This is definitely the most accurate and detailed comparison I could find on RU-vid. It made me think that SPC flooring would be the best choice for me, living in the sunny, warm Mediterranean island of Sardinia.
We really appreciate the feedback - thank you. We are small but growing. All the best with your project. Send us a pic and we will post to our Instagram feed. 🤜🏻🤛🏻
Antonio Scalone I agree very great detailed information that I can very much appreciate as well as understand more of the terminology. Thank you for the great video.
Thanks Pippa, this is a new adventure for us and we are learning - how to vlog and film that is. You made our day with your comment. Thanks for sharing 👍🏻
Amazing review and very informative. I don't do much of flooring works, but where I'm from, most people would just call all of these as laminate. I was sure what I knew was correct (as mentioned in the video), but over time I start to question myself as to whether or not I categorized them correctly due to the fact that everyone calls them as just laminate. Thank you so much for helping me to clarify on this! Appreciate your videos. Thanks from Malaysia
Bianca, I agree with you! We'd love to help you find your ideal flooring :) check out www.bamboofamily.co.uk. We supply bamboo and SPC flooring. Ask for either myself (Joe), David or Lily :)
Best wishes, We are PT Indomas Trading, having its address at sedayu square - cengkareng, West Jakarta - Indonesia. We have a Vinyl SPC Flooring product. Quality materials make homes, offices and apartments more beautiful and comfortable. 1. Choice of models, various colors. 2. Termite resistant. 3. Can be cleaned using a floor cleaner, etc. Free shipping on Indonesia - Jakarta area with a minimum order of 10 box. Order now, to : -ARI- WA : +6282188223738. e-mail : arisendy.prasetyo@yahoo.com
Funny how I had travel all the way back home for a better explanation. Good job!! I am in Australia and here SPC they call it hybrid flooring. I didn't know whether I needed extra underlay or is it glue at installation. Thank you!!
A very good and professional video. Now we made a new type of flooring, it has SPC's many advantages, like stability, waterproof, easy click. BUT the surface is as strong as the laminate, and only 2/3 weight of the SPC flooring, perfect sunshine-resistant. We have not decided how to call it yet. If you are interested to compare it, you could get some samples from me if you send me a message.
Wow..I wish the sales people would have half of your knowledge regarding to these floors. When I ask about SPC they haven't even heard about it. I live in Europe Ireland. Thanks a lot
@@FlooringAfrica thanks for your reply!! Keep going you do an awesome work!! I'm a floor retailer and your explanation is excellent and simple to transmit!!
Thank you 🙏🏻 being in the flooring game please consider listing your business on our latest venture just started. We would love to have someone listed in South America. flooringafrica.com/about-listings/
Amazing video so informative. I think I prefer laminate due to higher UV resistance, especially when used in living areas and scratch resistance. Laminate do have water resistance coating on the surface. If if this is ever damage this most likely would be compromised.
That’s the great thing about these products... they all have their own special areas where they excel. Laminate is still a great option and cost effective too.
Wondering what you might think about spc installed horizontally in a standup shower stall. I am thinking of putting over Kerdi board. Thanks for the great flooring review!
Hi Brad. This is a common question where showers are concerned. Spc is made with PVC resins and limestone powder in most cases. While the PVC part gives the product its water resistance, the limestone, if ratios are unbalanced will absorb water. In the developing SPC market we are seeing variable grades of product that do not meet the grade as waterproof or even water resistant. In essence I’m saying, don’t do it. If the planks don’t fail, the adhesive might. Thanks for watching, appreciate your support 🤜🏻🤛🏻
Very informative review! I'm curious about whether or not I should worry about water pooling/moulding beneath spc flooring. Could water seep through the connections of spc flooring?
