SPC Vinyl Floor
SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) vinyl floor is an engineered luxury vinyl that combines limestone and stabilizers to create an extremely durable core. An SPC vinyl floor is still 100% waterproof, but with added stability and dent resistance to the structure of the plank.
SPC Vinyl Flooring Composition
Each vinyl floor plank normally consists of 5 core components:
Underlayment
IXPE and EVA foam are commonly used material for the base layer. This environmentally friendly fire-retardant base layer also gives a softer feel of the floor, absorbing and reflecting any transmitted sound. Besides mitigating subfloor imperfections, it also acts as a barrier to odour and stains from mould and mildew.
Core
The SPC core is formed by combining limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride and stabilizers to create a dimensionally rigid, stable and waterproof core.
Decorative Layer
Various decorative films are machine-pressed onto the middle core layer.
Wear Layer
With the decorative layer in place, a protective layer (0.3mm to 0.8mm) is applied and send back to the oven. Where textured surfaces are required, a chemical embossing process is applied.
UV Coating
This is a surface treatment that cures by UV radiation and primarily protects the underlying material from fading in sunlight at areas near windows. It is also a process that allows for adjusting the gloss of the floor surface. Some coatings contain ceramic components to provide added scratch resistant.
Is SPC vinyl flooring the best option for your home?
Let’s look into the benefits of SPC vinyl flooring.
Affordability
SPC vinyl flooring is now available at prices comparable to / or lower than tiles.
With flooring potentially being a big purchase item during home improvement, it is notable to see that SPC vinyl installation is fast and hassle free, without the need for other preparatory works, thus reducing labour costs.
Comfortable Aesthetics
The introduction of SPC vinyl floors has made available choices from the looks of hardwood, cement to rich stones. This allows for much more creativity to blend into interior themes. There is no 'cold' feel of the floor during temperature changes, and besides, it is a soft, flexible material that is perfect for kids to play.
Resilience
The best feature of SPC vinyl flooring is its resilience. The material is one of the most durable, and if installed properly, can last for decades. Under normal usage, stains have no way with the material for the protective layer prevents spills from leaving marks on the flooring. In any case of damage, replacing SPC vinyl floor is relatively easy compared to hardwood flooring or tiles.
Stability
With its stone core construction, SPC vinyl floor is more stable in environments with temperature or humidity fluctuations, e.g. large offices / retail showrooms with continuous aircon use.
Waterproof
Being 100% waterproof, this means it can be safely installed in kitchens, laundry rooms and restaurants.
Easy Maintenance
SPC vinyl flooring is low in maintenance. With the extra fine joint lines of SPC vinyl flooring, you certainly will not need to contend with grout line dirt and grime. Spilled water and rain splash is also not a problem for SPC vinyl floors as they are water resistant and anti-slip as well.
Cleaning & Maintaining Vinyl Floors
With regular care and cleaning, vinyl floors can withstand daily usage and will stay looking good for years. Here are some tips to keep your floors looking new year after year.
Sweep Regularly
Whether you sweep or vacuum, it is good practice to get rid of dust, dirt and other debris as these can cause scratches on the floor. The faster they are removed, the less wear and tear you will see. If you are using a vacuum, please remember not to use the beater bar when cleaning the vinyl floor.
Wash Floors Regularly
It is recommended to clean the vinyl floors with a micro-fibre wet mop using a PH neutral cleaning agent. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives. Avoid products such as waxes, lotions or conditioners as these can leave a film residue.
Spot Clean
Even though vinyl floors are water resistant and has a tough wear layer, staining and discolouration can still occur with acidic liquids and chemicals. In the event of any such occurrence, clean the surface immediately with a PH neutral cleaning agent.
Prevent Scratches
To prevent scuffs and scrapes, do follow these suggestions.
- Use felt or rubber pads for all appliances and furniture.
- Use entry door mats to prevent dirt from hitting the floor.
- Never scrub the floors and use microfibre cloth for cleaning.