Learn More About Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring
Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring is an engineered vinyl floor that has an enhanced rigid core construction for dimensional stability. A rigid core vinyl will be a solid plank that has less pliability, giving it a sturdy feel to install and under foot. This floor is an improved version of traditional vinyl floors that adds more of a wood floor feel to a vinyl.
Types of Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring
There are several types of rigid core flooring that you may come across on your vinyl floor shopping experience. The most popular rigid core vinyls on the market are WPC vinyl, SPC vinyl and Hybrid vinyl flooring. Vinyl floors may be advertised as just rigid core, or include the abbreviation to describe the type of core construction.
WPC vinyl flooring is a vinyl floor with a wood plastic composite core. You can learn more about WPC vinyl flooring here.
SPC vinyl flooring is a vinyl floor with a stone plastic composite core. You can learn more about SPC vinyl flooring here.
Hybrid vinyl flooring is a vinyl floor that has been engineered to include laminate and vinyl features. You can learn more about hybrid vinyl flooring here.
Construction of Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring
Rigid core floors may be different depending on the type of rigid core floor you choose. Below is a general construction of what you’ll find with a rigid core vinyl.
- Wear Layer – The wear layer is the top coating on the vinyl floor that is transparent. This adds scratch and stain resistance to the vinyl plank.
- Vinyl Top Coat – A rigid core vinyl will have a thin layer of vinyl on the top of the core.
- Rigid Core – The rigid core can be made of several different materials, such as WPC or SPC. This is what will set the stability and durability apart from a regular vinyl floor.
- Attached Underlayment – Not all rigid core floors will include underlayment, but it is a popular option with these floors. An attached underlayment will give you extra cushion under your foot and absorb sound.
Benefits of Rigid Vinyl Flooring
Rigid core vinyl is becoming a first choice for home and business owners due to the benefits this floor provides. In general, a rigid core vinyl will provide the following benefits:
Waterproof: All rigid core vinyls will be 100% waterproof. Moisture and humidity will not damage or cause the planks to swell.
Appearance: Rigid core vinyls are available in a variety of colors, textures and styles. These vinyls mimic real hardwoods and tile looks.
DIY Installation: Rigid core click vinyls will feature a DIY installation with a tongue and groove system, much like traditional vinyl or laminate.
Comfort: A rigid core vinyl is going to feel more sturdy and cushioned under foot than a traditional vinyl due to the dense core and thickness of the plank.
Sound: With the dense core, these plank tends to have a quieter sound. You should not hear a hallow sound when you walk on a rigid core vinyl.
Affordability: Rigid core vinyl plank flooring is very budget friendly. Depending on the type of rigid core, brand and features, there are low end to high end rigid core vinyls on the market.
Easy Maintenance and Cleaning: Just like a traditional vinyl, rigid core vinyls are just as easy to clean and maintain! Simple maintenance and regular cleaning will be enough to keep these floors looking great.
As you can see, rigid core vinyls have many benefits. Depending on your project and needs, it may be the perfect flooring solution!