When you're a flooring installer, contractor, or even a DIY enthusiast, choosing the right materials is tough. There are seemingly endless choices, but with spc vs wpc, things are sometimes more direct.
These popular vinyl plank options each offer benefits, so you have to understand. You will learn the nuances, the differences between both vinyl flooring options, so a clear winner can surface for your needs.
Table Of Contents:
- SPC vs WPC a Vinyl Flooring Breakdown
- SPC or WPC: A Detailed Comparison
- Aesthetics and Design Choices
- Pros and Cons
- Application-Specific Considerations
- The Wear Layer on These Floors
- Comparing Installation Methods
- Maintenance and Care Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
SPC vs WPC a Vinyl Flooring Breakdown
Both are types of luxury vinyl flooring. Both became well-liked because they are often 100% waterproof and much more stable than the super thin material of roll out sheet vinyl.
SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite (or Stone Polymer Composite). The core is made from a mixture of natural stone materials mixed with hardened plastic. WPC stands for Wood Plastic Composite and its known to be more comfortable underfoot.
The Core of SPC
SPC has a rigid core. This is made from a mix of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers.
The result is an incredibly dense, stable, and durable core. This core will not easily expand or contract with temperature or humidity changes.
Understanding WPC's Core
The Wood Plastic Composite has a core created from a blend of wood flour material (or other wood-like materials) and hardened plasticizers.
This gives a wood composite floor a more resilient feel underfoot than hardwood. This does not make it any less waterproof.
WPC or SPC: A Detailed Comparison
So how do these two types of vinyl planks really differ? WPC or SPC will both have a waterproof construction and a more dense plank than hardwood offers. Depending on your home, one may be better than the other for your project.
Our general rule of thumb is simple for these products. A spc vinyl is great for rooms with lots of water and foot traffic. A wpc vinyl can go in any room an spc can but make sure you're saving A LOT of money on the material cost.
Composition and Structure
The spc core composition is the main structural difference. SPC, with its stone-based core, is very resistant to dents. Get a free sample of both vinyl floor types, you'll notice the stone makes a huge difference in how tough a plank feels.
A wood plastic plank offers a bit more "give" when you walk on it. The softer feel can contribute to better feel underfoot, but it won't handle as much abuse as its buffed up stone rival.
Water Resistance and Durability
SPC and WPC floors offer solid performance in moisture-prone areas. They do not swell, buckle, or degrade when exposed to water.
The density of SPC gives it a higher resistance to major impacts, scratches. High-traffic commercial flooring environments can benefit from SPC, where durability is super important.
Soundproofing
WPC flooring typically provides better soundproofing than SPC. The core absorbs noise and the structure makes WPC flooring better for environments where noise reduction is essential.
This is why we sometimes prefer to use it for multi-story buildings.
Stability with Temperature Fluctuations
Temperature changes can impact almost all vinyl floors in some way, but that is not so much the case with SPC and WPC. Environmental variations in temperature happen.
Both SPC and WPC floors solve expansion problems in unique ways.The stone composite design helps keep SPC very stable.
Installation Differences
Both SPC and WPC flooring are simple to install. They have interlocking tongue-and-groove systems.
There is not a need for messy glues or nails. Most homeowners do not need help installing it.
Comfort Levels
We often tell our clients that WPC typically offers better comfort underfoot. It's softer core feels better to some of our clients.
SPC's density can feel more solid. It also feels colder underfoot, especially during those harsh winter months.
Cost Analysis
Budget considerations often sway decisions. Cost is a driving factor between SPC and WPC flooring, but maybe not like it used to be.
SPC is seen as the budget-friendly option, so that helps customers. But prices have really come down for both options in recent years making cost very close.
Aesthetics and Design Choices
The core makeup has the impact with durability. This has little to do with how they appear in design choices.
Both SPC and WPC floors will mimic the look of natural materials. They are a preferred pick, by some, to more accurately imitate traditional flooring.
Pros and Cons
You will be faced with having to make tradeoffs.
This goes with every purchase.
Pros of SPC
- Superior Durability: The dense, stone-based core gives SPC exceptional resistance to impacts.
- Stability: Minimal expansion and contraction in SPC, can allow the product to outperform even the best of environments.
- Affordability: Budget-conscious shoppers can save a lot more using SPC than WPC, at least historically.
Cons of SPC
- Less Comfortable: Some say SPC can feel harder, and often much colder.
