SPC, PVC, WPC, LVT -Which One Is More Suitable For You

Product Definition

SPC, PVC, WPC, and LVT are resilient flooring systems engineered with polymer-based cores. Each solution balances durability, dimensional stability, comfort, and cost differently, making them suitable for distinct residential, commercial, and engineering applications depending on load, moisture, and installation conditions.

Technical Parameters and Specifications

Although these flooring types share surface similarities, their technical specifications vary significantly.

• Total thickness: 3.5–8.0 mm

• Wear layer thickness: 0.2–0.7 mm

• Density range: 1,400–2,100 kg/m³ (SPC highest)

• Dimensional stability: ≤0.15%

• Slip resistance: R9–R11

• Fire rating: Bfl-s1 (typical)

• Formaldehyde emission: Not detected / compliant with E0

• Sound reduction (with IXPE/EVA): 16–22 dB

Structure and Material Composition

Each flooring category uses a layered composite design, but with different core formulations.

• SPC (Stone Plastic Composite)

• UV coating

• Wear layer

• Decor film

• Rigid stone-plastic core (calcium carbonate + PVC)

• Attached underlayment (optional)

• WPC (Wood Plastic Composite)

• Wear layer

• Decor layer

• Foamed wood-plastic core

• Stability backing

• PVC Flooring

• Homogeneous or heterogeneous PVC layers

• Flexible structure

• LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile)

• Thin vinyl layers

• Flexible or semi-rigid core

Manufacturing Process

Despite material differences, the manufacturing processes share core engineering steps.

1. Raw material batching and formulation

2. High-temperature extrusion or calendering

3. Core sheet forming and cooling

4. Decor film lamination

5. Wear layer fusion

6. UV curing and surface treatment

7. Precision cutting and profiling

8. Quality inspection and packaging

Industry Comparison

Application Scenarios

Different end users select flooring types based on project constraints and performance priorities.

• Distributors supplying retail and wholesale flooring markets

• EPC contractors for offices, hospitals, and schools

• Hospitality projects requiring acoustic comfort

• Residential developers seeking waterproof solutions

• Renovation projects with uneven subfloors

Core Pain Points and Solutions

• Subfloor flatness issues: SPC rigid core bridges minor imperfections

• Moisture exposure: PVC-based systems provide full water resistance

• Acoustic comfort: WPC and LVT offer better footfall noise reduction

• Installation speed: Click systems reduce labor time

Risk Warnings and Mitigation Advice

• Overly flexible floors may telegraph subfloor defects

• Low-density cores reduce impact resistance

• Improper expansion gaps can cause buckling

• Incorrect adhesive selection affects PVC/LVT longevity

Procurement and Selection Guide

1. Define usage intensity and load requirements

2. Evaluate moisture and temperature exposure

3. Select rigid or flexible core accordingly

4. Confirm wear layer thickness

5. Check fire and emission compliance

6. Assess installation method and labor cost

7. Request samples and technical documentation

Engineering Case Application

A commercial office renovation project selected SPC flooring (5.0 mm, 0.5 mm wear layer) across 12,000 m² due to uneven concrete substrates. Installation time was reduced by 30%, and no dimensional deformation was recorded after two years of service.

FAQ

• Q1: Which is the most rigid flooring? A: SPC.

• Q2: Which offers the best comfort underfoot? A: WPC.

• Q3: Is PVC flooring suitable for wet areas? A: Yes.

• Q4: Can SPC be installed without adhesive? A: Yes.

• Q5: Is LVT suitable for commercial use? A: Yes, with adequate wear layer.

• Q6: Which is best for uneven floors? A: SPC.

• Q7: Does WPC expand with heat? A: Less than traditional wood.

• Q8: Are these floors recyclable? A: Partially, depending on formulation.

• Q9: What is the typical lifespan? A: 10–25 years.

• Q10: Are these floors VOC compliant? A: Yes, when certified.

Call to Action

For project-specific recommendations, technical datasheets, pricing structures, or material samples, procurement teams and contractors are encouraged to submit a formal inquiry for professional evaluation.

E-E-A-T Author Credentials

This article is authored by a flooring systems engineering specialist with over a decade of experience in resilient flooring manufacturing, specification consulting, and international B2B project supply across commercial and residential markets.