One of the latest luxury vinyl products is rigid core luxury vinyl flooring, which is a type of luxury vinyl flooring comprised of a more solid or “rigid” core for added durability. Rigid core luxury vinyl is a format with a click locking installation system.

Two types of rigid core luxury vinyl are Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) and Wood Plastic Composite (WPC). When it comes to SPC vs. WPC flooring, there are differences between the two that should be considered when deciding which will work best for your space or interior design project.

SPC, short for stone plastic composite, boasts a unique core composition of approximately 60% calcium carbonate (limestone), polyvinyl chloride, and plasticizers. The combination results in a thin, yet exceptionally dense, core. It delivers unmatched resilience and complete waterproofing to the flooring planks while offering a perfect balance of strength and versatility for numerous applications.

WPC, or wood plastic composite, refers to a flooring material with a core composition typically including polyvinyl chloride, calcium carbonate, plasticizers, a foaming agent, and wood-like materials such as wood flour. The wood material now often features wood-like plasticizers.

In order to better understand the similarities and differences between SPC and WPC, it is helpful to look at the following quantifiable qualities: Look & Style, Durability & Stability, Applications, and Cost.

Look & Style:

Both SPC and WPC flooring offer a wide range of designs and styles, including realistic wood and stone looks. However, WPC flooring may have a slight edge in terms of mimicking the natural appearance of wood due to the inclusion of wood flour in its composition.

Durability & Stability:

SPC flooring is known for its exceptional durability and stability. Its dense core makes it highly resistant to impacts, dents, and scratches. On the other hand, WPC flooring is also durable but may not be as dense as SPC. It may be more susceptible to indentations and scratches, particularly in high-traffic areas.

Applications:

Both SPC and WPC flooring are suitable for residential and commercial applications. However, SPC flooring’s superior density and rigidity make it more suitable for high-traffic areas where heavy furniture or equipment may be present. It is also a better choice for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.