SPC flooring, as an environmentally friendly and wear-resistant flooring material, is becoming increasingly popular in the market. However, a common question arises during the installation of SPC flooring: Is it necessary to leave gaps between the flooring, and if so, how large should the expansion gaps be? This article will delve into the necessity of leaving gaps during SPC flooring installation and how to properly set expansion gaps to ensure the stability and durability of the flooring.

Firstly, why is it necessary to leave some gaps during the installation of SPC flooring?

  1. Temperature Changes and Material Expansion:SPC flooring is primarily composed of a Stone Plastic Composite material, which may expand or contract in response to temperature changes. To allow the flooring to expand and contract freely under different temperatures, leaving appropriate gaps is necessary. This helps avoid compression and deformation between the floorings, ensuring the overall structure’s stability.
  2. Humidity Impact and Waterproof Treatment: SPC flooring may experience slight expansion under changes in humidity. By leaving gaps between the flooring, the impact of humidity can be mitigated, and the waterproof performance can be enhanced. This is crucial for maintaining the appearance and performance of the flooring.

However, larger gaps are not always better, so it’s essential to consider the proper setting of expansion gaps. The setting of expansion gaps should consider the following factors:

  1. Manufacturer’s Recommendations: The installation instructions for SPC flooring typically include recommendations regarding expansion gaps. Different models and specifications of flooring may have different recommendations, so it’s important to carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines before installation.
  2. Environmental Factors:The local climate and environmental conditions will also influence the setting of expansion gaps. In areas with higher humidity, larger expansion gaps may be needed to accommodate the flooring’s expansion in moist conditions.
  3. Room Size: Larger rooms, due to the relatively greater expansion of the flooring, usually require larger expansion gaps. Smaller rooms may experience less impact from expansion, allowing for a reduction in the size of expansion gaps.

In conclusion, setting expansion gaps is a matter that requires considering various factors. When installing SPC flooring, it is advisable to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and make necessary adjustments based on the actual circumstances.