SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) flooring is one of the most popular rigid-core options for modern homes and light commercial interiors. It’s waterproof, stable, and designed for real-life wear. This guide helps you compare specs the right way—so you buy once and buy well.

What SPC is (in simple terms)

SPC is a rigid-core vinyl floor made with a stone-polymer core for strength and stability. It typically includes a wear layer, printed design film, rigid core, and attached (or separate) underlayment.

What to check before you buy

• Total thickness: 5.0mm–7.5mm is common for premium collections.
• Wear layer: 12 mil works well for residential + light commercial.
• Locking system: Precision click-lock reduces gaps and squeaks.
• Plank calibration: Consistent dimensions mean cleaner installs.
• Underlayment: Attached pad improves comfort and sound.

Best rooms for SPC

SPC is ideal for kitchens, living rooms, hallways, and basements—especially where moisture or temperature changes are common.

Quick decision tip

If you want worry-free performance, prioritize a reliable lock, consistent thickness, and a proven wear layer—then choose the visual you love.

Shopping for flooring can feel like alphabet soup: SPC, LVP, laminate. They can look similar, but performance and long-term durability can differ dramatically. Here’s a clear comparison.

SPC (Rigid Core)

• Highly stable core for temperature shifts
• Waterproof performance
• Excellent for concrete slabs and busy households

LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank)

• Often softer underfoot
• Can be waterproof depending on construction
• More flexible cores may telegraph subfloor imperfections

Laminate

• Great realism and scratch resistance
• Moisture sensitivity varies by product
• Not ideal for wet rooms unless specifically rated

What we recommend

For California homes where spills, pets, and daily traffic are real—SPC often offers the best balance of stability and low maintenance.

The wear layer is the transparent protective top surface that helps your floor resist scratches and daily wear. It’s measured in mil (thousandths of an inch).

Is 12 mil enough?

For most residential homes and light commercial spaces, 12 mil provides an excellent balance of durability and value—especially when paired with a quality finish and stable core.

What impacts durability besides mil?

• Topcoat quality (UV-cured coatings perform better)
• Embossing depth (texture that hides micro-scratches)
• Cleaning habits (abrasive dirt is the real enemy)

Pro tip

Choose wear layer based on lifestyle: pets, kids, and high traffic benefit from stronger topcoats and consistent maintenance.

Oak tones are timeless, but the way you style them determines whether the space feels basic or elevated. Here are seven premium design directions that work beautifully with modern flooring visuals.

1. Quiet Luxury Minimal: warm neutrals, stone textures, soft lighting.
2. California Modern: airy, organic materials, matte black accents.
3. Japandi: clean lines + natural textures with restrained décor.
4. Modern Mediterranean: plaster walls, soft curves, earthy accents.
5. Urban Contemporary: steel details, crisp art, layered textiles.
6. Resort Coastal: linen, light woods, tonal whites (no “beachy” clichés).
7. Modern Farmhouse (refined): fewer signs, more texture and contrast.

Yes, you can install SPC over existing tile—but only if you prep correctly. The biggest risk is telegraphing grout lines or installing over uneven surfaces.

Checklist before installation

• Tile must be firmly bonded (no hollow spots)
• Clean thoroughly—remove waxes and residues
• Level major grout lines if needed
• Confirm transitions and door clearance

When to avoid overlay installs

If the tile is cracked, uneven, or moisture damaged, removal and subfloor repair is the better long-term solution.