SPC vs LVT: Which to Specify for Commercial Projects

SPC (stone-plastic composite) and LVT (luxury vinyl tile) are often grouped together, but the difference is the core. SPC has a rigid, mineral-loaded core; traditional LVT is flexible. That single distinction drives most specification decisions.

Rigid-core SPC is dimensionally stable across temperature swings, hides minor subfloor imperfections, and clicks together as a floating floor. It suits high-traffic retail, hospitality, and residential interiors where speed of installation and subfloor tolerance matter.

Flexible glue-down LVT sits tight to the subfloor and is quieter underfoot, but it demands a flatter, better-prepared substrate and can telegraph imperfections if the subfloor is poor. It remains a strong choice for large, level commercial areas where a permanent bond is preferred.

For most commercial projects on imperfect subfloors, rigid-core SPC is the lower-risk specification. Where the subfloor is flat and a glued system is required, LVT still earns its place. Request samples of both, and check the wear-layer thickness and use class against your traffic rating.