Hi Shan, This is a great question. Yes, water if given half the chance can pool underneath the spc floor which will take a long time to dry out. Water can't get through the joints very easily as they are designed to be tight and resist. Where water can get underneath the floor is via the edge (expansion gap around the peripheral of the floor) if it is not sealed or detailed properly. If you are installing spc in the bathroom where spilt water is very possible. I would strongly recommend that the installer fill the allowed expansion gap with those thin cords of foam (sponge) used to seal windows and doors. Once the foam has been squashed in, you then seal over the top with a thin layer of silicone. This will keep out the water yet be compressive enough to allow movement if required. This is a common method used for water-resistant laminate floors and the like. Good luck with your project and thanks for your support and comment.
I dont live in Africa, but you helped me decidexwhat works best for me when many other videos failed. I wish you would revisit these floorinfs and discuss the water resistant nature of each, taking into account the newer claims o water proof laminates.
Hi @broderp, funny you should say that, we are busy working on a basic explainer video as we speak. Unfortunately we have just been slowed down by the impact of Covid, but we are pushing on. Appreciate the feedback.
i was told that there is a think layer of foam basicly, installed under spc they said its to reduce the sound.. is that true? or whats the real purpose of that foam? what if water goes in between spc.. will it smell under? and mold will apear? thx
Looking at SPC and thank you for this. I am wondering, which is cooler to the feet? Vinyl or SPC? I am living in a tropic area with average 32 degree celsius temperature
Hi Abu, without shoes it’s fine. I would compare the structure borne noise with that of laminate floors depending on the SPC thickness. This is due to the products density.
Hi, great video. I plan to do a renovation and want to replace the floor, spc looks great but my biggest concern is since spc is stone then we can’t have a warm feel when we touch it, not like laminated/vinyl. Am i right?
Hi, While SPC is a hard surface much like laminate, most SPC varietals do have a built-in underlay which does isolate the floor from the substrate somewhat. The surface feel is very much like laminate. Remember, SPC is a mix of PVC resin and calcium carbonate (stone), it is not solid stone nor does it have the feel of solid stone. I would suggest you get a small sample and keep it in your home for a few days and assess foot feel directly. Making your own opinion is best. Good luck!
It is definitely a good option. I have been to India a few years back to deliver a focused flooring workshop and there are many similarities with the African climate - obviously region dependent. Direct sunlight over time would be my biggest concern. While print technology and UV resistance has greatly improved, long-term exposure will always be a problem. Thank you for your comment and support of our channel 🙏🏻.
8mm SPC is not available on our side of the world but I would feel comfortable with this floor type being laid over properly supported and level XPS panels. As to their thermo-conductive properties, they are mineral based and dimensionally heat stable, so good structurally. Hydronic underfloor heating is the best option by far for most flooring due to their slow warm up and cool down timing. So yes and yes 😉
Make sure your substrate is super flat. If not, your spc joints can break over time as the flex. Stagger the short end joints from one row to the next by at least 250mm. If they are too close they will also compromise and weaken the floor as it moves From one season to the next. Leave 8-10mm expansion gap around every vertical obstacle the floor encounters (walls, door frames, thresholds etc), and finally make sure you gently click the planks together, don’t bash them with hammers or force them together. If you feel this is required, then you are doing something wrong. Forcing planks together breaks or weakens the click lock and the floor will either fail immediately or later, over time as it encounters foot traffic. Good luck!
Thanks for the explanation. I'm still unsure what to do as I initially wanted thick vinyl loose lay flooring (you know the type on the 4m wide rolls) but was told I would need masonite under it (which would make it too high to meet the hall floor) and that SPC does not need an underlay. however are you saying SPC flooring does need an underlay or it will be too noisy? It will be laid on yellow tongue flooring (not sure if you use that in Africa - we are in Australia). I need flooring that is waterproof due to having incontinent old pet dogs. Dog wee could be there for 8 hours if dog wees just before I go to bed and I won't see it till next morning to be able to clean it up.
Hi Lori, SPC generally comes with a pre-attached underlay. No further underlay is required. You mentioned 'yellow tongue & groove flooring... is this wood? If so you need to make sure it can still breathe from below or it could swell and fail if entrapped with moisture. We really appreciate your support and engagement.
