Discover the difference between SPC and WPC in luxury vinyl flooring.
While searching for the perfect vinyl flooring, you may have come across the terms SPC and WPC. Read on to discover what they are, the differences between them, how they’re made, and some comparisons in cost, comfort and durability.
What is Rigid-Core Luxury Vinyl?
Luxury vinyl flooring features an extremely durable 4-layer construction that makes it 100% waterproof, and highly resistant to scratches, dents and fading. It comes in just about any look like wood, stone and tile, and is easy to install and can go over existing floors.
WPC and SPC vinyl flooring both have a thick, rigid core made of PVC and other materials.
WPC - made of a wood polymer composite
SPC - made of a stone polymer composite
What is WPC?
The WPC core is made by combining wood pulp, plasticizers and foaming agents to create a sturdy, waterproof core that is stable, yet comfortable under foot. WPC vinyl cores are thick, resilient, and dense.
Think warmth - softer, quieter and more comfortable.
The thicker the planks/tiles are, the sturdier and more durable your floors will be.
The wood/plastic core prevents the floor from being warped by moisture and temperature fluctuations.
A good option if people will be standing on the floor for great lengths of time.
What is SPC?
SPC features a core that is comprised of around 60% limestone, polyvinyl chloride and plasticizers. It provides rigidity and stability for the plank/tile. This core is ultra-dense with no foaming agents like traditional WPC flooring. It gives you slightly less resilience underfoot, but it makes the flooring incredibly durable.
Think strength - denser, harder, more impact resistant, colder to the touch.
A good option for high traffic applications
Likely the future of this category
What is the difference between WPC and SPC?
Durability - SPC’s dense core is less likely to dent than WPC. | Stability - SPC is more stable under temperature changes and high heat than WPC. |
Foot Feel - WPC’s thickness offers a more comfortable, cushioned underfoot than SPC. | Sound Absorption - WPC’s thicker core absorbs sound better than SPC. |
Flexibility - SPC is less forgiving than WPC over uneven surfaces. | Price - SPC is typically less expensive than WPC. |
Application Ideas
Depending on where you intend to install your new vinyl flooring, choosing the right construction can make a huge difference. Below are some of the situations where it would make more sense to pick SPC over WPC and vice versa.
Basement: It’s best to go for WPC flooring so you can have better insulation. For extra warmth, look for WPC planks with attached padding.
Home gym: Pick SPC, as it’s sturdier and more stable. That way, you won’t have to worry about dropping heavy weights.
Multi–level house: WPC will fare much better, as it will keep sound to a minimum. Consider options with extra padding for added sound absorption.
A workshop: Because you will be standing for extended periods of time, WPC flooring is a more practical option as it’s more comfortable. But if you are worried about dropping sharp or heavy pieces of equipment and denting the floor, consider SPC; you will have better peace of mind.
Whether you're creating a space for the home, office, or retail business, find the look you want at CFM!