Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-04-01 Origin: Site
SPC click flooring is becoming a top choice for homeowners due to its durability and easy installation. With its cost-effective and attractive design, it’s a great option for various spaces.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of installing SPC click flooring. From preparing your subfloor to the final touches, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite, a type of flooring made from a mixture of limestone and PVC. It is designed to be strong, durable, and waterproof, making it ideal for both residential and commercial use.
SPC click flooring is unique compared to laminate, vinyl, and hardwood flooring due to its construction and installation method. Unlike laminate, which has a wood-based core, SPC has a stone-plastic composite core, providing extra durability. Vinyl is flexible, but SPC is more rigid and stable. Hardwood floors require regular maintenance, while SPC is low-maintenance and highly resistant to wear.
Waterproof: SPC click flooring is completely waterproof, making it perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
Durable: Its stone-based core makes it resistant to dents and scratches, standing up well to high traffic.
Eco-friendly: SPC is made from sustainable materials, making it a greener choice for flooring.
Easy Maintenance: Unlike hardwood floors, which need refinishing, SPC is simple to clean with a regular sweeping or mopping.
A clean, dry, and level subfloor is essential for a successful SPC click flooring installation. If your subfloor is uneven, the planks won’t sit properly, causing them to buckle over time.
Check for cracks: Fill any gaps or cracks with a cement-based patch to ensure a smooth surface.
Remove any protruding nails or screws: These can interfere with the click-lock mechanism, so be sure to nail down any loose areas.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools to make the job easier:
SPC cutting knife: For trimming the planks to fit.
Measuring tape and pencil: To measure and mark your cuts accurately.
Bolster chisel: Useful for fine adjustments and fitting.
Scissors: To cut underlayment or excess material.
Hammer and tapping block: To lock the planks together securely without damage.
SPC planks need time to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity before installation.
Store the planks in the room: Keep them flat for at least 48 hours to avoid any expansion or contraction after installation.
Temperature and humidity: Ensure the room temperature is between 18°C and 27°C for the best results. Humidity should be stable as well.
Make the installation process smoother by preparing your space ahead of time:
Move all furniture: Clear the area to create a safe, open workspace.
Remove trim and skirting boards: This will allow the planks to fit neatly along the edges.
Leave space for expansion: Ensure there’s at least a 4mm gap around walls and other obstacles to allow for natural floor expansion.
Begin by placing the first row of planks along the wall, ensuring the tongue side faces the wall. This setup helps align the planks and ensures a secure fit when locking them in place.
Use the 2G click system to snap the planks together. This system ensures a firm and secure lock.
Maintain at least a 4mm expansion gap between the planks and walls. This space allows for natural expansion.
After placing the first row, it’s time to click the planks together.
Angle the planks at 30 degrees to connect them. This angle makes locking the planks easier.
Gently tap the edges with a tapping block to snap them into place, ensuring a tight connection.
Continue laying the next rows, making sure to stagger the seams by at least 20-30 cm. This staggered pattern adds strength and visual appeal.
As you move towards the edges of the room, you'll need to cut planks to fit.
Use an SPC cutting knife to trim the planks to the required size. Always measure carefully before cutting to avoid mistakes.
Save leftover pieces from each row. These can be used to start the next row, ensuring minimal waste and a consistent look.
Once all planks are installed, it's time to finish the edges.
Install skirting boards or mouldings around the room to cover the expansion gaps and give the floor a polished look.
Seal any gaps around the edges with silicone or matching trim to prevent dust and moisture from getting under the planks.
Ensure the surface is smooth and firm by lightly tapping on any loose planks to ensure they are properly locked.
When installing SPC click flooring, avoiding these common mistakes will ensure a smoother, more durable result.
Using a Hammer Instead of a Tapping Block
Never use a hammer directly on the planks. This can damage the click-lock system. Instead, use a tapping block to gently tap the planks into place.
Forgetting the Expansion Gap
Leaving no space around the edges can cause the flooring to buckle as it expands. Always maintain at least a 4mm gap between the planks and walls to allow for natural expansion.
Misaligning Seams
It’s crucial to stagger the seams of the planks by at least 20-30 cm. Misaligned seams can create a weak spot in the floor and affect the visual appeal.
Installing on an Uneven or Unprepared Subfloor
An uneven subfloor can lead to gaps, creaking, or instability. Make sure your subfloor is smooth, clean, and level before starting the installation.
Not Acclimatizing the Planks
If you skip the acclimatization step, the planks might expand or contract after installation. Let them sit in the room for 48 hours before installation to adjust to the temperature and humidity.
To keep your SPC click flooring looking great, regular cleaning is essential.
Sweeping and Mopping: Use a soft broom or vacuum to remove dust and dirt. Mop with a mild detergent and warm water to maintain the floor’s shine. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Chemicals like bleach or ammonia can strip the finish. Stick to cleaning solutions made for SPC or vinyl floors to protect the surface.
Proper care can extend the life of your SPC flooring.
Use Furniture Pads: Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents. This is especially important in high-traffic areas.
Protect From Excessive Moisture: While SPC is waterproof, standing water can still cause issues. Wipe up spills quickly and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.
Accidents happen, but repairs are easy.
Replace Damaged Planks: If a plank becomes damaged, you don’t have to replace the entire floor. Simply remove the damaged plank by unlocking it from the surrounding planks. Then, insert a new one and lock it into place, making the repair quick and seamless.
SPC click flooring is easy to install and offers long-term durability. Its waterproof, low-maintenance design makes it a great choice for any room.
Now that you know how simple it is to install, why not give it a try? Transform your space with SPC flooring today!
