Rigid core SPC flooring, also known as luxury vinyl plank flooring, has become an increasingly popular flooring option for homeowners in recent years. SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite, which refers to the materials used to construct the flooring. Rigid core SPC is designed to be durable, waterproof, and easy to install, making it a practical and stylish flooring choice for any room in the house. In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes up rigid core SPC flooring, its benefits and drawbacks, how it compares to other types of flooring, costs, and more. Armed with this information, you will be equipped to decide if rigid core SPC is the right flooring option for your next remodel or new construction project.
Page Contents
- 1 What is SPC Flooring Made Of?
- 2 Benefits of Rigid Core SPC Flooring
- 3 Potential Drawbacks of SPC Flooring
- 4 How Does SPC Compare to Other Flooring Types?
- 5 Cost of Rigid Core SPC Flooring
- 6 Top Brands of Rigid Core SPC Flooring
- 7 Pros & Cons of Rigid Core SPC Flooring
- 8 Things to Consider Before Buying
- 9 Conclusion
What is SPC Flooring Made Of?
Rigid core SPC flooring consists of four basic layers fused together under high heat and pressure:
Core Layer
This bottom layer forms the base and is made from limestone powder combined with high-density polyurethane resins. This creates a rigid, waterproof core that resists swelling and warping. The core provides stability and structure to support the rest of the layers.
Print Layer
On top of the core is a printed decorative layer that provides the visible color, grain, and texture. Using photographic technology, the print layer can mimic the look of natural materials like wood and stone. Different patterns and grains are available to match your décor.
Clear Protective Layer
Over the print layer is a transparent wear layer that protects the floor’s design from fading, stains, and scratches. This layer is typically 20 mil thick for residential applications. The thicker the wear layer, the more durable the floor.
Bottom Grip Layer
The bottom has a grip layer to reduce slippage and sound transmission when walked on. This gives the planks better adhesion to the subfloor.
Benefits of Rigid Core SPC Flooring
There are several reasons why rigid core SPC has gained popularity for homeowners:
Waterproof
The limestone and polyurethane core is highly water-resistant, making SPC a great option for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. Even if water sits on the floor’s surface for a while, it will not seep through or damage the core like other floorings can.
Durable and Scratch Resistant
Thanks to the rigid core and thick wear layer, SPC flooring stands up well to heavy foot traffic, kids, pets, and daily activities without showing signs of wear. The added scratch protection also keeps the floor looking new for longer compared to alternatives like laminate.
Stability
The rigid core prevents the planks from developing hollow spots, buckling, or shrinking over time. This offers better structural integrity and stability versus other “floating” floor systems.
Easy Installation
SPC flooring uses a click-lock system that allows the planks to be installed over most existing hard surface flooring without any glue or nails required. Homeowners can usually install SPC flooring themselves as a DIY project, keeping installation costs low.
Quiet
With sound absorbing backings, SPC helps reduce noise transfer and in-room echo for a quieter home environment.
Wide Range of Looks
From natural wood visuals to slate, limestone, and concrete patterns, SPC floors are available in styles that mimic other flooring at a lower cost. There are many color and grain variations to match any décor.
Potential Drawbacks of SPC Flooring
Despite the many benefits, there are a few potential disadvantages to consider with rigid core SPC flooring:
Dents
While resistant to scratches, SPC can be prone to denting from heavy dropped objects on its surface. Care must be taken to avoid dents and maintain the floor’s appearance.
Hollow Sound
SPC floors generally have a slightly more hollow, plastic-like sound when walked on compared to natural hardwoods, especially on concrete subfloors. This can be mitigated with proper underlayments.
Difficult Repairs
Because the layers are fused together so tightly, SPC planks can be difficult to repair if damaged. Minor damage often requires replacing the entire plank.
Not for Exterior Use
SPC flooring is intended for indoor, climate controlled environments only. It cannot be exposed to prolonged direct sunlight or moisture from outdoor elements.
Prone to Scratches from Asphalt and Bitumen
Chemicals from asphalt driveways or bitumen roofing materials can transfer onto shoe soles and potentially discolor or scratch SPC flooring. Care should be taken to remove shoes inside the home.
How Does SPC Compare to Other Flooring Types?
