SPC Flooring vs Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Choosing the right flooring for your home or business can often seem overwhelming due to the vast array of options available. In contemporary interior design, Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) flooring and engineered hardwood flooring stand out as popular choices. Each comes with its unique set of advantages and disadvantages, which can help inform your decision.

What is SPC Flooring?

SPC flooring, or Stone Plastic Composite flooring, is a type of luxury vinyl flooring that offers a wide range of benefits. It consists of a rigid core made from a combination of limestone powder, stabilizers, and PVC material, making it incredibly durable.

Pros of SPC Flooring

Durability: Known for its strength, SPC flooring resists impacts, stains, scratches, and wear, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.

Water Resistance: SPC is entirely waterproof, making it suitable for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

Easy Installation: SPC flooring often features a click-lock installation method, simplifying the process. It can also be installed directly on top of old flooring.

Variety of Styles: SPC flooring offers a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, including options that mimic the look of natural wood or stone.

Cons of SPC Flooring

Comfort: While the rigid core contributes to SPC’s durability, it can also make the flooring feel hard underfoot, making it less comfortable than other flooring options.

Environmental Impact: Although some manufacturers are making strides to improve the environmental footprint, SPC flooring primarily uses PVC, which is not a renewable resource.

Lack of Natural Feel: Although SPC flooring can mimic the look of hardwood, the material and tactile experience are notably different, lacking the natural feel or warmth of real hardwood.

Subfloor Preparation: SPC flooring requires a very even or excellently leveled subfloor. If the floor is not adequately prepared, the flooring can easily break or deform, affecting the overall installation and appearance.

Difficult to Remove/Replace: Once installed, SPC flooring can be challenging to remove or replace, making it less flexible if you decide to change your flooring in the future.

Sound: SPC flooring can produce a hollow sound when walked on, which may be less appealing to some people.

What is Engineered Hardwood Flooring?

Engineered hardwood flooring is real wood flooring, consisting of a top layer of solid wood and multiple layers of plywood underneath, or a three-layer structure, with the middle and bottom layers composed of spruce.

Pros of Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Aesthetics: Engineered hardwood flooring offers the beauty and warmth of real wood, enhancing the aesthetics of any room.

Durability: While not as hardy as SPC, engineered hardwood is still quite durable and can withstand daily wear and tear.

Longevity: With proper maintenance, engineered hardwood flooring can last for decades. Plus, it can be refinished a few times over its lifespan, allowing for a fresh look.

Environmental Impact: Engineered hardwood is often made from sustainable resources and is biodegradable.

Repairability: Unlike SPC, if engineered hardwood flooring gets damaged, it’s possible to repair the specific damaged planks rather than having to replace the entire floor.

Comfort and Warmth: Engineered hardwood flooring feels warm and soft underfoot, unlike the harder feel of SPC. It also adds an element of luxury and timeless appeal to spaces.

Cons of Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Price: Engineered hardwood flooring tends to be more expensive than SPC flooring.

Susceptibility to Moisture: While engineered hardwood is more resistant to moisture compared to solid hardwood, it can still warp or swell in extremely humid conditions or when exposed to excessive water.

Maintenance: Engineered hardwood requires regular maintenance, including cleaning with special products and occasional refinishing.

SPC Flooring vs Engineered Hardwood Flooring

In conclusion, the best flooring option depends on your specific needs and environment. If you’re looking for lower cost, durability, water resistance, and easy installation, SPC flooring might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you prefer the aesthetic and feel of real wood, along with a more eco-friendly choice, you might lean towards engineered hardwood flooring.

Understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make a decision that you’ll be happy with for years to come.

If you want to know more about hardwood flooring and SPC floors, please visit www.equalhk.com, or call +852 2881 7066, WhatsApp to +852 9830 9632, or email info@equ.com.hk.