With numerous SPC brands offering a wide variety of thicknesses, finishes, and f...
With numerous SPC brands offering a wide variety of thicknesses, finishes, and features, it helps to know which names stand out for quality, design, and pricing.
Quality brands like Tarkett, Mohawk, and Armstrong are notable for their waterproof construction and stylish designs. By exploring this curated selection, you can confidently compare and choose flooring that fits both their practical needs and interior style.
SPC flooring, or Stone Plastic Composite flooring, is a type of rigid core vinyl flooring made from a blend of limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and stabilizers.
Each SPC plank is composed of several distinct layers, each serving a specific function.
● At the base, an optional underlayment—often made from IXPE or EVA foam—provides cushioned support, improved foot comfort, and sound absorption.
● Above this is the rigid SPC core, a dense composite of natural stone powder and PVC that delivers exceptional stability, water resistance, and durability.
● On top of the core lies a printed decorative film, utilizing advanced printing technology to realistically emulate a wide variety of wood, stone, or other natural materials.
● Finally, a transparent wear layer protects the surface from scratches, stains, and daily wear, while an additional UV coating enhances stain resistance and makes cleaning easier.
This multi-layer structure ensures SPC flooring is not only visually appealing, but also practical and long-lasting.
SPC flooring is designed for floating installations using a click-lock system, which does not require adhesives and speeds up the installation process. It is commonly installed over most existing hard floors, adding convenience for renovations and upgrades.
Selecting SPC flooring requires careful evaluation of product build, indoor safety, and visual style. Quality brands differentiate themselves by meeting high durability standards, carrying credible environmental certifications, and offering a range of patterns and colors to match various settings.
Durability is a primary factor in SPC flooring selection. Reputable brands use dense core layers and reinforced wear surfaces. Look for the thickness of the core—higher mm values generally signify better resistance to impacts and indentations.
Abrasion resistance is rated using wear layer thickness, with 20 mil or above being preferable for high-traffic areas. Many brands conduct tests under ASTM or EN standards, which means their products meet industry benchmarks for scratch, stain, and water resistance. Reviewing manufacturer warranty terms can also provide insight into long-term performance expectations.
Not all SPC flooring is produced to the same environmental or indoor safety standards. The presence of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) is a concern. Leading brands seek third-party certifications—such as FloorScore, GreenGuard, or local equivalents—that verify low emissions.
Certifications ensure products are tested for phthalates and formaldehyde, supporting better indoor air quality. Brands disclosing certifications on product labels or websites add to transparency. It is also important to check compliance with local regulations on emissions and materials for both residential and commercial use.
SPC flooring should balance performance with an attractive look. Quality brands offer a selection of plank sizes, textures, and patterns, including realistic wood, stone, and designer finishes. Plank dimensions like 9-inch by 60-inch boards can impact the overall room appearance and installation layout.
Color variety matters for matching floors to décor and lighting. Surface textures can range from smooth to authentic embossed-in-register finishes that closely mimic natural materials. Brands that invest in advanced printing technology often deliver sharper visuals and more convincing surface details.
Industry leaders in SPC flooring stand out for their product durability, waterproof construction, and realistic designs. Some brands focus on innovation and range, while others are known for affordability or unique features.
Shaw Floors offers a wide variety of SPC flooring in many styles and colors, popular for both homes and businesses. Their floors feature durable cores, strong click-lock systems, scratch resistance, and waterproof surfaces.
Shaw emphasizes realistic wood and stone looks, often with attached underlayment for comfort and sound reduction. Most products are FloorScore certified for indoor air quality and come with 20-year to lifetime warranties. Shaw’s floors are widely available and well-supported.
COREtec is known for innovative SPC flooring with waterproof, dent-resistant cores and exceptional stability. Their products come in various thicknesses for different needs and feature realistic wood and stone designs with textured finishes.
Attached cork underlayment improves comfort and sound insulation. COREtec floors are low VOC certified and backed by strong warranties, often lifetime for residential use.
Mohawk SPC flooring is valued for its style variety, solid construction, and reasonable pricing. With many finishes, sizes, and an easy Uniclic installation system, Mohawk suits diverse tastes. Their floors resist scratches and stains, and most include attached pads for noise reduction.
Mohawk SPC products are GREENGUARD certified and many collections covered by competitive warranties up to lifetime protection. Their large distribution network ensures easy access and support.
Changlongflor is a top manufacturer known for its advanced production facilities and strict quality control measures in China.
Its SPC flooring is frequently selected for large-scale commercial projects due to consistent quality and product reliability. Changlongflor emphasizes thick wear layers, which extend surface life in high-traffic spaces.
Changlongflor exports to numerous markets globally and meets a range of international certifications, such as FloorScore and CE marking. The company offers flexibility in order sizes, appealing to both commercial buyers and residential customers seeking value.
Mannington is recognized for its durable construction and realistic wood and stone visuals. It uses a multi-layered SPC core that delivers both stability and resistance to dents and impacts. Each plank features a urethane wear layer, which protects against scratches and stains.
The brand offers a variety of textures and shades, including matte and embossed finishes. Mannington floors are also FloorScore certified for indoor air quality, making them suitable for homes with children and pets.
Armstrong Flooring specializes in resilient SPC products that focus on comfort and durability. Its SPC lines often include attached underlayment for extra sound absorption and a softer feel underfoot.
