Luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) is superior to traditional vinyl because of its strength. LVF is made up of multiple layers to enhance its look and resilience:

• Bottom/Base Layer: Provides support or additional underlayment
• Core: Gives stability and dent resistance
• Decorative Pattern: Printed image or texture that gives the floor its look
• Wear Layer: Protects the decorative pattern
• UV Layer/Top Coating: Protects wear layer from damage and fading
  
  

Top of the line LVF uses a rigid core instead of a more pliable core. Rigid core vinyl flooring offers more durability and protection and can allow for an easier installation. A rigid core adds more thickness and density to LVF, making it perform closer to laminate or engineered hardwood. Rigid core LVF can also make the floor feel more comfortable underfoot.

There are two types of rigid core luxury vinyl flooring. WPC flooring and SPC flooring. Both offer LVF the benefits of a rigid core, but slight differences can make one version more appealing depending on the floor’s purpose.

• Wood Polymer (or Plastic) Composite: The first rigid core flooring to appear on the market, the core of WPC flooring is made up of wood or wood-like materials, a foaming agent and other PVC fillers.
• Stone Polymer (or Plastic) Composite: Considered to be an upgrade to WPC, SPC flooring is made up of limestone and PVC fillers. SPC flooring is denser and more durable compared to WPC.
  
  

A change in cores can greatly affect the feel and performance of luxury vinyl flooring.

• SPC flooring is thinner than WPC floors.
• SPC floors are more resistant to dents and drops than WPC flooring.
• WPC flooring is thicker and more comfortable underfoot because of its foaming agents.
• WPC flooring feels warmer than SPC and is good at absorbing sound.
  
  

Remember that choosing between SPC and WPC only affects the core layer. The other attributes of rigid core luxury vinyl flooring aren’t affected by choosing one core over the other.

• Waterproof flooring. Choosing rigid core LVF gives you floors that are extremely water-resistant or waterproof.
• Durability. Even though SPC is more durable than WPC, both floors are strong enough to withstand heavy floor traffic and pets.
• Installation. Both floor types are easy to install over imperfect subfloors and can be a DIY project.
• Style. A wide range of styles, patterns and looks that resemble natural flooring are available.
• Wear layer. While WPC and SPC are durable, homeowners must look at the thickness of the wear layer—the finish that protects the decorative pattern of LVF.
  
  

With so many similarities between SPC and WPC, here are some things to consider when choosing between the two.

• SPC can be slightly cheaper than WPC.
• SPC can be tougher to cut during installation.
• SPC is generally seen in commercial settings vs. WPC in residential settings.
• WPC help insulate rooms.
• WPC can make rooms more comfortable to walk in, especially if you’ll be on your feet for long periods of time.

SPC can provide extra protection in rooms that have a risk for drops, like kitchens, workshops or workout rooms.

If you’re looking for a professional contractor for your floor finish needs, consider a Bona Certified Craftsman®. These professionals are trained in all Bona® floor systems and can give your floors the look you want and the protection you from toxic alternatives. Find a Bona Certified Craftsman near you.