Key Questions to Ask When Ordering Waterproof SPC Flooring

We know that choosing the right flooring for your home or business can be confusing, especially with the seemingly endless array of options to choose from. At Nütile we believe our SPC flooring offers the best of all worlds combining durability, longevity, style, and sustainability. To help you make an informed decision about your next choice of flooring we’ve compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions to help you understand everything that you need to know.

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What is ‘SPC’ flooring?

SPC is an acronym that stands for 'Stone Polymer Composite.' A composite simply means it is made of several materials, in this case, a mixture of natural stone and polymers. This winning combination creates a material that is incredibly durable and robust, meaning that SPC flooring has superior resistance to impacts, wear and scratches. The combination of stone and plastic also ensures better insulative properties than other leading flooring ensuring a long-lasting resistance against fluctuations in temperature changes.

SPC flooring comes in planks that mimic the look and texture of real wood and stone and are fitted with in-built underlay and a simple click-and-lock system making them easy to install for professionals and DIYers alike.

What are the main benefits of SPC Flooring over its competitors such as Laminate and Luxury Vinyl Flooring?

SPC flooring has several benefits over other flooring alternatives with its most standout features being its durability, longevity, waterproofing and ease of installation.

With a strong and rigid core made of 70% natural stone and 30% PVC, it can outperform both laminate and LVT (luxury vinyl tiles) when resisting impacts and day-to-day wear and tear.

SPC flooring also comes with an in-built underlay whereas other alternatives require underlay to be fitted separately. This makes it much easier and more convenient to install and can be accomplished by professionals and DIYers alike.
Its natural composition is also waterproof, ensuring no warping of the flooring over time unlike laminate and LVT, and further to this it is insulative making it resistant to temperature changes and feel warmer underfoot than its alternatives.

And finally, the combination of its wonderful properties and simple-to-install system means that under the right conditions, manufacturers can offer a 25-year guarantee on SPC flooring when fitted in residential settings. It's safe to say you can't be much more secure than that.

Is SPC flooring waterproof and suitable for wet rooms?

Absolutely. SPC is made of limestone and PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride), one is a natural stone, which is waterproof, and the other a plastic, which is also waterproof. This ensures your SPC flooring will not warp, swell or be otherwise damaged in high moisture environments, making them suited for rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens. So with SPC flooring, you can be assured that everyday spillages and accidents don't compromise the integrity of your flooring, nor what lies underneath.

Can SPC flooring be installed anywhere, including commercial settings?
Despite its high durability and longevity SPC flooring is not recommended for outdoor spaces, as prolonged exposure to the elements can cause weakness over time and so impede the ability to offer lifetime guarantees.

However, SPC flooring is durable enough to be laid in any room in a residential or commercial setting and happily stand the test of time. With impact resistance like no other, it is suited to high-traffic environments such as offices, retail stores and restaurants. So whether you choose SPC flooring for your home or business you can rest assured you’ll have found the best flooring for the job.

How easy is it to install SPC flooring?

Installing SPC flooring is very straightforward. Methods can vary but Nütile’s SPC flooring uses a click-and-lock system that is simple enough for DIY enthusiasts to fit comfortably on their own. And with its in-built underlay, the process really couldn't be easier.

To cut tiles to size you can use a simple ‘score and snap’ system, scoring with a concave blade and then placing pressure on either side of the score to snap cleanly down the line.

This ease of installation helps to reduce installation costs and time, making it a practical choice for many homeowners.

What kind of maintenance does SPC flooring require?

SPC flooring can be maintained in two simple steps.

Firstly by sweeping away any dirt and loose grit and debris from its surface. Follow this up with mopping using a pH-neutral cleaner and your SPC floor will continue to look as good as new for the duration of its lifetime.

SPC flooring has a protective outer layer to protect against wear and tear, and this layer, combined with its waterproof properties, means that maintenance is as simple and as easy as can be.

How does SPC Flooring compare to Laminate and Luxury Vinyl Flooring in terms of cost?

SPC flooring is a relatively new and innovative flooring option, so incurs a higher initial cost. Yet, whilst laminate and LVT offer a cheaper price point at the start, the longevity and durability of SPC ensures that you will not need to replace or repair anywhere near as often.

So by factoring in maintenance and longevity, SPC flooring pays for itself and ends up being much more cost effective over time.

After all, when installed correctly, SPC flooring can have a guarantee of up to 25 years in a residential setting, and that's 25 years before you have to think about the cost of flooring again.

What design options are available with SPC Flooring?

SPC flooring uses a high-resolution image to mimic the effects of stone and wood, much like laminate or luxury vinyl flooring does. However, unlike its competitors, SPC has a unique advantage. Its composition allows manufacturers to not only lay high-resolution images on its surface but also alter its texture to mimic the look and feel of natural materials such as wood and stone.

