Choosing the right flooring is a big choice when fixing up or building a home. With so many options, it’s hard to pick what works best for looks, toughness, and price. Two favorites are SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) flooring and good old hardwood. Each has its own perks and downsides, making them fit different homes and lifestyles. This guide breaks down what’s great and not-so-great about both to help you find the perfect floor for your space.
SPC Flooring: The Ups and Downs
Why SPC is Awesome
SPC is a green choice made with smart tech. It’s free of nasty stuff like formaldehyde, stands up to water, fire, and bugs, and is super easy to put down. These make it a solid pick for homes or businesses.
It’s also really tough. SPC flooring has layers like a UV coating, a wear layer, a decorative film, a sturdy SPC core, and a layer to keep things quiet. This setup handles busy areas with lots of foot traffic.
Plus, it’s made without glue, using a hot-press method. It meets global rules like EN14372, EN649-2011, IEC62321, and GB4085-83.2011. This keeps its eco-footprint small.
Installation is a snap. SPC uses a click-lock system with glue . You can lay it over concrete, tile, or even old wood floors.
SPC’s Drawbacks
SPC isn’t flawless. It doesn’t feel as warm or real as hardwood. Even with cool printing that mimics wood, some people still crave the natural look and feel of real timber.
Also, it can feel firm underfoot. Its stone powder and PVC core make it less cushy than stuff like WPC or carpet.
Hardwood Flooring: The Ups and Downs
Hardwood floors are a timeless favorite. They bring natural beauty and can bump up your home’s value.
Their biggest plus is how long they last. With proper care, hardwood can stick around for decades, even a century. You can sand and refinish them a few times to keep them looking new.
But there are cons. Hardwood doesn’t like water. It’s a bad fit for bathrooms or basements, as it can warp or swell in damp spots. It also needs more care than SPC, like regular polishing and refinishing to stay nice.
Plus, hardwood is pricier. The materials and installation work cost more than SPC.
SPC vs. Hardwood: How They Compare
Price
SPC is easier on your wallet. It costs less per square foot than hardwood, and the click-lock system makes installation fast and cheaper.
Toughness and Longevity
SPC is a rock star at staying strong. It fights off scratches, dents, water, and sun damage better than hardwood. Hardwood can last over 50 years with care, but you’ll need to refinish it, which adds up over time.
Installation
Start SPC in a corner, with the tongue facing the wall. Lay it left to right, using a soft hammer to lock the short ends with its click lock system and glue. Hardwood often needs nailing or gluing, which is trickier and usually needs a pro.
Looks
Both look nice, but hardwood’s natural grain is unique. SPC does a great job copying wood’s look with sharp prints that mimic timber at a lower cost.
Upkeep
SPC is a breeze to clean. Just sweep or mop it, no special products needed. Hardwood takes more effort. You need specific cleaners and must keep water away to avoid damage.
Which Flooring is Right for You?
Budget
If you’re keeping costs low but want strong, good-looking floors, SPC is a great choice. It handles weather and wear like a champ, beating industry standards without costing a fortune.
Lifestyle
Got kids or pets? SPC’s tough surface deals with daily messes better than hardwood, which can scratch under heavy feet or claws.
Your Home’s Setup
In wet areas like kitchens or basements, SPC’s water resistance makes it perfect where hardwood would struggle. Use hardwood in dry spots like living rooms or bedrooms to avoid warping.
Latitude SPC Flooring is a top pick, mixing smart tech with eco-friendly ways. Our floors meet safety rules like EN14041 and EN16094, keeping your home free of bad fumes. They reach the ENF level of GB/T 39600-2021 for low formaldehyde, setting a high standard for clean air.
With layers like a UV coating, a 0.3-0.7mm wear layer, and sizes from 4-8mm thick and 1220/1530mm long, Latitude brings strength and style with ODM/OEM service. From cozy oak to sleek grays, their designs fit any home.
Whether you’re updating your forever home or fixing up a rental, Latitude’s SPC flooring blends looks and function. Visit https://www.latitude-interiors.com/ to see our full lineup made for modern homes.
FAQ
Q: How do I pick between SPC and hardwood for my home’s style?
A: Think about the feel you want. Hardwood brings a warm, classic look. It fits traditional or cozy homes well. SPC gives modern, flexible designs. It can copy wood or stone styles. This works great for sleek or current spaces. Look at your furniture and decorations. Choose what mixes best with them.
Q: Can I use SPC or hardwood floors with underfloor heating?
A: Yes, both can work. But SPC is often the better pick. Its stable construction handles heat shifts well. It doesn’t bend or warp. Hardwood needs more care. Go for multilayer hardwood over solid wood. It holds up better. Also, get it put in right. This stops heat damage.
Q: Does SPC or hardwood work better in certain weather?
A: SPC does great in damp or changeable climates. It handles moisture and temperature swings well. Hardwood likes steady, dry places best. In coastal or rainy spots, SPC usually fares better. Hardwood does well indoors where conditions stay controlled.
