The Benefits of SPC Flooring Over Traditional LVT: Why It’s a Superior Choice
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) has long been a popular choice for modern flooring, especially for luxury vinyl tile bathroom and kitchen luxury vinyl tile installations. However, a newer option, Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) flooring, has started to take the spotlight. While both LVT and SPC offer impressive durability and design versatility, SPC has specific features that set it apart, making it a preferred choice in many situations. In this post, we’ll explore the key benefits of SPC flooring over traditional LVT tile and why it’s becoming the go-to option for homeowners and commercial spaces alike.
Superior Durability and Strength
SPC flooring is crafted from a mixture of limestone and plastic, making it denser and more rigid than traditional LVT. This increased rigidity provides SPC with exceptional strength and impact resistance, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and commercial spaces. Unlike traditional LVT, which can sometimes dent or show wear over time, SPC holds up exceptionally well under heavy furniture and constant foot traffic, especially when compared to the best luxury vinyl tile options.
100% Waterproof
Both LVT and SPC are considered waterproof, but SPC takes this feature to the next level. Its stone-based core makes SPC completely impervious to moisture, so it won’t swell or warp in high-humidity environments. This makes SPC an ideal option for areas like LVT in bathroom, laundry rooms, basements, and kitchens. If you’re looking for a floor that can handle wet environments without any compromise, SPC is the clear winner over even the best LVT for kitchen.
Enhanced Dimensional Stability
One of the main drawbacks of traditional LVT is its tendency to expand or contract due to changes in temperature and humidity. SPC, with its dense stone core, offers enhanced dimensional stability, meaning it is much less prone to expansion or contraction. This makes SPC flooring ideal for areas with fluctuating temperatures, such as sunrooms, and for climates with drastic seasonal changes. You won’t have to worry about gaps or buckling with SPC flooring, which is a significant advantage over LVT.
Rigid Core for Added Support
The rigid core of SPC flooring gives it a firmer feel underfoot compared to traditional LVT. This sturdiness provides better support, especially in areas where you may be standing for long periods, such as kitchens or workshops. Despite the rigid core, SPC still offers enough comfort due to its layered construction, with a wear layer and often a foam backing that ensures some cushioning. For those looking to install kitchen luxury vinyl tile, SPC offers a more supportive option.
Easier Installation on Uneven Subfloors
Thanks to its rigid core, SPC can be installed on a wider range of subfloors, even those that are slightly uneven. While LVT requires a smooth and level surface for installation, SPC’s sturdy construction can hide minor imperfections in the subfloor. This makes it a great option for renovations, as it may reduce the need for expensive floor preparation work. SPC is also available in click-lock systems, which make installation fast and DIY-friendly, even in areas where luxury vinyl tile might require more preparation.
Scratch and Dent Resistance
While traditional LVT offers good scratch resistance, SPC flooring tends to perform better in this category. The stone plastic core provides additional protection against dents and scratches from heavy furniture, dropped objects, or sharp items. If you have pets or young children, SPC flooring is a great option for maintaining a pristine appearance in spite of everyday wear and tear.
Improved Sound Insulation
Another benefit of SPC flooring over traditional LVT is its sound-absorbing properties. Many SPC products come with attached underlayment, which provides better sound insulation compared to LVT. This is especially important for multi-level homes, apartments, or commercial spaces where reducing noise transfer between floors is essential. SPC’s dense structure also helps to muffle footstep sounds, creating a quieter environment overall.
Environmental Friendliness
SPC flooring is often made with eco-friendly materials, including the limestone powder that forms its core. Some brands offer SPC flooring that is low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and free from harmful chemicals, making it a safer and greener choice for your home. This can make SPC flooring a good option for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint while still enjoying the benefits of a high-performance floor.
Cost-Effective Long-Term Investment
While SPC flooring may have a slightly higher upfront cost compared to traditional LVT, its superior durability and resistance to moisture and damage make it a better long-term investment. Since SPC is less likely to need repairs or replacements, especially in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas, you’ll save money over time. Its ability to handle daily wear without sacrificing appearance also means it will maintain its value longer than LVT.
Conclusion
SPC flooring offers several clear advantages over traditional LVT, including superior durability, enhanced stability, and better water and impact resistance. Its rigid core design makes it suitable for a variety of environments, including high-traffic commercial spaces and moisture-prone areas in the home. Whether you’re renovating a luxury vinyl tile bathroom, upgrading your kitchen with best LVT for kitchen, or looking for a durable option for a business space, SPC flooring is a smart and reliable solution.