SPC VS WPC Flooring: What Is The Difference? | Tileswale

Let’s agree that you’ve probably come across the phrases SPC and WPC when looking for the right vinyl flooring.

Do you want to know the differences between SPC and WPC vinyl?

Then all your questions rest here!

Firstly, both of these alternatives are known to be completely waterproof & almost equally durable; (SPC A bit more!)

SPC flooring is a relatively new substance with a strong core that is virtually unbreakable. WPC flooring, on the other hand is the industry standard for vinyl flooring, with a waterproof core that is both pleasant and useful.

Let’s dig deeper to know the advantages and disadvantages of SPC and WPC, understand how they're created, and compare the cost, durability, and comfort in this head-to-head comparison.

SPC VS WPC Flooring: The Overview

SPC Flooring: An Introduction

The most lasting waterproof vinyl flooring choice on the market is Stone Plastic (or Polymer) Composite flooring, generally known as SPC flooring. It has a similar structure as WPC, but it has an ultra-tough core, thus the moniker “rigid core.”

So, what exactly is SPC?

Well, basically… It relates to the core's composition.The SPC core is what makes this flooring so tough, as it keeps its shape even on uneven subfloors.SPC solid core luxury vinyl flooring may be installed on any level, over nearly any existing (hard surface) subfloor, and for any amount of traffic.It used to be thought that thicker vinyl flooring was preferable. Manufacturers of flooring have now developed an ultra-thin, ultra-durable choice. Rigid core luxury vinyl planks and tiles are designed to be ultra-thin, measuring no more than 6mm in thickness.

You might believe the flooring is too weak or thin to withstand anything just by looking at it, but bend it.It's quite difficult to even get it to move.So, what's the secret to this thin plank's toughness? It's because of the layered structure. SPC rigid core luxury vinyl flooring normally has four layers, however this varies by manufacturer.

Let's look at what SPC layers have to offer:

Check out different layers of SPC Flooring below:

Backing Layer:

This is the plank's sturdy base. A pre-attached underlayment is frequently included with the backing.

SPC Core:

No matter how much moisture it is exposed to, SPC flooring has a solid, waterproof core that will not expand or ripple.

Layer of Printed Vinyl:

This layer contains hyper-realistic picture images that give the vinyl a stone and wood appearance

Layer of Wear:

The wear layer acts as the plank's bodyguard, protecting your floor from wear and tear. When it comes to donning layers, thicker is still preferable. For heavy-duty protection, SPC flooring generally comes with thick wear layers.

Advantages of SPC Flooring

Check out various pros of stone polymer composite flooring below.

It's Waterproof:

That is why solid core and WPC vinyl are so popular. It's ideal for company owners, pets, and places that are prone to flooding.

Ideal for uneven floor settings:

Rigid core may be put over any existing hard surface, including tile, regardless of how defective or uneven it is.

Ultra-durable:

Because of the SPC core, this vinyl flooring is the most durable alternative available.

Looks like real wood and stone:

Vinyl flooring that replicates natural materials better than ever before is now available. Because SPC vinyl is the best, the pictures are generally quite convincing and gorgeous.

Low-maintenance:

It's easy to keep your floor looking great. You're set if you vacuum and mop every now and again.

Installation is simple:

Most rigid core luxury vinyl tiles and planks interlock and float over your current surface, making installation a breeze.

SPC Flooring's Drawbacks

Check out various cons of stone polymer composite(SPC) flooring below.

WPC is less comfortable:

Rigid core vinyl was created to be durable, not comfy. That is why it is so common in business settings.

Chilly floors than WPC:

Because the stone composite core doesn't keep a lot of heat, your flooring will be cold when it's cold outside.

What is WPC Flooring?

WPC means Wood-plastic composite; AKA the Waterproof core!

In addition to being entirely waterproof, the WPC core is improved with a foaming agent, making it somewhat softer and more comfortable. The main feature of WPC vinyl flooring is that it is completely waterproof. It's premium vinyl flooring with a waterproof core that's ideal for every area in the house. This flooring is extremely popular among homeowners who want the beauty of classic hardwood floors without the upkeep. It is also one of the most popular commercial flooring solutions. It's both attractive and low-maintenance. It's also simple to put together, making it a DIYer's dream.

WPC Flooring Layers

WPC waterproof flooring usually has four layers, however this might vary depending on the manufacturer. Here's what you should anticipate to discover in general:

Supporting Layer:

This is your plank's bottom layer. It offers a solid foundation and frequently includes an underlayment for increased convenience.

WPC core:

It's here where the magic happens. WPC flooring features a robust, waterproof WPC core. No matter how much water it meets, it won’t swell, discolour, or distort.

Layer of printed vinyl:

This layer contains the beautiful picture imagery of wood or stone that has made vinyl as popular as a natural material substitute.

