SPC vs Laminate Flooring Comparison Guide

Aug 22nd 2025

Which type of flooring is better, waterproof SPC or waterproof laminate?

Of course. This is an excellent and very common question. The "better" option depends entirely on your priorities, budget, and the specific room where you're installing it.

Here’s a detailed comparison of waterproof SPC (Stone Polymer Composite) rigid core flooring and waterproof laminate to help you decide.

At a Glance: Quick Comparison

Feature	Waterproof SPC (Rigid Core Vinyl)	Waterproof Laminate
Core Material	Limestone powder, PVC, stabilizers	High-Density Fiberboard (HDF) with waterproofing
100% Waterproof?	Yes (if seams are properly installed)	Yes (top, core, and bottom are treated)
Water Resistance	Superior. Can withstand standing water and spills.	Excellent for spills, but prolonged standing water can be a risk at the seams.
Feel Underfoot	Firm, hard, can be cold	Softer, warmer, more sound-absorbent
Durability (Wear)	Extremely durable against scratches, dents, and stains.	Good scratch resistance, but can be susceptible to chipping and moisture damage at edges over time.
Comfort & Sound	Harder surface, can be noisy. Often requires an attached pad.	Sounder and warmer underfoot. Often has a pre-attached pad.
Realism	Excellent. High-definition printing and embossing can mimic wood and stone perfectly.	Very good. The photographic layer can look very realistic, but the feel is clearly wood-based.
Cost	Generally slightly more expensive	Generally slightly less expensive

Deep Dive into the Key Differences

1. Waterproofing: The Core Difference

This is the most critical factor for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

SPC: The core is a composite of limestone and plasticizers, making it inherently impervious to water. It doesn't swell, warp, or rot when exposed to moisture. You can have a major spill or even a leak, and as long as you wipe it up, the plank itself will be fine. The risk is only if water gets under the flooring.
Waterproof Laminate: Traditional laminate has an HDF core that swells like cardboard when wet. "Waterproof" laminate solves this by treating the HDF core with waterproofing chemicals and sealing every part of the plank (top, bottom, and edges). It's highly water-resistant and can handle spills magnificently. However, if water manages to seep into the seams and sit there for a very long time (e.g., a slow, undetected leak under a fridge), there's a small chance it could eventually compromise the core.

Winner for Waterproofing: SPC. It is the more bulletproof option for areas with high moisture potential.

2. Feel and Comfort

How the floor feels to walk on is a major consideration.

SPC: Feels very hard, solid, and rigid underfoot. It can be cold to the touch, which is a pro in warm climates but a con in colder ones. Without a good underlayment, it can feel and sound "hollow" or noisy.
Waterproof Laminate: Has a more forgiving, slightly softer feel because its core is wood-based. It's generally warmer underfoot and better at absorbing sound, making it feel more similar to traditional hardwood.

Winner for Comfort: Waterproof Laminate. It provides a warmer, quieter, and softer walking experience.

3. Durability and Maintenance

Both are very durable, but in different ways.

SPC: Incredibly resistant to scratches (great for pets), dents (great for heavy furniture), and stains. It's one of the most durable flooring options on the market. Maintenance is a breeze—simple sweeping and damp mopping with a pH-neutral cleaner.
Waterproof Laminate: Has a very hard wear layer that is excellent against scratches. However, the edges of the planks can be more susceptible to chipping if something heavy is dropped directly on them. It's also easy to clean but requires more care to avoid excessive moisture during mopping.

Winner for Durability: SPC. Its rigid mineral core makes it nearly indestructible in a residential setting.

4. Installation

Both are typically "click-lock" floating floor systems, making them good DIY projects.

SPC: Often has a rigid, tight lock system. It can be more difficult to cut and snap without a sharp utility knife or a power tool.
Waterproof Laminate: Cuts easily with a saw (table saw, miter saw, etc.), which many DIYers find simpler.

Winner for Ease of DIY: Slight edge to Laminate for its ease of cutting.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Waterproof SPC if:

The room is a bathroom, laundry room, basement, or kitchen with high moisture risk.
You have pets whose claws and accidents are a concern.
You prioritize maximum durability against dents, scratches, and stains.
You want the most worry-proof waterproof guarantee.

Choose Waterproof Laminate if:

You want a warmer, softer, and quieter floor underfoot (e.g., in bedrooms, living rooms).
You love the authentic feel and sound of a wood-based product.
You are working with a slightly tighter budget.
The room has moisture, but not an extreme risk (e.g., a powder room or kitchen where spills are promptly cleaned).

Final Verdict

For truly wet areas like basements, main bathrooms, and mudrooms, SPC is the undisputed winner due to its 100% waterproof mineral core.

For most other areas in the home (living rooms, bedrooms, hallways), the choice becomes more about personal preference for feel and budget. If you want the warm, classic feel of wood, a waterproof laminate is an excellent modern upgrade. If you want the ultimate in durability and modern technology, SPC is the way to go.

Always check the warranty details for both products, as they can vary significantly by manufacturer.