Have you started a flooring project that’s left you feeling completely overwhelmed by the options? Vinyl flooring is just one option within a vast array of flooring materials. You’ve got hardwood, tiles, concrete, carpet and so on and so forth. Honestly, if you’ve managed to whittle the list down to just vinyl options, well done!

That being said, there is more than one kind of vinyl to consider. PVC and SPC are two of the more popular choices, specifically for rooms prone to moisture (think bathrooms and kitchens).

Understanding the composition: What exactly are they?

Sheets of PVC white cladding.

What is PVC flooring?

PVC (or polyvinyl chloride) is a kind of vinyl flooring made solely of polyvinyl chloride. Polyvinyl chloride is the main ingredient of most kinds of vinyl flooring, which is why the term PVC is used interchangeably with all kinds of vinyl flooring. However, there are some differences between vinyl made purely of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other kinds of vinyl.

What is SPC flooring?

SPC (or stone plastic composite) is a kind of flooring made with a blend of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilisers. By mixing the materials, you’re left with a sturdy core layer that gives SPC a strength comparable to genuine hardwood flooring.

A side-by-side comparison: Features, benefits and drawbacks

The aim of this comparison is to arm you with all the information you need to decide whether PCV or SPC will work better for you, your space, and your budget. Let’s start with the technical stuff:

Product specifications

Product feature PCV  SPC 
Composition  100% Polyvinyl Chloride core Stone (limestone powder) and plastic (PVC) composite core
Finish Wide variety of patterns, colours, and textures, including wood and stone effects. Wide variety of patterns, colours, and textures, including wood and stone effects.
Colour options Extensive. Extensive. 
Strength  It’s less dense & more flexible, making it prone to dents and wear. It’s rigid and highly dense, offering superior strength and impact resistance.

 

Now that you have a good understanding of the product specifications of each kind of flooring, it’s time to look into the practical stuff. Choosing the right flooring means understanding what kind of foot traffic, furniture, and moisture levels it can withstand. It’s also important to consider the cost of the flooring.

The practical stuff

Product feature PCV  SPC 
Durability Moderate; typically 5–10 year lifespan in low-traffic areas. High; designed for heavy traffic and commercial use, often lasting 20–25 years.
Flexibility High; can be more forgiving when laid over slightly uneven subfloors. Low (rigid). Requires a perfectly level subfloor for proper installation.
Moister-resistance  Water-resistant, but not 100% waterproof if water is left standing for long periods of time.  100% waterproof. The rigid core does not swell, warp, or degrade when exposed to water.
Feel underfoot Softer, warmer, and more comfortable. Better sound dampening. Harder and cooler underfoot. Less comfortable without an underlayment.
Cost  Generally more budget-friendly (cheaper upfront cost). Generally more expensive due to its superior durability and composition.

The verdict: Choosing the right floor for your project

Choosing between PVC and SPC ultimately comes down to your space’s function, the traffic it’ll endure, and the kind of underfoot feel you prefer.

When to go for PVC flooring

PVC is the ideal choice when your budget and comfort are the main priorities. If you are fitting flooring in a space with low foot traffic, such as a bedroom, bathroom, study, or low-use rental unit, PVC offers an affordable, soft, and warmer solution underfoot. Its flexibility also means it can be slightly easier to lay over a subfloor that isn't perfectly flat.

White bedroom interior with light grey oak slat wall panelling and pastel green and pink bed coverings.

When to go for SPC flooring

Go for SPC when durability and stability are non-negotiable. This flooring shines in high-moisture and high-traffic environments, making it perfect for wet rooms, kitchens, basements and utility rooms. This is not to say that PVC cannot be used in wet areas, as it is water-resistant, however SPC is slightly more durable.

Furthermore, SPC’s rigid stone core is highly resistant to dents, scratches, and, crucially, expansion/contraction from temperature changes. If you have pets, kids, or are looking for a long-term investment that mimics high-end finishes, SPC is the clear winner.

Interior of modern bathroom with dark gray walls, wooden floor, comfortable white bathtub standing near panoramic window and shower stall with glass doors.

FAQs

Is SPC or PVC flooring better for bathrooms and kitchens?

While both are good options for bathrooms and kitchens, SPC flooring is generally considered the better choice. This is because SPC is genuinely 100% waterproof due to its dense, rigid core. While PVC is water-resistant, if water is left standing for long periods of time, it can potentially cause warping or peeling. For guaranteed peace of mind in high-moisture areas, SPC offers superior performance.

If water gets under SPC flooring, will it be damaged or swell?

No, SPC flooring will not be damaged or swell. The key benefit of SPC is its stone-plastic composite core, which is non-porous and impermeable. This means the material itself cannot absorb water, swell, or warp, even when submerged.

Can SPC flooring withstand heavy furniture, such as large cabinets or appliances?

Yes, absolutely. The rigid, high-density core of SPC flooring is engineered to handle heavy loads without denting. Its superior resistance to dents and impacts makes it an excellent choice for areas where you plan to install heavy fixtures like kitchen cabinets, refrigerators, or washing machines. Traditional flexible PVC flooring is much more susceptible to permanent indentations from heavy items.

Which is the more budget-friendly option: SPC or PVC/LVT?

PVC (often referred to as LVT or LVP in its flexible form) is the more budget-friendly option upfront. SPC's enhanced composition and durability mean it comes with a higher initial price tag. However, SPC's superior longevity (20+ years) may make it a better long-term investment, as it will likely require replacement less often than PVC.

What are the biggest downsides and weaknesses of traditional PVC (LVT/LVP) flooring?

The main weaknesses of traditional PVC flooring include:

  • Lower Durability: It is softer and more prone to scratches and dents from sharp objects or heavy furniture.
  • Temperature Sensitivity: It is more susceptible to expanding or contracting with extreme temperature fluctuations, which can sometimes lead to warping or buckling.
  • Water-Resistance Limitation: While resistant, it is not truly 100% waterproof if water continually breaches the seams.