Sounds like the good choice. Just remember to seal the edges of the floor preventing splashed water running underneath your floor which WILL destroy it over time. Watch this video as an explainer (its very short). ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-msQUrn49uqQ.html Thanks for the great question and good luck.
I’m looking for a slip resistant scratch resistant floor for the bathing area in my dog grooming parlor. I saw a video of the SPC’s anti slip capability. The floor is currently tile and we have to put several rubber mats down which means putting them down and picking them up every day. Would SPC that be the product solution?
How would you suggest cutting 8mm spc on a budget? I do have a table saw, a jig saw, and a multi tool. Can you use a tile cutter? I’m doing my whole house 1350sqft so I want something I don’t really have to keep going outside to cut simple cuts and less mess the better!!
Excellent explanation. Glad I came across this video as I'm about to spend around 6,000 Euro's on flooring for my new house! Was leaning towards 4-5mm floating click vinyl. However, after watching I think I might go towards waterproof laminate which is new to the market. SPC vinyl looks great but is very expensive. Do you have any experience with waterproof laminate? E.g. like from Pergo (Pergo Aquasafe)
Hi Inspector Tech, Pergo is a lovely brand and product but it is quite different to SPC. I’m surprised that it is more expensive, that’s not the case on this side of the world. Waterproof laminates are not waterproof. When you read the instructions and warranties, they all say that surface can be exposed to water for a maximum period of time and exclusions are extensive. Warranty is also heavily dependent on stringent installation requirements etc. Quality Spc on the other hand is waterproof. Ultimately the decision is yours and you need to gauge what technical requirements best suit your family’s living conditions. Laminate is harder wearing and more thermal insulative.
@@FlooringAfrica Ok. Thank you! Yeah it's a tough decision. Ultimately I want something that fits the following requirements (in this order): 1. Very durable (long lasting) 2. Will not fade if exposed to the sun 3. Preferably waterproof. We want to have the same flooring in our dining,lounge & kitchen area so some kind of resistance to water would be preferable. I guess SPC would fit the bill but you say it's not as hard wearing as laminate? That's a shame. Only problem I have with vinyl is most of it does not have the grooves that imitate laminate and hardwood flooring so it looks like one continuous roll. I really like the grooves! Also we have under-floor heating so I'm wondering which material will transfer the heat better?? Thanks again for your insights :-)
Inspector-Tech all the floors are long lasting in their own right. Laminate is good for scratch resistance and temp insulation but susceptible to water. All products will fade with gross UV exposure, some quicker than others. SPC does have a micro-bevel which defines a plank beyond sheet vinyls but yes, not as obvious as laminate. At the end of the day, it all comes down to, ‘Happy Wife, Happy Life’. Good luck 😉
Best wishes, We are PT Indomas Trading, having its address at sedayu square - cengkareng, West Jakarta - Indonesia. We have a Vinyl SPC Flooring product. Quality materials make homes, offices and apartments more beautiful and comfortable. 1. Choice of models, various colors. 2. Termite resistant. 3. Can be cleaned using a floor cleaner, etc. Free shipping on Indonesia - Jakarta area with a minimum order of 10 box. Order now, to : -ARI- WA : +6282188223738. e-mail : arisendy.prasetyo@yahoo.com
I have a GSP also as well as a catahoula leopard dog. I am looking for flooring that will hold up somewhat well to their nails. Would you recommend SPC as the best choice? Thank you!
