Superior SPC Flooring: The Ultimate Upgrade Over LVP Options

What is SPC Flooring?

SPC flooring, which stands for Stone Plastic Composite, is a type of luxury vinyl flooring that is designed to be an upgrade over standard LVP (luxury vinyl plank) flooring. Some key features of 6.5 mm SPC flooring that make it superior to LVP include:

Dent and Scratch Resistance

The durable construction of SPC flooring makes it more resistant to dents and scratches compared to cheaper LVP options. The 6.5 mm thickness provides enough rigidity to prevent indentations from heavy furniture or high traffic areas. SPC is composed of calcium carbonate stone particles fused in a plastic composite, creating an extremely durable core layer.

Waterproof Properties

SPC flooring has waterproof properties that allow it to resist water damage in areas prone to spills or leaks like kitchens and bathrooms. The stone plastic composite core layer prevents moisture from seeping through even if cracks or scratches penetrate the vinyl wear layer on top.

Longer, Wider Planks

SPC flooring utilizes longer and wider planks during installation for a more seamless, high-end appearance. Plank lengths can range anywhere from 18 inches to 72 inches, while widths typically span 5-8 inches. This provides a cleaner look and better durability.

Benefits of 6.5 mm SPC Flooring

There are many great reasons to choose SPC over other hard surface floor options:

Affordability

6.5 mm SPC flooring is on average cheaper than hardwood floors or porcelain tile when material and installation costs are factored together. SPC provides the look and feel of a more premium floor for less expense.

Easy Maintenance

Keeping SPC floors clean is simple with everyday sweeping and damp mopping. The rigid wear layer resists scratching and scuffing during routine upkeep. There is no need for refinishing or waxing either.

Comfort Underfoot

The rigid stone plastic composite layer with attached padding in 6.5 mm SPC creates a comfortable surface to walk, play, workout, or stand on for long periods of time. It has more give than harder floors.

Sound Absorption

SPC absorbs sound better than wood or tile, making it suitable even for condo or apartment use. When properly underlayment is used, SPC flooring can achieve high ratings for impact sound transmission.

SPC vs. LVP Flooring Comparison

When researching new floors, many homeowners find themselves trying to choose between SPC and LVP options. Here’s how they stack up:

Durability

SPC flooring is significantly more scratch, stain, and dent-resistant than even the highest end LVP floors. Drop a heavy brick on SPC and it is less likely to be damaged.

Looks

With deeper embossing and grains, more realistic visuals, and longer planks, SPC flooring achieves a more natural wood look that aligns closer with hardwood aesthetics.

Underfoot Feel

Attached underlayment makes SPC feel softer and bouncier than most LVP floors which have no padding. LVP feels harder and echoes more noise.

Price

There is often overlap, but overall SPC flooring sits at a higher price point than LVP on average. The upgrade in features usually justifies the extra cost per square foot.

Pro Tips for Installing 6.5 mm SPC Flooring

Proper installation is key to maximizing the benefits of SPC flooring. Keep these tips in mind:

Acclimate the Flooring

Let SPC flooring adjust to room temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installing. This helps prevent expansion issues down the road.

Include Underlayment

Using underlayment under 6.5 mm SPC helps smooth out minor subfloor imperfections, absorbs sound better, and makes the floor more comfortable to walk on.

Avoid Unnecessary Transition Strips

Leverage the long plank lengths available in SPC to reduce seams and transition strips between rooms. This enhances visual appeal.

Follow Manufacturer Spacing Guidelines

Leave proper contraction and expansion spacing around the edges of rooms when installing SPC flooring. This prevents buckling or gapping issues long-term.

The Takeaway on 6.5 mm SPC Flooring

SPC flooring represents the future of luxury vinyl plank flooring. With superior dent, scratch, stain, fade and water resistance compared to LVP - combined with more realistic wood visuals - SPC offers homeowners an attractive and high-performing flooring option perfect for any room.

FAQs

What thickness of SPC flooring is best?

The most popular and recommended thickness for SPC flooring is 6 or 6.5mm. This provides the ideal balance of durability, comfort, and flexibility for installation.

Does SPC flooring need underlayment?

It is highly recommended to install SPC flooring over underlayment. This helps smooth out subfloor imperfections, absorb sound for a quieter floor, and add comfort underfoot.

Can you install SPC flooring over existing floors?

In most cases, yes. SPC flooring can be installed over existing flooring like vinyl, linoleum, or hardwood provided the subfloor is flat, clean, and dry first.

Is SPC flooring really waterproof?

Yes, SPC flooring is 100% waterproof due to the dense stone-plastic composite core and can withstand water sitting on top for over 24 hours without damage occurring underneath.