You might be wondering: Does rigid core flooring expand and contract with temperature changes? Or perhaps you want to know if it is easy to install? Read on to learn more. This article answers these questions and more. Read on to learn more about this versatile type of vinyl flooring. Also read on to discover what it is made of and how durable it is. Then you can decide whether or not it is right for your home. But first, let’s examine some of the basic facts about rigid core flooring.
Does rigid core flooring contract with temperature changes?
Do you know if rigid core flooring contracts or expands with temperature changes? There are several factors to consider when deciding on this type of flooring. This type of flooring features a core composed of solid PVC, Magnesium Oxide, or stone-plastic composite. Rigid core flooring is also waterproof, meaning it won’t absorb or change shape when exposed to moisture. Rigid core flooring is an excellent choice for rooms that are subject to frequent spills and moisture.
One thing to keep in mind when choosing a rigid core flooring material is the thickness of the wear layer. SPC has a thin wear layer, which is more likely to expand in cold temperatures, while WPC contains a thicker one. The thicker wear layer on WPC is more durable and will be comfortable underfoot for longer periods. The thicker wear layer of SPC flooring will hold up better to scratches.
What makes rigid core flooring so resilient? The material’s core is made from a stone-plastic composite, which makes it nearly indestructible. Rigid core luxury vinyl flooring has the same resilience as concrete, but is waterproof. It is also more easy to maintain than WPC vinyl. Regardless of its tensile strength, it is extremely resilient, making it an excellent choice for homes and offices.
Is it easy to install?
Compared to other types of wood or vinyl floors, rigid core flooring does not require acclimatization. You can install it on any subfloor, but if you have ceramic tiles, you’ll have to use a leveling compound before installing the new flooring. A floating floor installation method is more forgiving than gluing it down. However, if you’re planning to use this type of flooring in the bathroom, you should also know that you’ll need to remove the tile or vinyl floor and replace it with a new one.
One of the most attractive aspects of rigid core flooring is its low price. Depending on the style, it costs between $2 and $5 per square foot. These floors are suitable for any size home, and are water-resistant. You can even install them over concrete floors and heat floors. And they’re also quite easy to install. So, how easy is it to install rigid core flooring? The answer may surprise you!
Because rigid core flooring has multiple layers, it enhances its performance. Most rigid core vinyl products have 4 basic layers: a wear layer protects the vinyl print layer and provides resistance to everyday foot traffic. The rigid core layer provides dimensional stability, underfoot comfort, and sound absorption. This is why rigid core flooring is so popular in bathrooms. If you’re worried about how to install rigid core flooring, you can read the steps below.
Is it durable?
Many types of rigid core flooring are designed with an acoustical backing, which helps to reduce noise transfer to rooms below. This can help reduce noise from televisions and home theater systems as well as late-night activity. Rigid core flooring is waterproof, too. Some even feature an integrated underlayment for added comfort and soundproofing. But before buying rigid core flooring, it’s best to know what to expect from it.
A solid rigid core is 100% waterproof. This means water and other liquids won’t seep through and ruin your floor. This is especially important in high-traffic areas, such as the kitchen or bathroom. Rigid core LVP is completely waterproof, which means you don’t have to worry about water seeping through and becoming a breeding ground for mold. This is why Armstrong markets Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Flooring as 100% waterproof, and guarantees a firm bond between planks.
While WPC is 100% moisture-proof, SPC cores are generally harder underfoot. Rigid Core WPC flooring comes with an underlayment, but cork underlayment offers softer underfoot feel. It’s also highly resilient, soundproof, and heat-insulating. Rigid Core WPC flooring is also available in wood-like styles. However, make sure to do some research and compare the pros and cons of each type.