What is SPC Flooring? An Expert's Guide To Vinyl Plank Floors
Vinyl Planking is the latest flooring takeover that quickly became one of our customers number one go-to for its affordability and durability. But, with all the different choices available and the ever-changing technology of the Core you may need a little Floor-ification in defining all of the acronyms related to this product: SPC, WPC, LVF, LVP, LVT. Although the planks may look a lot alike from vendor-to-vendor, there are inherent differences that will help you through the process of selecting the best plank for you.
Ready? Let’s Walk The Vinyl Plank:
Luxury Vinyl Flooring ( LVF ) encompasses all of the vinyl floors: Vinyl Plank, Vinyl Tiles and Sheet Vinyl.
TOP TIP: When looking to purchase any LVF, Luxury Vinyl Flooring, look for the MIL. MIL is the top layer of all vinyl surfaces and is measured in 1/1,000 of an inch. A thicker MIL wear-layer is more resistant to scratching and denting. A 20 MIL wear-layer is suitable for commercial applications.
WHAT’S IN THE CORE OF YOUR FLOOR?
Luxury Vinyl Planks are typically constructed of four layers as follows: The top wear layer that is transparent provides the resistance to stains and scratches. Next is the vinyl layer which depicts the decorative style in realistic wood-looks or stone-looks that are printed onto the vinyl. The CORE is at the center and whether constructed of SPC or WPC, this layer gives each plank its stability and structure. The last layer is the attached underlayment or bottom layer that provides an insulating cushion and depending on your preference of plank, some vinyl planking is manufactured with or without the attached underlayment.
The latest technological advancement in Vinyl Plank is SPC : An engineered composite combining limestone and stabilizers such as bamboo dust and polymer materials giving it strength to last for years. SPC, Rigid Core LVF is the most durable of all Vinyl Plank specifically designed for commercial use, this floor is amazing for residential use as well. SPC is 100% waterproof, designed to install over uneven sub-floors, the most realistic wood-looks with embossed textures, and extremely durable.
WPC, Wood Plastic Composite, was the first of its kind in Waterproof vinyl floors that were introduced in 2017. Constructing a Core from recycled wood pulp and polymer materials, it was an “ah-ha” moment that hit the flooring industry in a wave expanding the future of flooring.
SPC vs. WPC
WHAT TO CONSIDER IN VINYL PLANK FLOORING
DURABILITY: WPC Vinyl Flooring has a thicker core than SPC Vinyl Flooring, however the SPC core is considerably denser preventing damage from impacts, dents and all-in-all can tolerate more weight.
STRUCTURE: With its thicker core, WPC is softer underfoot, sound insulating, and warmer too.
STABILITY: WPC and SPC can be used in high-moisture rooms: Bathrooms, laundry, kitchens & basements are ideal for these worry-free floors and can handle temperature fluctuations, but when it comes to extreme temperature changes, the SPC’s denser core is resistant to expanding and contracting.
CORE: Both SPC and WPC are Rigid Core Vinyl Planking that include recycled materials.
LVP: Luxury Vinyl Plank is a term referring to all SPC and WPC Vinyl Flooring.
LVT: Luxury Vinyl Tiles are a newer line of Vinyl Flooring featuring realistic stone looks.
HAVE IN COMMON: 100% Waterproof. Resists scratches & stains. Designed to install over uneven sub- floors. Affordable Family-friendly, Pet-friendly floors. Available in realistic wood and stone looks. Rated for commercial applications.