The technological advancements and developments in the science of wood flooring has led to endless possibilities when it comes to luxury vinyl flooring. Of the many latest offerings in the luxury vinyl flooring is of rigid core vinyl flooring. This type of flooring can be best described as one which has a rigid and strong core for added robustness and durability. It comes with a built-in locking system which makes the installation easy and effortless.
There are two main categories of luxury vinyl flooring, namely SPC vinyl flooring and WPC vinyl flooring. SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite or Stone Polymer Composite and WPC stands for Wood Plastic Composite or Wood Polymer Composite. Both these different varieties of luxury vinyl flooring have some common traits, but they also have key differences which you need to take into consideration before making your choice.
Stone Plastic Composite or Stone Polymer Composite features a strong core that is generally composed of around 60% calcium carbonate (commonly known as limestone), polyvinyl chloride, and plasticizers. This excellent combination of different polymers make the core almost indestructible, making SPC vinyl flooring one of the strongest and most durable vinyl flooring solutions. It is also 100% waterproof and advanced technologies have enabled these luxury flooring planks to replicate the look of natural stone or wood. Strong, durable, 100% waterproof, and pleasing aesthetics make SPC luxury vinyl flooring an ideal choice for heavy traffic and commercial spaces.
Wood Plastic Composite or Wood Polymer Composite luxury flooring is similar to SPC vinyl in construction and design, but the only difference is the composition of calcium carbonate or limestone. Stone plastic composite has a higher percentage of calcium carbonate than wood polymer composite. Just as SPC, WPC vinyl flooring is also 100% waterproof and can effortlessly mimic the genuine look of wood or stone providing a beautiful design and finish.
Whether it is SPC luxury vinyl or WPC luxury vinyl flooring, the construction and basic composition remains the same. Both of these types of luxury flooring options are made up of four different layers which are:
Base Layer: This forms the backing base layer, generally composed of EVA foam or cork
Core Layer: This is the strong and waterproof core which comprised of either stone polymer composite or wood plastic composite
Vinyl Layer: The vinyl layer is strong and robust which is printed with flooring design, style and colour
Wear Layer: It is a thin, transparent layer which is applied over the vinyl layer to protect the flooring from stains and scratches
As SPC and WPC vinyl flooring share a lot in common, it only makes sense that they both share a few benefits and advantages over other flooring solutions available in the market. These are:
Waterproof: Both WPC and SPC luxury vinyl is waterproof as the basic construction and composition is the same. Unlike traditional solid hardwood or engineered wood, SPC and WPC vinyl are resistant to warping when exposed to higher levels of moisture content. This is also the main reason as to why WPC and SPC flooring options are highly recommended in wet areas of the house like kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms.
Strength and Durability: The core of WPC and SPC is rigid which lends strength and the top wear layer over the vinyl plank makes the floor stain and scratch resistant. These qualities fit the perfect conditions of a commercial environment, where there is a regular heavy footfall and exposure to natural elements.
Easy and Effortless Maintenance: WPC and SPC luxury flooring are one of the easiest flooring solutions to clean and maintain. All you need to do is vacuum and damp mop it from time to time to keep the floor shining and beautiful.
Numerous Style Options: Luxury vinyl flooring comes in a wide range of styles, designs, patterns, and colours. Most of the luxury vinyl planks replicate the authentic look and appearance of stone, wood, or tile.
Which is Better?
It would be really difficult to judge on which out of WPC or SPC luxury vinyl flooring is better. The simple reason is that both have their own pros and cons, and also it depends on the needs of a customer which can differ from person to person. As discussed already SPC luxury vinyl is slightly stronger and more durable than WPC luxury vinyl flooring. This is due to the higher composition of calcium carbonate or limestone in SPC vinyl. However, this same property turns out to a disadvantage as higher stone composition means that the floor does not feel warm underfoot. The rigid core makes all the difference between SPC and WPC, even in terms of its utility. SPC luxury vinyl flooring is mostly preferred in commercial spaces and establishments due to its strength, robustness, and ability to withstand high-traffic. WPC luxury vinyl is chosen by home buyers and household environments as it feels much better on your foot than SPC and also because it is a much better conductor of heat which helps keep the flooring warm and cozy in cold winters
