Main Differences between WPC and SPC Vinyl Floors

Besides the materials used to create the core of this flooring style, the following are the key differences between WPC vinyl flooring and SPC vinyl flooring.

1.Thickness

WPC floors have a thicker core than SPC floors. Plank thickness for WPC floors is generally about 5.5 to 8 millimeters, while SPC floors are usually between 3.2 and 7 millimeters thick.

2.Foot Feel

When it comes to how the flooring feels underfoot, WPC vinyl has the advantage. Because it has a thicker core compared to SPC flooring, it feels more stable and cushioned when walking on it. That thickness also helps to provide insulation to keep the floors warmer.

3.Sound Insulation

The thicker core of WPC floors also makes them superior when it comes to sound insulation. The thickness helps to absorb the sound, so it’s quieter when walking on these floors.

4.Durability

You might think that WPC flooring would offer improved durability since it is thicker than SPC flooring, but the opposite is actually true. SPC floors may not be as thick, but they are considerably denser than WPC floors. This makes them better at resisting damage from impacts or heavy weights.

5.Stability

WPC floors and SPC floors can both be installed in any room with moisture exposure and temperature fluctuations. But when it comes to extreme temperature changes, SPC flooring tends to offer superior performance. The denser core of SPC floors makes them even more resistant to expanding and contracting than WPC floors.

6.Price

SPC floors are more affordable than WPC floors. However, don’t pick your floors based on price alone. Be sure to consider all the potential benefits and drawbacks between these two flooring options before choosing one.

Similarities Between WPC and SPC Vinyl Flooring

While there are some important differences between SPC vinyl floors and WPC vinyl floors, it’s important to note that they also have quite a few similarities:

1.Waterproof

Both of these types of rigid core flooring feature a completely waterproof core. This helps to prevent warping when exposed to moisture. You can use both types of flooring in areas of the home where hardwood and other moisture-sensitive flooring types are not typically recommended, such as laundry rooms, basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.

2.Durable

While SPC floors are denser and resistant to major impacts, both flooring types are resistant to scratches and stains. They hold up well to wear and tear even in high-traffic areas of the home. If you’re concerned about durability, look for planks with a thicker wear layer on top.

3.Easy Installation

Most homeowners are able to complete a DIY installation with either SPC or WPC flooring. They are made to be installed on top of just about any type of subfloor or existing floor. You won’t have to deal with messy glues either, since the planks easily attach to one another to lock into place.

4.Style Options

With both SPC and WPC vinyl flooring, you’ll have a huge range of style options at your fingertips. These flooring types come in just about any color and pattern, since the design is simply printed onto the vinyl layer. Many styles are made to look like other types of flooring. For example, you can get WPC or SPC flooring that looks like tile, stone, or hardwood flooring.

Traditional LVT vs SPC Vinyl Differences

1.Construction

A traditional LVT and SPC vinyl are going to have the most differences due to the construction of each plank. A vinyl floor has a simple PVC core that makes it flexible and soft. The SPC vinyl planks have a core made of a stone plastic composite, which gives it a rigid construction and less pliable feel.

2.Plank Thickness

SPC vinyl floors tend to be as thick or thicker than a standard LVT vinyl. SPC vinyl flooring usually ranges from 4mm to 6mm, while a traditional LVT will be 4mm or less.

3.Sturdiness

This is another significant difference due to the core construction. A vinyl floor will not add much support under foot. An SPC vinyl will feel significant under your foot and also prevent against dents and wear.

4.Appearance

While digital imaging has improved across the board, the look and feel of each plank will be very different. An SPC vinyl will have a realistic look, possible texture and a denser feel. A traditional vinyl may have a realistic look, but they tend to be less advanced than an SPC vinyl.

5.Subfloor 

Both a traditional LVT and an SPC vinyl can be installed over plywood, cement and existing floors, but a traditional vinyl will not be forgiving with any subfloor imperfections. If you have any dents or protrusions, a traditional LVT will take on the shape. An SPC vinyl will not change shape as easily as a traditional vinyl in this sense.

6.Installation

You can find traditional LVT planks with a glue down, loose lay or click lock installation. The SPC vinyls on the market will be a floating click lock, tongue and groove system that is DIY friendly.

7.Dent Resistance

Traditional LVT floors are soft and pliable, which means heavy furniture can easily dent the material. A SPC vinyl will be more resilient when it comes to dents and abuse. It is a great option for commercial settings due to this reason.

8.Price

SPC vinyl is one of the more affordable options in the rigid core category, however, it will generally still be more expensive than a traditional LVT floor.

How to Shop for Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring

To get the best results with this type of flooring, look for planks that have a high thickness measurement and a thicker wear layer. This will help your floors look nicer and last longer.

You’ll also want to make sure you’re seeing all your options when you shop for SPC or WPC floors. Some companies and retailers have other labels or name attached to these products, such as:

• Enhanced vinyl plank
• Rigid vinyl plank
• Engineered luxury vinyl flooring
• Waterproof vinyl flooring

Be sure to look at the details about what the core layer is made from to discern whether any of these flooring options feature a core made from SPC or WPC.