SPC Flooring Noise Issues and Solutions
SPC flooring is durable and stable, but some users experience noise issues such as clicking, creaking, or hollow sounds underfoot. These noises are usually related to installation methods, subfloor conditions, or missing accessories rather than the flooring material itself. This guide explains common SPC flooring noise problems and how to fix or prevent them.
Common SPC Flooring Noise Problems
1. Clicking or Tapping Sounds
Clicking noises often occur when planks move slightly against each other due to improper locking or uneven subfloors.
Solution:
- Ensure planks are fully clicked and locked during installation
- Check for damaged locking profiles and replace affected planks
- Confirm correct expansion gaps around walls
2. Hollow or Echoing Sound
A hollow sound usually indicates air gaps between the flooring and the subfloor or the absence of underlay.
Solution:
- Level the subfloor properly before installation
- Use recommended acoustic underlay where required
- Avoid installing SPC flooring over uneven surfaces
3. Creaking Noise When Walking
Creaking can happen when SPC flooring flexes slightly due to subfloor movement or pressure points.
Solution:
- Ensure the subfloor is rigid and secure
- Remove debris that may be trapped beneath planks
- Reinstall affected areas if needed
4. Noise Near Walls or Doorways
Noise around edges often occurs when flooring is tightly pressed against walls, skirting, or door frames.
Solution:
- Maintain a 5–10 mm expansion gap
- Ensure skirting boards do not restrict floor movement
- Trim door frames properly to allow free movement
5. Noise Caused by Temperature Changes
Temperature fluctuations can cause slight expansion or contraction, resulting in movement-related sounds.
Solution:
- Maintain stable indoor temperatures
- Reduce direct sunlight exposure using curtains or blinds
- Allow proper acclimatisation before installation
How to Prevent SPC Flooring Noise
- Prepare and level the subfloor carefully
- Use acoustic underlay where recommended
- Follow correct installation techniques
- Leave proper expansion gaps
- Avoid trapping flooring under fixed furniture
Click Lock vs Glue Down and Noise Performance
Click-lock SPC flooring may produce more movement-related sounds if installed incorrectly, while glue-down SPC flooring generally offers better sound stability due to its bonded installation. Choosing the right installation method for the application can reduce noise issues significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is noise common in SPC flooring?
No, noise is not common when SPC flooring is installed correctly on a prepared subfloor.
2. Does SPC flooring need underlay to reduce noise?
Underlay is recommended in many cases to improve sound absorption and comfort.
3. Can noise issues be fixed without replacing the floor?
Yes, many noise issues can be resolved by correcting expansion gaps or leveling subfloor areas.
4. Is glue-down SPC quieter than click-lock?
Generally, yes. Glue-down SPC flooring has less movement and fewer noise issues.
5. Does SPC flooring make noise over time?
Properly installed SPC flooring remains quiet and stable for many years.
Raltro
Raltro is a practical material knowledge platform that explains flooring performance, installation behaviour, and real-world usage challenges. For SPC flooring, it highlights noise-related issues, their causes, and preventive solutions, helping users plan installations that deliver comfort, stability, and long-term satisfaction.