What is the difference between SPC and WPC Flooring?

Are you in a flooring dilemma, scratching your head about SPC vs WPC options? In this blog, we’ll explore what each type brings to your space, its upsides, and its drawbacks and help you make an informed choice. So, buckle up as we lead you to the perfect floor for your home or office:

What is SPC Flooring?

SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite or Stone Polymer Composite. It’s a recently newer kind of flooring. Comprising a robust core of limestone, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers, SPC flooring is designed to withstand the rigors of even the busiest spaces. The core, often referred to as the ‘engine’ of SPC, is impressively dense and practically indomitable.

What is WPC Flooring?

Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) flooring resembles a soft, supportive, and kind companion for your feet. WPC flooring is made of recycled pulp from wood and plastic composites, making it both eco-friendly as well as pleasant for your feet. For those who appreciate having the comforts of nature without cutting up on modern technology, it's the best choice.

 Pros of SPC Flooring

1. Durability:

 SPC flooring's stone composition makes it strong and almost unbreakable, akin to a superhero in the flooring industry. High-traffic areas and commercial spaces are ideal for it since the floor must remain presentable despite daily activity.

2. Water Resistance:

Go crazy—SPC is tough enough to handle it! SPC flooring is a great option for damp spaces like kitchens, baths, and basements because of its waterproof nature.

3. Simple Installation:

 SPC panels have a click-lock installation mechanism that allows them to fit together like jigsaw pieces. That implies you won't need heavy equipment or expert assistance to redesign your floors over the weekend. 

 Cons of SPC Flooring

1. Lesser Comfort Compared to WPC:

Comparing SPC vs WPC flooring, while SPC does offer comfort, it’s a tad firmer underfoot due to its dense core, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

2. Temperature Sensitivity: 

In extremely cold climates, SPC flooring can feel a bit chilly underfoot, although this is often remedied with the use of area rugs or heating systems.

Pros of WPC Flooring

1. Enhanced Comfort:

WPC flooring is softer and more flexible underfoot thanks to its core composition, offering a bit more give, which can be easier on your joints and makes standing for long periods less daunting.

2. Great Sound Insulation:

Got noisy kids or pets? Between WPC vs SPC, WPC flooring can help muffle the sound, thanks to its thick, resilient backing layer, which also adds to the comfort.

3. Aesthetic Variety: 

WPC flooring come in an abundance of layouts and patterns that closely mimic the look and feel of real wood. Whether you appreciate the clean, modern lines of designs or the timeless rustic beauty of wood, there's undoubtedly a WPC flooring option that catches your attention. 

Cons of WPC Flooring

1. Not as Hard as SPC:

 While WPC is durable, it’s not quite as hard as SPC, which can be a con in areas that see a lot of heavy furniture or high heels.

2. Cost: 

Considering SPC vs WPC price, WPC flooring can be slightly more expensive than SPC, which might be a consideration if budget is a primary concern.

SPC vs WPC: Key Differences

 1. Core layer

• SPC: SPC has a core made of limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers. This composition makes it extremely durable and rigid.

• WPC: Core Material: WPC consists of a core made from wood fibers or wood flour mixed with polyvinyl chloride and plasticizers.

 2. Durability 

• SPC: More durable and resistant to heavy traffic and impact due to its stone composition.

• WPC: Durability: WPC is durable but not as hard as SPC. It is more prone to dents and damage from heavy objects.

3. Comfort and Insulation

• SPC: Comfort: Rigid and firm underfoot, which may be less comfortable for standing over long periods.
• Insulation: Provides good sound insulation but not as much as WPC.

• WPC: Comfort: Softer and warmer underfoot due to the wood content, making it more comfortable to walk on and stand for long periods.
• Insulation: Better sound and heat insulation compared to SPC because of its foam-like core structure.

 4. Water Resistance

• SPC: Water Resistance: Highly water-resistant, making it ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

•  WPC: Water Resistance: Also water-resistant but slightly less so compared to SPC. Suitable for areas prone to moisture.

 5. Thickness and Installation

SPC: 

 Thickness: Typically thinner than WPC, with a standard range of 3.2mm to 7mm.

  Installation: Easier to install over uneven subfloors due to its rigid core. Often features a click-lock installation system.

WPC:

  Thickness: Thicker than SPC, with a standard range of 5mm to 8mm.

  installation: May require more attention to subfloor preparation due to its slightly softer core. Also commonly uses a click-lock installation system.

 6. Cost

•  SPC: Generally less expensive than WPC because of the stone content and manufacturing process.
•  WPC: Tends to be more expensive due to the wood fibers and additional manufacturing steps required.

SPC vs WPC: Which Is The Best?

So, how do you make a choice? SPC may be your best option if your house or place of business experiences high foot traffic, wetness, and the requirement for a really durable solution. It's comparable to a dependable, capable companion who can manage a challenge. However, WPC can be the best option if you're searching for warmth and a floor that feels more "homey" while yet being durable.

Due to its superior lifespan and water resistance, SPC and WPC flooring may be used in a variety of settings. Your choice might just boil down to where you need the flooring and what feel you prefer underfoot.

Wrap Up

Still feeling stuck between SPC vs WPC? Why not drop by BuildMyPlace, where you can explore our range of SPC and WPC flooring options? Better yet, use our handy video call feature to chat with a consultant and get personalized advice tailored to your space and style preferences. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the main difference between SPC and WPC flooring?
A. SPC flooring features a rigid limestone-PVC core for high durability, while WPC flooring offers a softer, wood-pulp composite core for comfort.

Q: Can SPC and WPC flooring be used in commercial settings?
A: Both are great for commercial use; SPC is ideal for high-traffic areas, whereas WPC is better for comfort in places like boutiques.

Q:  Are SPC and WPC floors suitable for kitchens and bathrooms?
A. Yes, their excellent water resistance makes both SPC and WPC ideal choices for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Q: How do I maintain and clean SPC or WPC flooring?
A: Simple sweeping and damp mopping with a mild cleaner are sufficient, as both types are stain-resistant and easy to maintain.