SPC and WPC are both rigid-core vinyl floors, and both are sold as an upgrade from laminate in wet areas. The difference is the core: SPC uses a limestone and PVC compound, WPC uses a wood-plastic composite. That single change affects weight, stability, underfoot feel and cost.
How the cores differ
| Property | SPC | WPC |
|---|---|---|
| Core | Limestone + PVC | Wood flour + PVC |
| Typical thickness | 3.5–6 mm | 5.5–8 mm |
| Weight | Heavier per square meter | Lighter |
| Underfoot feel | Firm, hard | Softer, warmer |
| Dimensional stability | High | Good, but more sensitive to heat |
| Water resistance | Core does not absorb water | Core resists water; joints still matter |
| Cost | Usually lower for the same wear layer | Higher |
Where SPC wins
SPC is the default for high-traffic retail, rental units and rooms where the floor will see water. The dense core holds its shape, the click profile stays tight under load, and the board handles temperature changes in glazed spaces better than a softer composite. It is also the cheaper way to reach a given wear layer.
Where WPC wins
WPC is chosen when comfort and acoustics matter more than cost: apartments above a neighbour, hotel rooms, senior housing. The thicker, softer core absorbs sound and feels warmer underfoot. The trade-off is weight, price and a greater sensitivity to sustained heat.
What to confirm before ordering
- Wear layer in both mil and mm;
- Underlay type and thickness, attached or separate;
- Click profile and whether the factory has changed it;
- MOQ per decor and packing;
- Documents for your market.
If you are comparing quotes, compare the same wear layer and the same underlay. A WPC quote against an SPC quote at a different wear layer is not a comparison.
FAQ
Is WPC waterproof?
Neither SPC nor WPC should be described as waterproof for a whole installation. Both cores resist water; the joints, the subfloor and the installation decide how a spill behaves.
Which is better for underfloor heating?
Both can be used with underfloor heating when the manufacturer’s limits are followed. Confirm the maximum surface temperature and the underlay with the supplier.
Why is WPC more expensive?
The composite core costs more to produce and the board is usually thicker. The difference is real, but compare the same wear layer and underlay.
Next step
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