Can WPC Flooring differ from SPC Flooring?

　　Do you need flooring where you can literally throw your weight around? If it’s flooring that requires load-withstanding durability then you need to look for SPC. A floor that can work in environment that experiences light foot traffic uses WPC. SPC and WPC may be foreign terms to you but we’re about to explain these types of flooring and why they differ in application.

　　Home flooring is different from what is used at commercially high-traffic places. It all depends on the extent of foot traffic, load of furniture, and impact of travel. In this post, we’re going to talk about SPC flooring and WPC flooring, the difference between the two. By the end of this post, you will know which flooring to select without the need for a consultant.

What is SPC flooring?

　　SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite or Stone Polymer Composite. It has a set of layers that make it remarkably durable. The layers contain a luxury vinyl print that is the visually designed part of the tile. This part is mounted or covered by a wear layer that protects against scratches, is stain-resistant, and easy to clean. The layer under the luxury vinyl print is a rigid core that is 100% waterproof and it is the actual SPC core. Further at the base is the underlayment or backing layer attached. This is part is soft to the underfoot and absorbs sounds. This flooring, therefore, applies to any type of even or uneven flooring.

　　It can be used for spaces such as commercial buildings, bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Don’t be fooled by these ultra-thin-looking tiles (<6mm). They may be sleek and slim but their durability is unmatched. Initially, thicker tiles were naturally preferred as the strong option. As technology advanced, flooring designers manufactured ultra-thin, durable tiles with a rigid vinyl core.

Features of SPC flooring

　　· Waterproof: Perfect for water-prone areas. This 100% waterproof flooring is also used by business owners. If you have a pet house and/or a pet at home, this type of flooring is suited to their habits.

　　· Uneven subfloors: Heavy-duty, hard surfaces, and uneven floors are what this rigid core is meant for!

　　· Ultra-durable: As mentioned above, they are thin, very thin but super durable.

　　· Mimic natural material: You might walk into a room with wooden flooring but it’s basically vinyl. This tile can mimic a wood or stone look. This makes it an economical choice for those who can’t afford actual stone and wood.

　　· Low-maintenance: It’s easy to clean it and keep it shining throughout. For cleaning purposes, a vacuum and mop are enough.

　　· Installation: You can DIY the installation of SPC tiles and planks. They come in designs meant for interlocking or floating over the existing surface.

　　· Sturdy: Popular in commercial spaces with heavy-duty equipment, these flooring structures are meant for sturdiness more than comfort.

　　· Summer-friendly: That stone composite core holds very little heat. So, summers are the only time you would welcome cold feet. We can’t promise the same about winters.

What is WPC flooring?

　　Many people like the look of a wooden floor but can’t afford to lay one across the house. Flooring designers offer an alternate and less expensive solution – Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC). Like SPC, this flooring is 100% waterproof. However, unlike the sturdy SPC flooring, WPC comes with a foaming agent that contributes to its softness.

　　WPC flooring can be installed for homes, all rooms, bathrooms, kitchen, and basement.

　　Let’s look at its layers. Its luxury vinyl print layer comes with a realistic hardwood look, mounted by a wear layer. Underneath the vinyl layer is the Välinge 5G Interlock followed by a 100% waterproof core. The backing layer or attached underlayment for added convenience is the last or bottom layer of this plank.

Features of WPC flooring

　　· Waterproof: WPC vinyl is 100% waterproof, designed to prevent water damage to the floor.

　　· Style: Top on the trendy chart, luxury vinyl is what’s in these days because of their impeccable look of wood or stone.

　　· Installation: It is easy to install as it comes with a tongue-and-groove system that can float over your existing floor.

　　· Low-maintenance: It’s easy to clean with a sweep and a mop.

　　· Softness enhanced: With the foaming agent added to this vinyl core, the plank renders a softer touch to the foot. This does, however, increase the chances of dent formation in the event of an accident.

　　· Affordability: Compared to SPC, this type of flooring is more expensive. More and more companies are making it accessibly affordable for their customers. At the end of the day, WPC will always be cheaper than its natural wood and stone counterparts.

　　Therefore, home flooring can differ from commercial space flooring. This, however, depends on your requirements and the nature of items (heavy or lightweight) placed at the premises. Either way, now you know the difference between SPC and WPC flooring to make the right selection.