Love the breed ❤️ Nails do need to be managed especially if the hounds like to skid around allot. Laminate is tougher but SPC is easier and safer to clean more regularly. I have spc myself for this reason. Good luck and thanks for engaging with us 🤜🏻🤛🏻
Best wishes, We are PT Indomas Trading, having its address at sedayu square - cengkareng, West Jakarta - Indonesia. We have a Vinyl SPC Flooring product. Quality materials make homes, offices and apartments more beautiful and comfortable. 1. Choice of models, various colors. 2. Termite resistant. 3. Can be cleaned using a floor cleaner, etc. Free shipping on Indonesia - Jakarta area with a minimum order of 10 box. Order now, to : -ARI- WA : +6282188223738. e-mail : arisendy.prasetyo@yahoo.com
Is it recommended that the SPC be installed in a 45 square meter living room? Is it possible to get up or out of the mounting edges? Specifically, I have underfloor heating. Thanks
This size of room should be fine but always check your own suppliers instructions as you don't want to void their warranty parameters. The underfloor heating needs to cover 95% of the entire room and heat up as a collective unit. Also, the heating can only be turned up in 5 degree increments as to avoid shocking the floor. You turn the heating on for the season and not for the day. The maximum temp must also be set to 27 degrees or as per instructions once again. The thermo gauge must be placed and set as to measure an accurate state of the floor. Low lying couches and scatter rugs must be avoided in this area as they could amplify the localised heat and create a hot spot. Always best to chat to a local pro and ask these questions as systems differ from country to country. Good luck with your install.
Hello! I need to know if these SPC floor planks would be my best choice for putting in a hunting cabin that has no electricity, A (NON) temperature controlled environment year around ? It can get 20 degrees to 90 degrees in this area! Please help me on my decision here?
If the substrate is nice and flat and there is room for the floor to move around the peripheral (8-10mm), you should be fine. It's better than laminate or natural fibre options, which might swell in high humidity or exposed to heat which SPC will not. Keep the sun off the floor when cabin not in use. This will prolong integrity of colour. Normal temp fluctuations wont impact this floor. Happy hunting.
@@FlooringAfrica One more question ? So after doing some research on this plank flooring i cant find out what the difference is between SPS and SPC ? Can you tell me ?
allan civitello I don’t know either... SPC stands for stone plastic composite generally. I would need to know the original wording for the SPS acronym to comment further.
Hi Susy; Yes it is safe. While SPC has a high stone or mineral content it can feel cold when compared to wood. While SPC is heat stable always follow your chosen brands installation guidelines as some may have warranty exclusions we may not be aware of in your area. When choosing the underfloor system, make sure your provider knows what type of flooring it will be installed under... as there are different systems and temperature limits depending on the floor type. My personal points to note: Cover at least of 95% of the rooms area with the underfloor heating system so as to heat up the entire room uniformly. Only installing in small areas of a room can cause uneven movement of the floor which will deteriorate the floor system over time. Also, turn on or up the heat in slow 5 degree increments every few hours rather than full blast right off. Much the same logic as over revving a cold car. The shock can again damage the floor. Good luck and thanks for your great question.
It’s a good question. No, SABS certification is not required but it is always good to have a few reputable third party stamps of endorsement where possible. Most products should reach std international standards for category in order to be specified or suitably supported by industry.
So SPC seems to be the best choice if durability is the main concern, but you lose some of the softness of the flooring which people like about laminate or vinyl over tile let's say. Is SPC also waterproof typically? I did see SPC at a local flooring store, $4 per sq.ft. at the cheapest price. You might as well go tile at this point no? Found a cheap ceramic tile with a wood grain that I like but my wife doesn't want tile in the bedrooms because it's cold and hard. Can't win... worried about indentations in LVT with heavy furniture so that's why I'm leaning SPC if anything.
It is good choice to install all my apartment with SPS floor at 4 flat i live in Bulgaria or to install Granite to all my rooms without under floor heat system.
Any advice on good companies that install spc in Johannesburg? And what would you recommend between the flooring you mentioned in a small home with busy toddlers?
Hi @Bontle, there are many good installers in JHB but one that comes to mind is www.theflooringcompany.co.za - Concerning a small busy home, I would certainly explore the SPC options (Finfloors Sapphire range or LIkewise's Atomic range). These are both waterproof which can be highly advantageous when liquid accidents happen. Otherwise a good AC4 v-groove laminate floor would wear and serve you well. Kronotex Advanced or Finfloors AGT Natura line. Remember, a quality installation is one of the most important factors in securing a longterm result. Appreciate your support and good luck.