Wear Layers:

This layer protects the surface of your floor from normal wear and tear. The better the protection, the thicker the wear layer!

WPC Vinyl Flooring Benefits

Check out different benefits of wood polymer composite flooring below.

Completely water-resistant:

WPC vinyl is engineered to tolerate moisture from both the top and bottom, preventing water damage to your floor.

Offers great Comfort:

True, you could just purchase a waterproof tile or SPC plank that looks like wood or stone. But those are difficult choices. Standing all day on a hard surface is bad for your joints and feet. Also, WPC is significantly more durable and pleasant.

Style:

Vinyl is currently the most popular music format. Luxury vinyl is available in the popular wood-look and stone-look designs that everyone is talking about.

Installation by yourself is possible:

If you enjoy DIY projects, you'll appreciate how simple it is to install WPC flooring. Many have tongue-and-groove interlocking systems that may float over your existing floor.

Low-maintenance:

You can simply maintain your floor looking new with the occasional sweep and mop.

WPC Vinyl Flooring’s Drawbacks

Check out disadvantages of wood polymer composite(WPC) flooring below:

More prone to scars & dents:

WPC rigid core vinyl isn't as durable as SPC rigid core vinyl. It's more comfy, but it's also more prone to dent if you drop something heavy.

A little more expensive:

WPC is somewhat more expensive than SPC. Nevertheless, as more firms develop their own WPC lines, WPC flooring prices are beginning to fall and become more accessible. It's also less costly than solid hardwood and requires far less upkeep.

The Battle of SPC vs. WPC Flooring

So, what exactly is the distinction between SPC and WPC?

The solution can be found in their various cores. For both WPC and rigid core flooring, the waterproof core is the main attraction. The core of a WPC is comprised of wood plastic composite. A foaming agent has been added to the core to improve resilience and comfort.

In the meanwhile, a stone plastic composite core is used. The stone is firmer, more durable, and less pliable. Since there is no foaming ingredient in the SPC, it has a stronger, more solid core. SPC is frequently utilized for high-traffic commercial settings since it is extremely robust, unbending, and almost unbreakable. It's also less prone to dents because to its stiff core, which is always a bonus in places with a lot of heavy furniture or traffic.

Let’s compare these two possibilities were for different types of carpet! WPC flooring would be like a plush, luxurious residential carpet. Whereas SPC rigid core would be more like a commercial carpet. One is more comfortable, while the other is more durable, and both perform an excellent job. So now you understand the fundamentals of SPC and WPC, as well as the variations between their core layers.

And now we can see the core comparison factors to state the solid difference between SPC Flooring & WPC Flooring.

Pricing:

• When compared to other flooring solutions, WPC may be very costly.

• However, it has other advantages, including complete water resistance.

• SPC vinyl is often less expensive than WPC and has the same benefits.

• That is why rigid core SPC is so appealing to business owners

As a result, SPC is the winner.

Feel:

• The stiff stone composite core gives SPC its increased toughness, but it also makes it inflexible and chilly.

• WPC is more pleasant beneath your feet and maintains some warmth.

• And this is especially significant in your house, because it has a more flexible core.

And that's how, WPC emerged victorious.

Application:

• Basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and all levels of the home benefit from WPC.

• Because it is gentler underfoot, WPC is frequently recommended for residential usage.

• SPC vinyl is suitable for these environments, as well as for commercial venues with high foot traffic.

As a result, SPC is the winner.

Durability:

• Despite the fact that both SPC and WPC vinyl are quite durable, SPC wins out.

• Even the most heavy traffic or furniture won't scratch the surface thanks to the stone-plastic hybrid core.

And so, SPC is the winner.

Resistance to Moisture

• SPC and WPC are both entirely moisture-resistant, therefore "100% water resistant" implies just that.

• Water will not destroy these boards from the top or bottom due to their sophisticated cores and multilayer construction.

Winner: a stalemate!

Craft Friendly:

• Because SPC and WPC both have an interlocking tongue-and-groove system, they're simple to install on your own.

• It's as simple as clicking them together.

Winner: a stalemate!

Finally, it's impossible to conclude if SPC or WPC flooring is superior to the other. It all depends on where you want to put it and what you want to get out of it.

So, in the Battle of SPC vs WPC: Who's the Winner?

Looking for something more durable and comfy to walk on? Then, WPC is the ideal choice for you.

Perhaps you require business flooring that can withstand high usage. Then, SPC vinyl is required if this is the case!

You see!

Both solutions have a lot to offer, and now that you understand the distinctions, you'll feel confident in your decision. So, are you prepared to shop the tiles & other solutions online? Then TilesWale has got all the answers for you! Before ending the session, Can we skip to the good part?

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