SPC Flooring Feels Soft and Bouncy Why 2024
A properly installed SPC floor should feel solid and stable underfoot. If the floor feels soft or bouncy when walking there is likely an underlayment issue. This guide explains the causes and solutions.
Why SPC Flooring Feels Soft
The most common cause is underlayment that is too thick or too soft. SPC flooring is a rigid product but it can flex if the underlayment compresses unevenly. Underlayment thicker than 3mm can cause instability. The planks need a firm base to lock together properly. Multiple layers of underlayment can also create a soft feel. Some installers add extra underlayment thinking more is better but this causes problems.
Recommended Underlayment Thickness
SPC flooring performs best with 1 to 3mm underlayment. IXPE underlayment is the recommended type for SPC. Standard foam underlayment used for laminate can be too soft for SPC. Underlayment with attached vapor barrier provides the right balance.
How to Fix a Soft Floor
Identify if the underlayment is too thick by checking at the edge of the room. If the underlayment is thicker than 3mm it needs to be replaced. Remove planks in the affected area. Remove the incorrect underlayment. Install proper underlayment of the correct thickness. Reinstall the planks on the corrected base.
Prevention
Always use underlayment recommended for SPC flooring. Do not exceed 3mm total underlayment thickness. Do not double layer underlayment. Use IXPE underlayment for best results with SPC.
About PROLEADER
PROLEADER recommends IXPE underlayment for all SPC flooring installations. Contact us for underlayment specifications and recommendations.
