wear layer was installed over existing ceramic tiles. Floating installation eliminated demolition costs, reduced project duration by 25%, and simplified ongoing maintenance planning.

FAQ

• Q1: Does SPC flooring require acclimation? A: Minimal acclimation of 24 hours is recommended.

• Q2: Can SPC flooring be installed over existing floors? A: Yes, if the subfloor is stable and level.

• Q3: Is adhesive required? A: No, most SPC flooring uses floating click installation.

• Q4: How is SPC flooring cleaned? A: Damp mopping with neutral cleaners.

• Q5: Can SPC flooring be used in wet areas? A: Yes, excluding continuously submerged areas.

• Q6: Is SPC flooring suitable for underfloor heating? A: Yes, within temperature limits.

• Q7: How often does SPC flooring require maintenance? A: Routine cleaning only.

• Q8: Can damaged planks be replaced? A: Yes, individual planks can be removed.

• Q9: Does SPC flooring expand significantly? A: Expansion is minimal compared to WPC or laminate.

• Q10: What is the expected service life? A: Typically 15–25 years in commercial use.

Call to Action

For project-specific installation guidelines, maintenance manuals, technical documentation, or SPC flooring samples, professional buyers may submit a formal request for quotation or technical consultation.

E-E-A-T Author Credentials

This article is prepared by a building materials technical advisor with extensive experience in rigid core flooring systems, supporting international EPC projects, distributors, and commercial construction specifications.