WPC vs SPC vs PVC-free flooring: what is actually different
All three are sold as "waterproof flooring," and all three click together the same way. The difference is the core, and the core decides comfort, noise, dent resistance and chemistry.
Updated
| WPC | SPC | PVC-free (cork core, linoleum) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core | Foamed PVC with filler | PVC with high limestone content | Cork composite or waterproof non-PVC core |
| Feel underfoot | Softer, warmer | Hard, cooler | Softest and warmest (cork) |
| Footfall noise | Quieter | Louder, hollow sound without a good pad | Quietest (cork) |
| Dent resistance | Good | Best | Lower for cork; good for linoleum |
| Contains PVC | Yes | Yes | No |
WPC: wood plastic composite
WPC planks have a foamed core that is lighter and more cushioned than SPC. Despite the name, many modern WPC cores contain little or no wood; the category is defined by the foamed construction. The result is a warmer, quieter floor that forgives minor subfloor irregularities. COREtec CR504 is an example, with cork attached underneath.
SPC: stone plastic composite
SPC cores are dense and rigid thanks to a high limestone content. They resist dents from heavy furniture better than WPC and cost less, but they feel hard and can sound hollow. Rigid cores also bridge small dips instead of following them, which can make joints flex if the subfloor is not flat. We do not currently feature SPC because our clients consistently prefer WPC or PVC-free options, but we can supply it for commercial projects.
PVC-free waterproof options
Both WPC and SPC are vinyl products. If avoiding PVC matters to you, the two proven alternatives are a cork-based rigid core, such as Wicanders WISE Cork Inspire, and natural linoleum on a waterproof core, such as Marmoleum Cinch Loc Seal. Cork is the most comfortable of all; linoleum offers the widest color range.
Which to choose, room by room
Basements: WPC or WISE cork, after a moisture test (see basement flooring). Kitchens: any of the three; choose on comfort and chemistry. Condos with acoustic rules: WPC with cork backing or WISE cork. Heavy furniture or rolling loads: SPC or linoleum.
What waterproof means for all three
The core will not swell from topical water. Seams resist water but are not sealed, and none of these floors stops vapor coming up through a slab. That is why prep and testing matter as much as the product. See waterproof flooring installation.
Common questions
Is WPC better than SPC?
Neither is better overall. WPC is more comfortable and quieter; SPC resists dents better and costs less. For homes, most of our clients prefer WPC.
Is there a waterproof floor without PVC?
Yes. Cork rigid-core products like Wicanders WISE and click linoleum like Marmoleum Cinch Loc Seal are waterproof-rated alternatives with no PVC.