How to Choose the Right Thickness for SPC Flooring

SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance. One crucial aspect to consider when selecting SPC flooring is its thickness, which can significantly impact performance, comfort, and longevity. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right thickness for your SPC flooring.

Understanding SPC Flooring Thickness

SPC flooring typically consists of several layers: a UV coating, a wear layer, a printed design layer, a rigid core layer, and an underlayment. The overall thickness of SPC flooring is measured in millimeters (mm) and usually ranges from 3.2mm to 7mm or more.

Common Thicknesses and Their Applications

3.2mm to 4mm: Suitable for low-traffic areas such as bedrooms and closets. These thinner options are budget-friendly and adequate for areas where foot traffic is minimal.

5mm to 6.5mm: Ideal for medium to high-traffic areas like living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. This range offers a good balance between durability and comfort.

7mm and above: Best for commercial spaces or extremely high-traffic residential areas. The extra thickness provides superior durability and sound insulation.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Thickness

1. Transportation Costs

Thicker SPC flooring is generally heavier, which can increase transportation costs. If budget is a concern, consider balancing the benefits of thicker planks with the additional shipping expenses. For large projects, the weight difference can significantly impact the overall cost.

2. Locking Systems

Click-Lock Systems: Thicker SPC planks often feature more robust click-lock systems, making installation easier and ensuring a more secure fit. Thinner planks (3.2mm to 4mm) may have less durable locking mechanisms, which could lead to issues with plank separation or movement over time.

Glue-Down Installation: For glue-down installations, the thickness of the SPC flooring is less critical, but a thicker wear layer is still beneficial for durability. This method provides a stable, permanent installation regardless of plank thickness.

Additional Considerations

1. Foot Traffic and Usage

High-Traffic Areas: Choose thicker SPC flooring (5mm to 7mm or more) with a thicker wear layer (20 mils or more) to ensure better durability and longer lifespan.

Low-Traffic Areas: In low-traffic areas, thinner SPC flooring (3.2mm to 4mm) may suffice, with a thinner wear layer (12 mils to 20 mils) being adequate.

2. Subfloor Condition

Uneven Subfloors: Thicker SPC flooring can better accommodate minor imperfections in the subfloor, providing a smoother and more even surface.

Smooth Subfloors: If the subfloor is in good condition, thinner SPC flooring can be used without compromising stability or comfort.

3. Comfort and Sound Insulation

Comfort Underfoot: Thicker SPC flooring (5mm or more) provides a more cushioned feel, making it more comfortable to walk on.

Sound Insulation: Thicker flooring generally offers better sound insulation, important in multi-story homes or apartments to reduce noise transmission.

Conclusion

Choosing the right thickness for SPC flooring involves considering factors such as common thicknesses, transportation costs, locking systems, specific room needs, subfloor condition, comfort, and sound insulation. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select the perfect SPC flooring that will provide beauty, durability, and comfort for years to come.