Published on 2026-09-04 · Suzhou Industrial Park Gulin Commerce Co., Ltd.
In the flooring market, terms like "PVC flooring", "SPC flooring" and "LVT" can be confusing. Many customers ask us: are SPC and PVC the same thing? Which one should a commercial space choose? This article explains the differences in plain language.
SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) flooring is a member of the PVC flooring family. The main difference is the core: ordinary PVC flooring mostly uses a foamed PVC or wood-plastic composite core, which is relatively soft; SPC flooring uses natural stone powder (about 60%-70%) combined with PVC resin, pressed into a dense, rigid core. That is why SPC is also called rigid core flooring.
Because of the rigid stone-plastic core, SPC flooring has better dimensional stability - it barely expands or contracts with temperature changes, is very water-resistant, and can be installed with a click-lock system on relatively flat surfaces without glue. Ordinary PVC flooring is softer and warmer underfoot and suits large-area glued installation in hospitals, offices and other stable environments.
A simple way to remember: all SPC flooring is PVC flooring, but not all PVC flooring is SPC.
Whether you need SPC, commercial PVC or rubber flooring, Suzhou Industrial Park Gulin Commerce Co., Ltd. provides one-stop selection, color matching, quotation and installation, with brands such as LX Hausys, Armstrong and Gerflor, helping you avoid the cost of choosing the wrong material. Welcome to call: 0512-68114680.
FAQ
The main difference is the core material. SPC flooring uses a rigid stone-plastic composite core (about 60%-70% natural stone powder), which is dimensionally stable and waterproof; ordinary PVC flooring uses a foamed or wood-plastic composite core, which is softer and warmer underfoot.
No, but they are related: all SPC flooring belongs to the PVC flooring family. SPC is a specific type with a rigid stone-plastic core, while ordinary PVC flooring has a softer foamed core. In short, all SPC is PVC, but not all PVC is SPC.
SPC flooring is more dimensionally stable because of its rigid stone-plastic core: it barely expands or contracts with temperature changes and is highly water-resistant. Ordinary PVC flooring is softer and more flexible.
Yes. SPC flooring usually uses a click-lock (locking) system and can be installed on relatively flat surfaces without glue. Ordinary PVC flooring is often fully glued for large areas.
It depends on the scenario: SPC suits spaces with high moisture, temperature fluctuation or a need for quick, glue-free installation; ordinary commercial PVC suits stable environments such as hospitals, offices and schools where a softer, quieter and warmer surface is preferred.
