The name stands for Stone Polymer Composite, or stone-polymer composite. This is a new floor covering that combines the strength of granite and the simplicity of linoleum.
SPC tiles are conventionally divided into 4 layers.
- Stone-like base.
- Thin polymer-paper backing, painted in the desired shade.
- Thin vinyl film that protects the base from abrasion and scratches. For wood or rough stone tiles, a relief pattern imitating natural texture is printed on this layer.
- Polyurethane varnish that is resistant to water, ultraviolet radiation, scratches and slipping.
Some brands additionally provide a soft backing. Without it, tiles cannot be laid. But most manufacturers offer to order a universal backing for laminate separately.
The layers are not glued together, but strongly heated and pressed under high pressure. The polymers they contain react with each other, ensuring an inseparable bond between all layers. The tiles are thin, look solid and do not delaminate: they can be easily heated, cut or sawed, even bent. But the latter is useless.