Long overlooked by renovators, vinyl flooring has recently made a strong comeback in the form of SPC—short for stone plastic composite. SPC flooring is comfortable, long lasting, affordable and easy to clean.
That being said, all flooring needs maintenance to prevent stains and water damage. It’s better to be proactive and take certain precautions to keep your floor looking good for years to come. In this article, you’ll learn the easiest way to clean your SPC vinyl flooring, plus a few simple steps you can take to prevent damage.
What are SPC floors made of?
SPC vinyl flooring is made up of four layers:
- Wear layer: a long lasting transparent topcoat that protects the floor from scratches
- Vinyl layer: printed with a decorative pattern
- SPC core: a dense, waterproof layer of stone plastic composite
- Base layer: a built in membrane that provides soundproofing and shock absorption
The core is usually made from a blend of natural limestone and provides a stable base that makes installation easy on virtually any surface.
If you want to learn more about SPC flooring, read our article.
Maintenance tips
SPC vinyl flooring requires minimal maintenance. That’s one reason we love it so much!
2. Wipe with a damp mop
Although SPC floors are quite tough and water resistant, we recommend not using too much liquid when mopping. This will prevent mould from growing in the joints and under the planks.
Of course, it’s important to use the right tool for the job. Choose a mop with an easy to wring fabric head for your SPC flooring. You can also use a clean microfibre cloth or sponge to remove any excess water.
For best results, use only pH neutral products recommended by the flooring manufacturer. Don’t mop with detergents containing abrasives or ammonia, and never use steam cleaners, as they can weaken the floor’s layered structure over time. When vacuuming, don’t use hard plastic attachments without padding. This can cause discolouration and scuffing.
Pro tip: Distilled water makes an excellent natural cleaner. It’s an environmentally and budget friendly solution. Always mop with the grain of the planks to prevent streaking.
3. Remove stains as needed
No matter how well you protect your floors, stray pen marks and drops of paint are a fact of life. Don’t panic! When stains happen, simply wipe the area with a damp cloth or sponge. Then go over it with a dry cloth to absorb any excess moisture.
Keep your floors looking new for longer
Here are a few simple things you can do to prevent scratches and scuffs on your SPC flooring:
- Have doormats at all your home’s entrances to catch dirt and debris.
- If you have pets, decorating with rugs can protect floors from scratches.
- Put peel-and-stick felt pads on the bottom of your table and chair legs.
- When moving furniture, slide mats or towels underneath the feet.
- Even though SPC floors are water resistant, clean up any spills promptly. Otherwise, the water could soak into the cracks and lead to mould.
Pro tip: UV exposure can cause vinyl flooring to fade or turn yellow. To prevent discolouration, keep your blinds or curtains closed as much as possible. Of course, there’s no need to sit in the dark—find the right balance between protecting your floors and enjoying natural light.
SPC floors that shine!
Dubiously patterned vinyl floors are definitely a thing of the past. The vinyl flooring of today is aesthetically pleasing, affordable and low maintenance—every home and cottage owner’s dream. With these easy tips and tricks, you’ll be able to enjoy your SPC flooring for years to come!
To find cloths, mops and cleaners, shop online or visit your local BMR.
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The information in this article is intended as a guide only and may not apply to specific situations or cases. If in doubt, contact a BMR expert in your area.