WPC and SPC vinyl are modern flooring materials that are durable and easy to maintain. WPC flooring is used as a replacement for traditional bamboo-style flooring. SPC flooring is used to protect the underlying surfaces from spillages and other accidents.
Flooring is an important factor in your home design. Choosing inappropriate flooring can make your home unpleasant. That’s why it’s important to do your research before choosing whether SPC or WPC is the best for you.
The article will discuss the differences between them according to their cost, durability, style, and more.
What Is WPC Vinyl Flooring?
WPC floors are made of high-quality, durable vinyl that is often soft to the touch. They are designed to be waterproof and stain-resistant and can be installed on any surface, including concrete, wood, and even tile.
WPC vinyl flooring is made up of three layers. The top layer is made of PVC and provides a clean and durable surface. The middle layer is made of polyethylene polymer resistant to chemicals and heat. The bottom layer is made of polypropylene that protects from moisture.
The distinguishable features of WPC flooring from SPC are that WPC floors are usually made of polyethylene or polystyrene, which are more resistant to water damage. SPC floors are made of limestone, polyvinyl chloride, and plasticizers.
What Is SPC Vinyl Flooring?
SPC is engineered through a combination of limestone and stabilizers, contributing to a distinctly durable core.
The parts of the SPC vinyl flooring are the wear layer determining how well your floors will hold up over time. Additionally, decor films are placed on top preventing scratches and fading.
The rigid core consists of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, stabilizer, and an attached underlayment providing underfoot cushioning.
The distinguishable features of this type of flooring are formaldehyde-free, fireproof, non-slip, and with high performance in sound-absorbing.
WPC vs. SPC Vinyl Flooring
The WPC and SPC flooring costs vary depending on the manufacturer. However, the general market consensus is that WPC flooring is pricier than SPC because of the increased production requirements. It’s not as easy to make as SPC flooring and utilizes more materials, such as wax and oil.
If you’re wondering which is more cost-effective, there are several different factors to consider to get a better idea. So to give you an idea, we provide a short and simple cost analysis for both.
WPC and SPC flooring usually last for 25 years. For both types, the nominal installation cost is about $4.50-5.00 per square foot or $500-600 per 10’x10’ room, making the upfront cost about the same for both types of flooring.
WPC flooring might appear more durable because it is thicker, but this is not the case. SPC floors are denser than WPC floors, so they offer better resistance to wear and tear.
WPC floors and SPC floors can both be installed anywhere with fluctuating moisture exposure and temperature. However, when it comes to extreme temperature changes, SPC flooring tends to offer superior performance. The denser core makes SPC floors more resistant to expanding and contracting compared to WPC floors.
SPC and WPC vinyl flooring types come in different colors and patterns because the designs are printed onto the vinyl layer. A lot of styles are made to look like other types of flooring.
For example, you can get a flooring product that looks like tile, stone, or hardwood flooring. There are different types of WPC and SPC flooring that can match any style.
Vinyl flooring style is a great choice when you want to add value and style to your home. SPC vinyl flooring is a great solution for any commercial or residential use.
WPC is generally used for indoor residential homes, offices, lobbies, waiting rooms, and common areas. It is also often used for outdoor applications such as patios and decks. Compared to SPC, WPC has higher moisture resistance and has long-term durability.
SPC boards are lightweight, easy to cut and install. WPC boards are also lightweight, but they need to be glued together before installation, which adds to the flooring cost.
A professional contractor should install SPC boards with flooring for the flooring material to be cut to size and then placed over the joint to provide a tight fit, which should be done before installation to avoid future issues.
WPC vs. SPC Vinyl Flooring: Final Thoughts and Considerations
When it comes to the final decision which to purchase, you’ll need to determine which will be the best option for your home or office based on your preferences and circumstances. There are many factors in choosing between these types of flooring, such as budget and durability.
It has been a constant debate for traditionalists whether WPC is the best option due to its strength and resistance, while SPC vinyl is a better option for those who want a more affordable, easy-to-install product.
WPC and SPC vinyl flooring both have their strengths and weaknesses. When deciding which is best for your home, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each carefully. WPC vinyl flooring is more water-resistant and scratch-resistant, but the latter is more resistant to heat and moisture.
WPC is a flooring material that lasts a long time. It also does not need much maintenance, which is an added benefit. SPC, on the other hand, is made of stone and recycled plastic.
WPC and SPC vinyl flooring has been in the market for more than two decades and has become a standard for many building owners and contractors. The benefits of these products include increased appearances, water resistance, and wear resistance.
WPC is the best for homeowners looking for the look of traditional hardwood without the maintenance. Meanwhile, SPC vinyl flooring is perfect for large commercial spaces or residential spaces looking for a durable flooring option.