Whilst it is possible to have differing images on the surface, the natural wood and stone effect is a popular, classy, and timeless choice and that’s why our Nüstone and Nüforest collections stay true to this timeless aesthetic.

What about sustainability, is SPC flooring good for the environment?

SPC flooring is made from non-toxic materials, so there’s no risk of damaging the environment by releasing harmful VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). It is a stable material that is safe to use and suitable for indoor environments.

Nutile’s SPC flooring has been tested by Intertek sustainability and achieved a Clean Air Gold Certification. The raw materials used in manufacturing are regularly tested to meet the highest quality and health standards and you can be assured it doesn’t contain harmful materials such as benzene, formaldehyde, or phthalate.

Further to this its production utilizes green renewable solar energy as part of the commitment from STS to reaching Carbon Net Zero by , ensuring a brighter future for the planet.

Does SPC Flooring come with a warranty?

Nütile’s SPC flooring comes with a 25-year warranty for residential properties, provided it has been installed adhering to the appropriate guidelines. This extensive warranty is a testament to the products durability and longevity and underscores Nütile’s commitment to offering the highest quality flooring solutions for your peace of mind.

Conclusion

Nütile represents a significant advancement in the flooring industry by combining durability with aesthetic class and environmental responsibility. Its unique composition and state-of-the-art features guarantee it to be a superior choice over traditional flooring such as laminate and luxury vinyl tile.

With its easy maintenance, easy installation, and extensive warranty, SPC flooring is designed to meet the needs of modern homes and businesses from now, on into the foreseeable future.

If you want a flooring solution that combines longevity, style, utility, and sustainability, then look no further than Nütile.

Waterproof vinyl flooring is the latest in luxury vinyl and one of the most durable flooring options around. Lots of people are upgrading their homes with waterproof flooring for its convenience and easy maintenance. If you want to get in on the trend, then you’re in the right place!

In this guide to waterproof vinyl, you’ll learn what makes this flooring waterproof, discover the different types and styles, and even learn how to install and clean it.

Let’s get started!

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What is Waterproof Vinyl Flooring?

Waterproof vinyl flooring is luxury engineered vinyl that is 100% waterproof. Designed with a waterproof, durable core, this vinyl flooring is the highest quality vinyl flooring out there

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Waterproof vinyl flooring comes in two forms with different compositions: WPC or SPC. WPC stands for wood-plastic composite and is made from a mixture of plastic and wood flour. SPC is a stone plastic composite, and it’s composed of plastic and – you guessed it – stone!

WPC has been around for a few years, but SPC is pretty new to the flooring scene. Both options are completely waterproof, thanks to the layered design.

Layers of Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

This flooring typically has four layers of construction: a backing, the core, the luxury vinyl top layer, and the wear layer. 

The Wear Layer

The wear layer protects your floor from scuffs, wear, and tear. The thicker the wear layer, the more traffic your floor can handle. 

When you look at vinyl flooring, it’s more important to look at wear layer thickness rather than plank thickness. The thicker the wear layer (or, the higher the mil number), the more resistance to wear and tear.

Wear Layer Ratings:

• 6 mil (Good): Residential use. 
• 12 mil (Better): Residential – light commercial. 
• 20 mil+ (Best): Commercially rated. High traffic environments.

The Printed Vinyl Layer

This is where you get your gorgeous photo imagery that makes the vinyl look nearly identical to natural materials like stone and wood. Often, waterproof vinyl flooring is the highest quality vinyl on the market. This means you get the most realistic looks that people will swear are real wood/stone!

The Waterproof Core

This is the most important layer! The waterproof core layer is high density and won’t swell or contract no matter what liquid it’s exposed to. There are two options for the core:

• WPC: WPC vinyl cores are thick, resilient, and dense. These cores are manufactured with a foaming agent to give WPC flooring a softer feel underfoot.
• SPC: SPC vinyl cores are thin, rigid, and even denser than WPC cores (they’re made of stone, after all). This flooring doesn't provide as much "give" as WPC. 

The Backing Layer

Many waterproof vinyl flooring options feature a backing layer or an attached underlayment in cork or foam. This serves two purposes: first, you won’t have to buy additional underlayment, and second, it provides softness and sound absorption to your floor.

Types of Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

There are two types of waterproof vinyl: wood-plastic composite vinyl planks (WPC) and stone-plastic composite vinyl planks (SPC). Initially, they might both look the same. However, they’re made with different core materials, and one option might suit you better than the other.

WPC Vinyl Flooring

Waterproof vinyl flooring (also known as WPC vinyl flooring) is 100% waterproof. Its waterproof core is made from a mixture of wood and plastic. 

This core is durable, yet resilient enough to provide a bit of give underfoot, making it perfect for busy homes.

You can install WPC vinyl almost anywhere. It’s typically thick enough to cover imperfect subfloors and you can use it in basements, kitchens, living rooms, and more.