- Sound Transmission: Others find SPC's density has sound travel further than WPC.
Pros of WPC
- Better Comfort: WPC's composition is more resilient for those that spend more time on their feet.
- Reduced Noise: WPC's less dense core, and foam layer help more with acoustics.
- Warmth: Many can feel a notable difference between WPC and a more traditional SPC.
Cons of WPC
- Price: WPC tends to come in at a slightly higher price.
- Less Resistance: Some customers have problems with scratches in heavy traffic or active settings.
Application-Specific Considerations
Sometimes where you intend to lay your flooring is all it takes.
Some applications clearly favor either SPC or WPC.
Best Uses for SPC Flooring
Commercial spaces make sense. It's impact and wear resistance, make SPC an incredible selection.
High-traffic areas do better. Think entryways and busy hallways, the superior durability is valuable.
Ideal Environments for WPC Flooring
Bedrooms can be ideal. WPC's noise-reducing nature has big benefits when comfort matters.
Living rooms do just fine. Anywhere added warmth and softness is important, that can help make the room just "feel better" than it did with previous flooring types.
The Wear Layer on These Floors
While the core material defines much of the character of SPC and WPC flooring, the wear layer is equally critical. This transparent top layer protects the underlying design from scratches, stains, and fading.
Wear layer thickness, usually measured in mils (thousandths of an inch), varies widely. A thicker wear layer provides more protection and increases the longevity of your flooring.
Wear Layer Thickness and Its Impact
A 12-mil wear layer is common for residential use. Commercial settings, or homes with high traffic and pets, might need 20-mil or even higher. The thicker the wear layer, the better equipped your floor will be to handle daily wear and tear. Consider high-traffic areas such as kitchens, entryways, and hallways when making your decision. The wear resistance keeps the floor's design looking vibrant. The visual appearance stays intact, longer.
Comparing Installation Methods
Both are about the same. They both offer glue down options, click together options, or peel and stick products. These floors are built to be floated to allow a DIY friendly installation.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Both SPC and WPC flooring do not need high maintenance. But taking good care of them is good so it preserves it longer.
Cleaning is easy enough. Sweep up dirt from time to time. Occasional wet mopping with a suitable floor cleaner will get up what is missed.
Long-Term Maintenance
Long-term care for both flooring types involves simple preventative measures. Using furniture pads under heavy items helps avoid dents.
Placing area rugs in high-traffic zones reduces wear. You can extend the lifespan and appearance of both SPC and WPC flooring options.
Cleaning Tips
Regular sweeping or vacuuming keeps dirt from accumulating. Dust and other particles are removed to prevent abrasive actions that cause surface scratching. For deeper cleaning, a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner is perfect. A mild soap that is approved for vinyl flooring will prevent damage to the wear layer. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steam mops, or harsh chemicals.
FAQs
Is SPC better than WPC?
It really depends. Stone Polymer Cores excel in durability and stability. Wooden Composite Cores are more soft and comfortable underfoot that allows for a reduction in noise leaks.
What are the disadvantages of Wood Plastic Cores?
Wood and plastic composite cores can cost more, although they have closed the pricing gap significantly in recent years. It can also have resistance to dents and scratches.
Does COREtec offer only one core type?
COREtec gives you choices. The brand offers both WPC and SPC flooring lines so you get more options.
Can you put Luxury Vinyl Floors over existing flooring?
Both SPC and WPC flooring can often be installed over existing hard, flat surfaces. Existing surfaces can be tile, hardwood, or concrete. Proper preparation is essential. The existing floor must be clean, level, and free of major imperfections. It's generally not recommended to install either SPC or WPC over carpet. The carpet would create instability.
How do these rigid vinyl cores compare to laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring uses a high-density fiberboard core. Laminate can be more vulnerable to moisture damage. SPC and WPC flooring are fully waterproof. In terms of durability, SPC generally outperforms laminate. Especially when dealing with major impacts and heavy traffic.
How do I know if I should use SPC or WPC for a bathroom or kitchen?
Both are waterproof, making either a viable choice for bathrooms and kitchens. SPC might be preferable in a high-traffic kitchen. WPC could be more comfortable for bare feet.
Conclusion
Picking out new lvp flooring is no cakewalk. Your decision, when deciding between different vinyl cores comes down to what you prioritize.
There's no doubt you'll find a fit in the vinyl flooring world, with some searching.
