The Evolution of Wood Flooring

Not all flooring is created equal, and there is no one best quality material. The right flooring for you depends on your budget, the features you prioritize, the overall look, and where you plan to install it. Here, we'll introduce SPC flooring so you can make an informed decision about whether it's right for your project.

 

The Evolution of Wood Flooring

Before we dive in, it's helpful to understand a brief history of wood flooring and the driving factors behind material innovation. Real hardwood flooring is the real deal and remains very popular. It can be easily sanded and refinished, giving it a long life. However, it is expensive to purchase, install and maintain, and requires a certain amount of moisture to prevent cracking. The demand for wood as a natural resource is also very high.

 

The industry demanded lower maintenance, less expensive solid hardwood flooring, so engineered hardwood was born. The solution helped reduce the maintenance and upkeep of the flooring, but it was still quite expensive for the consumer.

 

Then came laminate flooring - an image layer of wood particles mixed on top to mimic the look of hardwood. As high-definition printing and embossing technologies continue to improve the appearance of laminate, the biggest problem is its tendency to swell with moisture.

 

The trend for faux wood tile is growing as tile captures the desire for faux wood flooring. Tile is great because it's very durable and waterproof, but it's cold to the touch and the hard surface can be tough on the feet. Tile also has a more complex installation that requires grout and grouting.

 

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is the next big thing. LVT is made of vinyl to mimic wood-like flooring and is waterproof, which solves the problem of laminate. It's cheaper to install with a floating floor click system or glue option, but can shrink or buckle from heat and cold.

 

This leads us to the latest innovation in faux wood flooring - SPC.

What is SPC flooring?

SPC flooring stands for Stone Plastic Composite and is the latest innovation in the flooring world. It is a premium LVT that is 100% waterproof and more stable than traditional LVT materials.

 

The core of SPC multilayer flooring is made from a combination of stone dust and pvc plastic, a combination that produces a very durable, dent-resistant material that does not expand and contract with environmental changes.

 

One of the biggest advantages of SPC is that it is typically installed as a click-through system, which is significantly faster than traditional tile - making it a favorite of DIY homeowners. No glue or nails are required for installation, just cut to size and snap into place. While it lacks some durability compared to traditional tile, the speed of installation significantly reduces labor costs, making it a great flooring option.

 

What are the different layers that make up SPC flooring?

Although its range depends on the manufacturer, SPC planks are usually made up of the following layers.

UV layer - ensures stain and water resistance and prevents fading.

Abrasion-resistant layer - restores the original color and embossing and protects it from wear and tear.

Decorative layer - this is the printed wood grain pattern.

SPC core - a durable hardboard core that will not expand and contract with changes in temperature or humidity

Underlayment - This may be a cork or foam backing material that provides some cushioning for underfoot comfort.