Known for its variety in wood and stone visual options, Armstrong continuously updates its design catalog to reflect current trends. Its floors provide effective moisture resistance, making them well-suited for kitchens and bathrooms.
Armstrong floors use an easy-to-install locking system, reducing professional labor costs. Their warranty coverage and customer service are widely regarded as reliable, adding further value for property owners.
NuCore specializes in offering waterproof SPC flooring with a focus on realistic designs and cost efficiency. Their planks come with a thick wear layer and include antimicrobial properties in the top coating, which helps inhibit mold and mildew.
The NuCore lineup is available mainly through Floor & Decor, making it relatively accessible in the United States. Installation is straightforward, featuring a drop-lock system compatible with DIY and professional installers.
Color selection is extensive, with a blend of classic and modern styles. NuCore provides substantial residential warranties, covering a range of everyday household scenarios.
Proximity Mills is established as a reliable SPC flooring brand known for its focus on quality and consistent performance. Its planks feature a dense core and thick wear layer, resulting in excellent resistance to scratching and impact.
A standout point is Proximity Mills’ variety. The brand offers a broad assortment of styles and finishes, including realistic wood and stone looks.
Proximity Mills also maintains stringent health and environmental standards. All products are low-VOC certified and free of harmful chemicals, making them safer options for homes and businesses. A durable click-lock system simplifies installation and speeds up project timelines.
Flooret prioritizes design innovation and user-friendly flooring solutions. Their SPC collections are known for long plank lengths and wide widths, which can reduce seams and give interior spaces a modern, cohesive appearance.
Flooret employs a straightforward pricing model, offering direct-to-consumer sales through its website. This minimizes dealer markups and gives buyers transparent, competitive pricing.
Every Flooret plank uses a thick wear layer to enhance durability. Multiple style collections provide a range of contemporary and classic patterns, including options for matte or textured finishes. Sustainability is emphasized, with products meeting strict indoor air quality standards.
AquaGuard has positioned itself as a leader in water-resistant flooring solutions, offering SPC lines specifically designed for longevity in moisture-prone environments. Its products use a thicker core and advanced locking mechanisms, which help prevent water from penetrating the seams. This focus on waterproofing makes them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
AquaGuard planks often come with attached underlayment, simplifying installation and providing better sound absorption. The brand emphasizes easy maintenance, with stain-resistant wear layers that appeal to families and pet owners. Customers can choose from a broad range of realistic wood and stone finishes, reflecting popular décor trends.
Fusion is recognized for its focus on durability and versatile design choices in SPC flooring. The brand’s collections feature scratch-resistant surfaces and enhanced UV coatings, protecting against daily wear and sun exposure.
Fusion offers extra-long planks and wider boards, catering to modern design preferences. Their products also integrate sound-reducing backing, which helps minimize noise — a practical feature in multi-story homes or apartments.
Fusion is continuously updating its catalog, reflecting current trends and consumer needs for flexible, resilient flooring that lasts.
SPC flooring brands vary in cost and warranty protection, depending on quality, construction, and brand reputation. Shoppers often weigh initial investment against long-term value and coverage terms.
Warranty terms for SPC flooring can significantly impact product value. Most lproducts often come with 15- to 20-year residential warranties.
Mid-range and premium options from leading brands typically offer lifetime residential warranties and 7–15 years for light commercial use. Coverage may include protection against staining, fading, and wear-through if installed and cared for properly.
Some brands, like COREtec and Mannington, provide enhanced warranties that cover waterproof performance and pet stains. Buyers should review exclusions and maintenance requirements as these influence whether warranty claims are approved.
Not all warranties are transferable, and labor costs are rarely included after the first year. Detailed coverage and limitations should always be confirmed before purchasing.
Shoppers can purchase SPC flooring from a variety of sources, both online and in-store. Major home improvement retailers such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards often carry several well-known brands. These retailers typically offer a selection of products with different styles, thicknesses, and price points.
For those seeking a broader range, specialized flooring stores and local distributors may provide access to exclusive collections or premium options. Many of these shops also offer personalized advice and installation services.
Online retailers like Wayfair, BuildDirect, and Floor & Decor feature extensive inventories. They allow customers to compare brands, read reviews, and schedule home delivery. Shopping online may also reveal sales or discounts not available in brick-and-mortar locations.
Direct purchase from manufacturer websites is another option, particularly for brands such as Proximity Mills, Daltile, or Changlongflor. This approach can ensure product authenticity and may provide detailed technical specifications.
Shoppers may benefit from checking both local showrooms and reputable online sellers. Comparing prices, warranties, and sample availability helps ensure an informed decision.
Selecting an SPC flooring brand involves more than just aesthetics. Buyers must evaluate key features like core composition, wear layer thickness, and installation method.
Brands differ in plank size, color selection, and price. For example, some offer wide planks (such as 9" x 60") and a variety of colors that suit both residential and commercial spaces.
Key factors to consider:
● Density and strength of the core
● Whether pre-attached underlayment is included
● The brand’s reputation for durability
SPC flooring is valued for water resistance and scratch resistance, but performance still varies between brands. It helps to review warranty terms and check if options match local climate and foot traffic needs. Consulting professional installers or visiting a local showroom can provide insight before committing.
Hope this careful comparison of these attributes will assist you in finding an SPC brand that fits both your practical requirements and design preferences.
(Although we have conducted extensive research, the information above is for reference only and may still have omissions. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.)