What is SPC flooring?

What Is SPC Flooring? – Product Definition

SPC flooring, short for Stone Plastic Composite flooring, is a rigid core resilient flooring system manufactured from a high-density blend of calcium carbonate and PVC, engineered to provide superior dimensional stability, water resistance, and load-bearing performance for residential and commercial flooring applications.

Technical Parameters and Specifications

SPC flooring performance is defined by standardized mechanical, physical, and environmental indicators used by engineers and procurement professionals.

• Total thickness: 3.5 mm, 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: 1,900–2,100 kg/m³

• Dimensional stability: ≤0.10%

• Indentation resistance: ≤0.05 mm

• Slip resistance: R9–R11

• Sound reduction (with underlayment): 18–22 dB

• Fire rating: Bfl-s1

• Formaldehyde emission: Not detected (E0 compliant)

• Water absorption: ≤0.05%

Structure and Material Composition

SPC flooring adopts a multi-layer engineered structure, each layer designed to perform a specific functional role.

• UV Coating Layer: Enhances surface scratch resistance and stain protection

• Wear Layer: Transparent PVC layer providing abrasion resistance

• Decor Film: High-definition printed film simulating wood or stone textures

• Rigid SPC Core: High-density composite of calcium carbonate and PVC resin

• Underlayment (Optional): IXPE or EVA foam for acoustic insulation and comfort

Manufacturing Process

SPC flooring is produced through a highly controlled industrial process ensuring uniform quality and performance consistency.

1. Raw material formulation and batching

2. High-temperature extrusion of SPC core sheets

3. Cooling and dimensional stabilization

4. Decor film lamination under pressure

5. Wear layer fusion and UV surface curing

6. Precision cutting and edge profiling

7. Click-lock system machining

8. Final inspection, testing, and packaging

Industry Comparison

Application Scenarios

SPC flooring is widely specified by professional users where performance reliability and installation efficiency are critical.

• Distributors and importers supplying rigid core flooring markets

• EPC contractors for offices, hospitals, and retail spaces

• Residential developers requiring waterproof flooring systems

• Hotel and hospitality renovation projects

• Public buildings with high pedestrian traffic

Core Pain Points and Solutions

• Uneven subfloors: Rigid SPC core bridges minor substrate imperfections

• Moisture exposure: SPC flooring remains dimensionally stable when wet

• High foot traffic: Thick wear layers improve abrasion resistance

• Installation downtime: Floating click systems reduce labor and project time

Risk Warnings and Mitigation Advice

Incorrect installation or product selection can compromise SPC flooring performance.

• Insufficient expansion gaps may cause buckling

• Low-quality core formulations reduce impact resistance

• Improper locking systems lead to joint separation

• Non-certified underlayments affect acoustic performance

Procurement and Selection Guide

1. Define usage environment and load requirements

2. Select appropriate total thickness and wear layer

3. Confirm SPC core density and formulation

4. Check fire and emission compliance standards

5. Evaluate locking system design and tolerance

6. Assess underlayment acoustic requirements

7. Request technical datasheets and physical samples

Engineering Case Application

A healthcare facility renovation project installed 5.5 mm SPC flooring with a 0.5 mm wear layer across 9,500 m². The rigid core allowed installation over existing ceramic tiles, reducing demolition costs while maintaining long-term dimensional stability under heavy equipment traffic.

FAQ

• Q1: Is SPC flooring fully waterproof? A: Yes, the core and surface are water resistant.

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

• Q3: Is SPC suitable for commercial use? A: Yes, with appropriate wear layer selection.

• Q4: Does SPC flooring expand with temperature? A: Minimal expansion compared to other floors.

• Q5: Is underlayment required? A: Recommended for acoustics and comfort.

• Q6: Can SPC flooring be repaired? A: Individual planks can be replaced.

• Q7: Is SPC flooring slip resistant? A: Yes, when compliant with R9–R11 ratings.

• Q8: What is the expected service life? A: 15–25 years depending on usage.

• Q9: Is SPC flooring environmentally compliant? A: Yes, when certified to E0 standards.

• Q10: Can SPC be used with underfloor heating? A: Yes, within specified temperature limits.

Call to Action

For procurement inquiries, technical documentation, engineering samples, or project-specific SPC flooring recommendations, professionals are encouraged to submit a formal request for evaluation and quotation.

E-E-A-T Author Credentials

This article is prepared by a flooring materials engineering consultant with more than 10 years of experience in SPC and resilient flooring systems, supporting international B2B projects, EPC specifications, and supply chain quality management.