Hi Daniel, different factories have slightly different recipes but they generally contain calcium carbonate (chalk) and PVC in various formats and ratios. The removal or organic compounds and air had significantly reduced the motivation to move under exposure to heat and moisture. It has however made the product slightly brittle and heavy, hence the continued requirement for a mirror flat substrate. Thanks for engaging - support is valued.
LVT and SPC have high stone components whereas the laminate is made from wood and a natural insulator. The SPC option does come with a pre-bonded acoustic underlay which will add a limited thermal benefit but the laminate option would be best in my opinion. This can also be improved with your laminate underlay choice.
Hi, Greetings from South Africa. Sand is a floor killer for any floor surface and entrance walk-off mats and care are essential. While being careful with regular cleaning routines you should be fine. If you think it’s going to be overly abused - then go for tiles or a cast decorative screed. Appreciate the comment and support 🤜🏻🤛🏻
I have just installed spc into my van.. I was really disappointed with how brittle it was, the planks themselves look good now they have Been installed, but the click joins are way too brittle to get them to install correctly, the planks are heavier than vinyl so when trying to connect the 2 planks together It’s almost impossible to have a successful click between the two, the tongue is usually too weak and either bends or snaps off. I’ve managed to lay the flooring but not convinced on its connection.. If you go down the spc route then be prepared for a lot of wastage.. I may have been unlucky and had a inferior product but time will tell.. it’s also a lot heavier than vinyl
Hi Craig, yes SPC is much heavier than lvt which has various benefits and negatives. Great for sound and rigidity. When weight is an issue, SPC is not the most ideal. Also with a flexing vehicle, joint structure could be compromised further over time. The joint structure from one factory to another can vary wildly and references from industry and installers adds huge value. Some have rather complicated joining click systems which as you rightly stated, can cause difficulty when installing. Some are not DIY friendly. I would suggest using a pvc weld adhesive to keep repaired joints closed that might open up over time. Cushion vinyls are really improving with their print quality and are better suited to these types of installs. We appreciate the shared commentary and give us a shout if you need any technical advice. Warm regards, Barry
for Dubai temperature ( where the sun is extremply hot and humidity in the summer is high) in an apartment with big windows.. what suits better - spc or laminate? 2. for kitchen and bathroom what is better? spc or laminate thx
It’s all depends on the grade and quality of the product. Most of the time doors are closed and air conditioning is switched on so both spc and laminate will work. Bathrooms are always dangerous and require professional assessment. Spc is highly water resistant and would work well here but the right laminate with the right install technique can also work. Thank you for great questions.
We are happy you enjoyed. Markets are varied around the world and that information is region specific. Here in South Africa, the domestic market is the primary consumer of product.
I would need to charge you for that information (lol) Sign up to our directory listing and let clients find you that way. flooringafrica.com/about-listings/
Thanks for this great question. I find that dirt builds up overtime in the micro bevel gaps between planks and a smeared patchy sheen is often left if the right technique married with correct cleaning solution is not followed. Micro fibre mops are popular but need to be rinsed regularly. Every other month or so I would mix your wet cleaning routine with a soft brush alongside the mop to scrub the grooves clean, this helps loads. The right soap is essential and it’s best to stick to official floor cleaners that are PH balanced and streak free. You do now get residential scrubbers with all of this built in which, if the budget allows, is worthwhile exploring. Especially if your floor is large and exposed to heavy outside foot traffic and pets. Remember, walk-off mats at each exterior door is essential in helps to remove grit and loose dirt. While SPC is a great product, they can still scratch in high traffic zones. Good luck 😉
Hi Nancy, thank you for your comment. With SPC being waterproof is can handle gentle steam cleaning now and then but I would not use this as a regular form of cleaning. Repetitive steam cleaning could push moisture through the joints or under the decor paper (depending on how it’s made and the chemicals used). As always, please check your manufacturers maintenance instructions first as they may have their own conditions and terms to maintain warranty. Steaming MIGHT void them.