Shop WPC Flooring

SPC Vinyl Flooring

Rigid core vinyl (also known as SPC vinyl flooring) is also 100% waterproof. It features a stone-plastic composite core that is super dense and practically indestructible.

Because rigid core vinyl is so tough, it’s perfect for high-traffic areas and commercial buildings. Just make sure to choose a commercially rated wear layer. Then it’s ready to handle commercial areas. The ultra-dense core is not likely to dent under heavy furniture. However, it doesn’t provide as much warmth or softness as WPC.

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Styles of Waterproof Vinyl

Now it’s time for the fun stuff: looks and style! This is an important factor when it comes to choosing which floor you want. 

Waterproof Vinyl Options 

Waterproof vinyl flooring is available in luxury vinyl planks (LVP), luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), and vinyl sheets. Discover the best option for your use and style.

• Waterproof vinyl plank flooring: Vinyl planks are the most popular type of waterproof vinyl out there. If you’re looking for something that mimics hardwood floors perfectly, you’re probably looking for engineered vinyl plank flooring.
• Waterproof vinyl tile flooring: Luxury vinyl tile is most common in kitchens and bathrooms. Most tile options are made to mimic stone, but you can find a few wood looks as well.
• Sheet vinyl flooring: Vinyl sheets offer a seamless look at an affordable price point. With vinyl roll flooring, you can choose from wood, stone, and a variety of decorative looks.

Vinyl Flooring Looks

Wood and stone looks are classic styles for vinyl. Decorative vinyl flooring is also making a big splash in the interior design world.

• Wood-look vinyl flooring: Get the look of real hardwood flooring, without having to deal with the price or maintenance. Wood-look vinyl most often comes in planks.
• Stone-look vinyl flooring: This style is especially popular in bathrooms and kitchens. Concrete, travertine, and slate are very popular when it comes to stone-look vinyl. You’ll mostly find these looks in tile form.
• Decorative vinyl flooring: Choose from geometric patterns, metallic accents, stain glass looks, and so much more.

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How to Install Waterproof Flooring

You can install all of our waterproof vinyl flooring using an interlocking method. No glue, nails, or any adhesives needed. It’s that easy.

Just follow these steps to install waterproof vinyl planks:

1. Lay the first plank with the tongue side facing the wall.
2. After the initial starter board, press the end seam of the second plank into the end seam of the first plank and then lock them together by laying the plank down. Continue working left to right.
3. You should stagger your planks by using whatever is cut from the end of the first row as the start of your next row – as long as it’s at least 6” long. Install the first plank in the second row by inserting the tongue into the groove of the plank in the first row. This is best done with a low angle of the plank. 
4. Insert the long side seam at a slight angle first. As the top surfaces meet, rotate the plank down into the locked position. Engage the end seam, using a rubber mallet if necessary.
5. Continue installing planks removing any gaps using a tapping block and a scrap of flooring to cover the tapping block. Ensure you don't damage the tongue and groove.
6. Protect all exposed edges by installing wall molding and/or transition strips. Make not to secure the planks to the subfloor in any way.

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How to Clean Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl planks are easy to keep clean and maintain. Maintenance typically includes:

• Vacuum daily or weekly to remove dirt, grit, and dust.
• When mopping, use a damp mop – never a wet mop.
• Clean up spills immediately to prevent damage to the floor.

Here are some other tips to keep your floor looking its best:

• Use felt pads under chairs and furniture legs to prevent scratching of the flooring surface.
• Place doormats at all entrances to prevent tracked-in dirt, rocks, moisture, and other debris.
• Avoid using rubber-backed mats as they can stain the flooring surface over time.

Related Content >> How to Clean Vinyl Flooring

FAQs

Still have questions? Don’t worry! We have the answers you need.

Do I need to buy an underlay for waterproof vinyl?

Most waterproof vinyl floors have a backing already attached, so you don’t need to buy underlay. However, if your flooring doesn’t come with preattached underlayment, you should purchase it. Underlayment provides thermal insulation, covers minor subfloor imperfections, and increases the lifetime of your floor. 

How do I clean waterproof vinyl flooring?

To keep vinyl flooring clean, use a damp mop and a pH-balanced cleanser. When vacuuming, make sure to remove or turn off the beater bar to prevent accidental scratching.

Can waterproof vinyl flooring be scratched by pets?

If you have a pet, the thicker the wear layer the better. Over time, scratches may occur. We recommend keeping nails trimmed as needed.

Where can you install waterproof vinyl flooring?

It can be installed anywhere inside the home. Waterproof vinyl has been used in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and anywhere else in the home. 

Conclusion

There you have it! Now you know all the essential facts about waterproof vinyl flooring, and you know how it can transform your home with durable, low-maintenance style.

With all the knowledge from this guide, you can shop smart. Ready to get started?

For more information, please visit Waterproof SPC Flooring.