Vinyl plank flooring is available in two main forms: traditional luxury vinyl, which typically utilises a PVC or, more recently, a WPC core, and an alternative known as rigid core, featuring an SPC core. While both types appear identical when installed, their differences become apparent when examining their composition. Understanding these options is crucial when selecting the most suitable luxury vinyl for your specific needs.
What Is Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Luxury vinyl planks emulate natural wood thanks to a realistically printed top layer. The flooring also comprises a wear layer to combat daily wear and tear, a core layer for durability, and a backing layer for stability.
In traditional luxury vinyl, the core is either PVC (polyvinyl chloride, a widely used plastic in construction) or WPC (a blend of recycled wood flour, plastic, usually PVC, and additives like foaming agents and stabilisers).
Pros of Traditional Luxury Vinyl:
- Warmth and Comfort: Naturally warmer underfoot than SPC, ideal for bedrooms and living areas.
- Sound Insulation: Effective at absorbing sound, offering a quieter environment.
- Moisture Resistance: Handles spills and splashes well, though not entirely waterproof.
- Dimensional Stability: Resists expansion and contraction due to temperature changes, minimising plank or tile gapping.
- Eco-Friendly: WPC utilises recycled wood, contributing to sustainability.
- Affordable: Generally cheaper than SPC core flooring.
- Water-Resistant: Capable of handling basic spills and moisture.
- Flexible: Suitable for slightly uneven subfloors.
- Variety of Styles: Extensive range of colours, patterns, and textures.
Cons of Traditional Luxury Vinyl:
- Less Durable than SPC: More prone to scratches and dents.
- Softer Surface: May show impressions more readily.
- Temperature Sensitivity: May experience gaps in extreme temperatures.
- Potential VOC Emissions: Some PVC products emit VOCs, though low-VOC options exist.
What Is Rigid Vinyl Flooring
Rigid vinyl planks, visually similar to traditional luxury vinyl, differentiate themselves with a Stone Polymer Composite core. SPC’s unique properties make it a formidable choice for areas where durability is key.
Pros of Rigid Vinyl Flooring
- Unmatched Durability: Highly resistant to scratches, dents, and heavy weights. Ideal for high-traffic areas and pet-friendly homes.
- Dimensional Stability: Minimal expansion or contraction with temperature changes.
- Water Resistance: Practically waterproof, suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas.
- Comfortable and Quiet: Surprisingly comfortable with thicker wear layers. Dense core for sound absorption. Often includes built-in underlay.
- Easy Installation: Rigid and click-lock system for DIY-friendly setup.
Cons of Rigid Vinyl Flooring
- Cost: Slightly more expensive than PVC or WPC, though the durability often justifies the cost.
- Cooler Texture: Feels cooler underfoot, mitigated by thicker wear layers or underfloor heating.
- Less Natural Feel: Not as soft or natural-feeling as wood-based options.
Rigid Vinyl or Luxury Vinyl: Which?
With over 15 years of experience in selling these floors, we at Wood and Beyond pose the following questions to assist customers in their decision-making:
- Fit in Wet Areas?: For wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms, SPC rigid core is the preferred choice.
- Sound Insulation a Priority?: For a quieter floor, luxury vinyl with PVC or WPC is better. If choosing rigid core, consider an underlay.
- DIY Installation?: Rigid core’s click system makes it easier for DIY fitting, whereas luxury vinyl often requires glue.
- Budget Constraints?: WPC or PVC core luxury vinyl is more budget-friendly.
At Wood and Beyond, we recommend vinyl SPC flooring in 99% of cases due to its longer lifespan. For any inquiries about choosing between the two, please get in touch.
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FAQ
What are the Key Differences Between Traditional Luxury Vinyl and Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring?
Traditional luxury vinyl usually features a PVC or WPC core, while rigid core vinyl utilises an SPC core. Both appear similar post-installation, but their core materials differ, affecting durability, comfort, and suitability for various environments.
How Does Luxury Vinyl Flooring Replicate the Look of Natural Wood?
Luxury vinyl flooring mimics natural wood effectively with a realistically printed top layer. It also includes a wear layer for protection against daily use, a durable core for longevity, and a backing layer for stability.
What are the Benefits of Choosing Traditional Luxury Vinyl?
Traditional luxury vinyl offers warmth and comfort underfoot, making it ideal for bedrooms and living areas. It’s effective in sound insulation, moisture-resistant (though not completely waterproof), and offers dimensional stability against temperature changes. It’s also more affordable and eco-friendly, especially the WPC variant, which uses recycled wood.
What Makes Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring a Good Choice?
Rigid core vinyl flooring, particularly with an SPC core, is highly durable, making it suitable for high-traffic and pet-friendly homes. It’s practically waterproof, perfect for kitchens and bathrooms, and maintains dimensional stability under temperature fluctuations. It also offers a comfortable and quiet underfoot experience, despite its rigidity.
How Do I Choose Between Traditional Luxury Vinyl and Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring?
When choosing between these two types, consider the installation area. For wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms, rigid core (SPC) is preferable. If sound insulation is a priority, traditional luxury vinyl (PVC or WPC) is a better option. Also, consider installation ease – rigid core vinyl is generally more DIY-friendly. Finally, budget constraints can influence your choice, with traditional luxury vinyl typically being more affordable.