Hi Carven, definitely the SPC version. LVT is great as well but this format depends on the choice and correct application of the glue which, if not installed correctly can be impacted by moisture resulting in failure.
Nice presentation but in my situation with v slow influx of moisture fron side or below you made no comment on moisture in spc ? Hybrid with respect to moisture wrt tenting buckling cupping
Not recommended for installation in your cold storage room, thats for sure. If its for a normal home or workspace it will be perfectly fine. Extremely low temperatures will cause the planks to be brittle but if installed correctly on a super flat substrate, they will be fine. Thanks for the great question.
No. To cut spc you just score the top layer with a craft knife a few times and snap the plank. It’s very easy, quite and quick. For tighter curves and cut-outs, you just use a pair of pliers to break out the waste. Thanks for the great question 👍🏻
SPC In our opinion is best due to it not having to rely on adhesive, which the glue-down LVT option does. In some poorer quality vinyl/spc options, the calcium carbonate component can also be compromised by excessive moisture exposure, but this is rare.
Most options are highly water resistant but variable production quality and extensive exposure to sitting water can impact the boards over time. The better the quality, the more water resistant they are. Yes, these floor types are suitable for bathrooms. It is always best to seal the edge (expansion gap) of the floor with a soft silicone to prevent spilt water from running to the edge of the floor and then underneath. Thanks for a great question.
Hi Allecs, the best way to cut these types of dense composite products is with a saw. I would suggest a jigsaw. Scoring and snapping the thicker options can take it toll on the knee after awhile. Thinner options, scouring for sure.
As a bachelor the cheapest one is what i need, i can maintain it because I don’t have a kid yet and my girlfriend only comes onece in a while and I’m going from rouge carpet to that
They are experimenting with it already as the scratch resistance is phenomenal but it’s very hard and not that pleasant as floor surface. We will see many iterations of SPC as the industry explores this medium. Thanks for a great comment. 🤜🏻🤛🏻
I am looking at a floor i want to clean and i can't tell if its laminate or lvp! The owner is also unsure! It DOESNT have ANY of that ckacky noisy sound at all - its very muted and the appearance is lovely muted and matte! I dont want to RUIN it by ckeaning it with the wrong stuff!
Hi Ann, thanks for the great comment. They are both waterproof, yet the LVT option relies on a glue bond to the substrate. Glues can be impacted by rising moisture in the slab or standing moisture on the surface of the floor. If these issues are managed, they will both perform beautifully. Good luck with your install.
I'm still in the market for flooring. At the moment the best I have found is something in between vinyl and laminate made by a company called Parador. Are you familiar with their products? In particular Modular One www.m.parador.eu/modular-one. What do you think? We had a sample to play with and it's incredibly close to real wood in terms of look and feel. My brother n law says Pergo, Quickstep and Parador are all rubbish & over priced. He recommends flooring from Kronopol. What's your opinion on them compared to the others I've mentioned? Thanks :-)
Hi Inspector-Tech, apologies for the late reply, missed your comment for some reason. We know about Parador but unfortunately do not have access to it on this side of the world. The Modular One product is a hybrid laminate vinyl product, so unfortunately still susceptible to standing moisture in the long run. This core layer also provides insulation and a better resilient foot feel. The other brands you have mentioned are the leaders of the laminate pack and are of similar quality and build, yet very different to SPC types. The print quality you mention is the brand's attention to great decor paper choice, not necessarily a sign of the best product. You need to decide what physical attributes are most important to you... Longevity, price, sound, water-resistance or other. This will push your selection towards a particular type of flooring. Then you can narrow down to the perfect visual. Good luck, hope that helps albeit late. Thanks for commenting.
@@FlooringAfrica Thanks very much. We're still some way from actually buying the flooring yet so your advice is still valuable. Thank you and have a good day :-)
This is true. Termites will chew through the toughest and most unappealing of materials to access a food source. This however will include LVT or SPC if there is a food source on the other side of the material.
He forgot to mention the topical water proof lamiete, And the vast majority of SPC is made in China. I wonder if the stone in the core is left over from their drywall?
