Comparison 1 min read

SPC vs LVT – Which Is Better?

SPC is a type of LVT with a rigid core. What that changes in practice, and which one suits your room.

SPC core

Rigid

Flexible LVT

Usually glue down

Subfloor tolerance

Better with SPC

Underfloor heating

Both suitable

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Clearing up the name first

SPC is not an alternative to LVT. It is a kind of LVT. Luxury vinyl tile describes the category, and SPC describes a rigid core version of it.

When people compare the two they usually mean rigid core SPC against traditional flexible vinyl. That is a real and useful comparison, and it comes down to what the core does.

Good to know: Our BML range is SPC, sold as click flooring and click floor tiles, and it sits in the LVT category.

What the core changes

Four practical differences, and they all trace back to rigidity.

Subfloor tolerance

A rigid board bridges small imperfections. Flexible vinyl follows whatever is underneath it, so it needs a smoother base.

Fitting

SPC is normally click fitted and floating. Flexible LVT is normally glued down.

Underfoot

SPC feels firmer and slightly harder. Flexible LVT feels softer and quieter.

Temperature stability

A rigid core moves less with heat, which suits conservatories and rooms with a lot of glass.

Which suits your room

The room usually decides, not the specification sheet.

Imperfect subfloor

SPC. It bridges more, though it does not make preparation optional.

You want to fit it yourself

SPC click is the more forgiving of the two to lay.

Comfort and quiet matter

Flexible LVT glued down feels softer underfoot and transmits less sound.

Conservatory or a lot of glass

SPC handles the temperature swing better.

What they share

Most of what people like about LVT applies to both, and so do most of the requirements.

Both handle water well

Which is why the category ends up in kitchens, bathrooms and utility rooms.

Both suit underfloor heating

Glue down is the better performer of the two methods over a heated screed.

Both need a clean subfloor

Grit under either becomes a permanent bump.

Both need 5% to 7% for waste

Order the allowance with the floor rather than afterwards.

Compare them in your own room

The difference is mostly underfoot rather than in a photograph. Order one of each and walk on them.

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