LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring is a type of vinyl flooring that is typically made up of several layers, including a printed design layer, a clear wear layer, and a flexible vinyl backing layer. LVT flooring is designed to look and feel like natural materials, such as stone or hardwood, but with added benefits such as water resistance, durability, and ease of maintenance. LVT flooring is typically thinner and more flexible than SPC flooring, making it easier to install and work with.

SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) vinyl flooring is a type of vinyl flooring that is made up of a core layer of stone and plastic composite material, topped with a printed design layer, a clear wear layer, and a rigid vinyl backing layer. SPC flooring is designed to be extremely durable and stable, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and environments where moisture and temperature changes are common. SPC flooring is typically thicker and more rigid than LVT flooring, making it more difficult to install in certain situations.

In terms of durability and stability, SPC flooring is generally considered to be superior to LVT flooring due to its thicker, more rigid construction. SPC flooring is also typically more water-resistant than LVT flooring, making it a better choice for areas prone to moisture and spills. However, LVT flooring is often more affordable and easier to install than SPC flooring, making it a popular choice for DIY projects and budget-conscious homeowners.

Overall, the choice between LVT and SPC flooring depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you need a highly durable and stable floor that can withstand heavy use and moisture, SPC flooring may be the best option for you. However, if you are looking for a more affordable and flexible flooring option that can be easily installed in a variety of environments, LVT flooring may be the better choice.

What is LVT Flooring Made From?

LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile, which is a type of resilient flooring made from a blend of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other materials such as plasticizers, stabilizers, and pigments. The exact composition of the material can vary by manufacturer, but LVT typically consists of several layers. The top layer is a protective wear layer that provides scratch resistance and durability. The design layer is where the visual pattern or design is printed, often to resemble natural materials like wood or stone. The core layer provides stability and impact resistance, and can be made from either PVC or other materials like fiberglass or high-density foam. Finally, the backing layer provides additional support and helps to absorb sound. Overall, LVT is a versatile and durable flooring option that can be installed in a wide range of settings, including residential and commercial spaces.

What is SPC Flooring Made From?

SPC flooring, also known as Stone Plastic Composite flooring, is made from a mixture of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and stabilizers. The limestone powder makes up a majority of the core layer, which is then combined with PVC powder and other stabilizers to create a rigid and durable core. The top layer of SPC flooring is a printed vinyl layer with a protective wear layer that provides the look and feel of natural materials like wood or stone. The layers are compressed under high pressure and temperature to create a solid, waterproof, and dimensionally stable plank or tile. SPC flooring is known for its strength, stability, and resistance to wear, impact, and moisture. It is also eco-friendly and free of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. A variety of backing alternatives are also available, including EVA, corkwood, and IXPE foam.

Product: Richmond Prime Oak

Which is Waterproof?

LVT is naturally water-resistant, but it isn’t waterproof. You can purchase waterproof varieties, however. SPC floors are 100% waterproof, allowing them to be installed in practically any area of the home.

Comparing Durability

SPC is more resistant to dents and other sorts of damage. It will last longer and withstand wear better. The hardness of SPC allows for more support underfoot, but the pliability of LVT offers a softer, more comfortable walking experience. SPC is also thicker than LVT and has a more realistic texture.

While SPC is naturally more durable, LVT still provides excellent value for money. Some of the more expensive varieties will last for one or two decades with minimal maintenance. Both types of floors are often installed in commercial properties such as hair salons, cafes and restaurants, as they can withstand heavy traffic.

Installing LVT vs SPC Flooring

LVT floors comes in either Glue-down or click system installation varieties. SPC floors are always installed via a click system. This is the easiest installation method you can follow, which means you should be able to do it completely by yourself. Glue-down LVT takes a little more work to install, but it is still simple enough to do yourself.

Because of its rigid structure, SPC has a few advantages. While they can lay both over almost any solid subfloor, LVT requires that the subfloor be absolutely level and devoid of dents, and obstacles. The flexible material will conform to any irregularities, whereas the SPC will maintain its shape should the subfloor not be snooker table flat and will allow a little tolerance.

Room Suitability

LVT and SPC floors can be installed in any area of the home. However, make sure if you are installing an LVT floor in the bathroom, that it is a fully waterproof variety and you properly prepare the subfloor to make sure it is all watertight.

Product: Richmond Classic LVT Cherry Oak 

Comparing Insulation

Both LVT and SPC floors offer excellent insulation. They can both be installed with an underfloor heating system, and they are relatively warm to the touch. LVT may be a little noisier underfoot, but you can install a soundproofing underlay to reduce the amount of noise produced.

LVT & SPC Styles & Effects

LVT and SPC floors offer a huge range of styles and effects. These include wood, stone, and abstract designs. As SPC floors are one of the newest types to be introduced onto the market, there aren’t quite as many different styles as LVT just yet. However, new designs and effects are consistently being added to the market.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

It's always a good idea to speak with a flooring expert to help you decide which type of vinyl flooring is best for your specific needs. They can take into account your budget, lifestyle, and the specific room where the flooring will be installed. By doing so, they can help you choose the best option that will last the longest and meet all of your needs.

Further Browsing

You can view SPC flooring here.
You can view LVT flooring here.