LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) and SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) vinyl are both popular types of rigid core luxury vinyl flooring, but they have key differences in composition, durability, and performance. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Core Composition
- LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile/Plank)
- Typically has a flexible PVC (vinyl) core.
- Some LVT variants may include a WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) core, which is lighter and softer underfoot.
- More flexible than SPC, making it slightly more comfortable to walk on.
- SPC (Stone Plastic Composite)
- Has a rigid core made of limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and stabilizers.
- Much denser and harder than LVT due to the stone-based composition.
- Resistant to indentation.
2. Durability & Stability
- LVT
- Good durability but can dent under heavy furniture or sharp impacts.
- More prone to expansion/contraction in extreme temperature changes (though still stable compared to traditional vinyl).
- SPC
- More durable against heavy impacts, furniture legs, and high heels due to its stone core.
- Highly stable in temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for areas with extreme heat or cold (like sunrooms, basements, or outdoor patios).
3. Thickness & Comfort
- LVT
- Usually thicker (5mm–8mm), providing a softer, more cushioned feel underfoot.
- Better for residential spaces where comfort is a priority.
- SPC
- Thinner (3.5mm–6mm) but denser, making it feel harder underfoot.
- Less forgiving on joints if standing for long periods, but better for commercial/high-traffic areas.
4. Installation
- Both typically use click-lock (floating floor) systems, making DIY installation easy.
- SPC’s rigidity can make it slightly easier to install on uneven subfloors.
5. Best Use Cases
- Choose LVT if:
- You want a softer, more comfortable feel (e.g., bedrooms, living rooms).
- You prefer a wider variety of design options (some LVTs have more realistic textures).
- Choose SPC if:
- You need cost effective (e.g., commercial spaces, heavy furniture).
- You’re installing in areas with temperature extremes (e.g., basements, sunrooms, garages).
Summary Table
Feature | LVT Vinyl | SPC Vinyl |
Core Material | PVC (flexible) or WPC | Stone powder + PVC (rigid) |
Durability | Good, but can dent | Excellent, resists dents, brittle |
Thickness | Thicker (5mm–8mm) | Thinner (3.5mm–6mm) |
Comfort | Softer underfoot | Harder, less cushioning |
Stability | Good, but expands slightly | Extremely stable in heat/cold and dry climate, not suitable in humid environments |
Water Resistance | 100% waterproof | 100% waterproof |
Best For | Residential, comfort-focused areas | High-traffic, extreme temps, commercial |