Here is how rigid core SPC flooring stacks up against some other common residential flooring options:
vs. Laminate
| SPC Flooring | Laminate Flooring |
|---|---|
| Waterproof core | Core can swell when wet |
| More scratch resistant wear layer | Prone to scratching and wear over time |
| Rigid structure, no hollow spots | Floating floor, susceptible to buckling |
| No acclimation time needed | Must acclimate to room climate first |
vs. Vinyl Sheet Flooring
| SPC Flooring | Vinyl Sheet Flooring |
|---|---|
| Rigid, stable planks | Flexible sheets prone to indentations |
| Easier DIY installation | Professional installation recommended |
| Wide range of realistic visuals | Limited designs |
| Replace planks individually if damaged | Difficult spot repairs on sheet |
vs. Luxury Vinyl Tile
| SPC Flooring | Luxury Vinyl Tile |
|---|---|
| Stone plastic composite core | PVC core |
| Completely waterproof | Susceptible to moisture damage at seams |
| 20+ mil wear layer | 10 mil wear layer |
| Rigid, no flexing or compression | Some flexing under furniture |
vs. Engineered Hardwood
| SPC Flooring | Engineered Hardwood |
|---|---|
| 100% waterproof | Still susceptible to moisture damage |
| Lower maintenance, no refinishing needed | Eventual sanding and refinishing required |
| Lower material and installation cost | Higher upfront investment |
| Wide variety of wood looks | Limited wood species and grains |
Cost of Rigid Core SPC Flooring
Here are some typical price ranges for rigid core SPC flooring installed in the home:
– Material per Square Foot: $2 – $8
– Professional Installation per Square Foot: $3 – $7
– DIY Installation Total Project Cost for 500 sq.ft: $1000 – $2500
The product-only cost for SPC flooring planks ranges from about $2 per square foot up to $8 per square foot for higher-end options with thicker wear layers and enhanced visuals. Professional installation typically adds $3 to $7 per square foot in additional labor costs if you do not install it yourself. The total installed cost for a 500 square foot living space would be around $1000 – $2500 for mid-range SPC flooring installed by the homeowner.
Top Brands of Rigid Core SPC Flooring
Some of the top manufacturers and brands of rigid core SPC flooring include:
- Shaw Floorte – COREtec Plus, COREtec Pro
- Mohawk – SolidTech
- USFloors – COREtec
- Congoleum – Triversa
- Karndean – Korlok
- Home Decorators Collection
- TrafficMaster – Rigid Core Luxe
- Pergo – Extreme
Many homeowners choose to go with one of these major brands they recognize and trust for quality SPC flooring backed by warranties. However, there are also less widely known brands offering rigid core SPC at lower price points for budget buyers.
Pros & Cons of Rigid Core SPC Flooring
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Completely waterproof | Prone to denting |
| Durable and scratch resistant | Hollow plastic sound |
| Stable, no expansion or contraction | Difficult for spot repairs |
| Easy DIY installation | Not suitable for exterior use |
| Quieter underfoot | Vulnerable to asphalt/bitumen damage |
| Realistic wood and stone looks |
Things to Consider Before Buying
If you are thinking about purchasing rigid core SPC flooring, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Where will it be installed? SPC works well in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms – areas prone to spills and moisture.
- What subfloor type do you have? SPC can go over concrete, plywood, OSB, and many existing hard surface floors.
- What style and color do you want? Consider samples that match your interior design tastes.
- How much traffic and wear will it need to withstand? Choose a thicker mil wear layer for higher traffic areas.
- Is sound transmission a concern? Consider a quality underlayment for sound absorption.
- Does an ease of installation or DIY appeal to you? SPC is beginner-friendly.
- What is your total budget for materials plus professional or DIY installation?
Keeping these factors in mind will help narrow your SPC flooring options.
Conclusion
Rigid core SPC flooring provides the perfect combination of waterproof durability, easy maintenance, and stylish design to enhance any home. SPC outperforms laminate and sheet vinyl with its rigid plank stability, realistic visuals, and scratch resistance. The DIY-friendly click lock installation allows homeowners to refresh their floors quickly without the mess or hassles of gluing down other products. While no flooring is perfect, SPC comes closest to offering the modern benefits and looks today’s homeowners demand. If you are considering new floors, rigid core SPC should be strongly considered as a resilient, attractive option that will last for years to come.