What is Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Flooring?

Rigid core luxury vinyl flooring, also known as SPC flooring, is the most durable waterproof vinyl flooring option on the market.

You know how vinyl has a reputation for being flexible and less sturdy than traditional wood or laminate? Well, WPC vinyl is pretty darn sturdy, but SPC rigid core luxury vinyl flooring is like standing on concrete.

This small, thin flooring may seem like it doesn’t have much unf to it, but it is the toughest of the tough, specially designed to withstand the use and abuse of commercial environments.

Like WPC, SPC rigid core vinyl flooring is the top of the line for not just functionality but looks, as well. With rigid core vinyl, you’ll see all the hottest wood and stone-look trends and colors in beautiful, convincing planks and tiles. 

 

What Does SPC Stand For?

SPC is industry lingo for Stone Plastic Composite or Stone Polymer Composite (these terms are used interchangeably). It describes the ultra-tough core of rigid core luxury vinyl flooring. The stone plastic composite makes that core layer virtually indestructible, maintaining its form even on top of uneven subfloors.

What does that mean for you?

I’m glad you asked! It means you can install SPC rigid core luxury vinyl flooring on any level, over almost any existing (hard surface) subfloor and for any amount of traffic.

Pros of Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Flooring

• It’s 100% waterproof: I mean, this is the trademark of both rigid core and WPC vinyl. It’s perfect for business owners, pets and water-prone areas.
• Perfect for imperfect subfloors: This is the other trademark of rigid core luxury vinyl flooring. All WPC vinyl is great for uneven subfloors, but rigid core is specially designed for these types of situations, engineered to be installed over any existing hard surface, including tile.
• Ultra-durable: SPC vinyl flooring is the toughest, most durable vinyl flooring option on the market.
• Realistic wood and stone looks: Seriously, vinyl is changing. Rapidly. The top-end vinyl floors mimic natural materials better than ever before. SPC vinyl is the best of the best, which means the looks are usually incredibly convincing and beautiful.
• Zero maintenance: All you need is the occasional vacuum and damp mop to keep your floor looking fabulous.
• Kiss the phthalates goodbye: Many of our SPC flooring options are phthalate-free. Just check the product highlights to be sure.
• No expansion/contraction: One big worry for traditional wood flooring is expansion and contraction causing shifting or buckling in the floor. Rigid core does not expand or contract, even when moisture is present.
• Easy, DIY installation: Rigid core luxury vinyl tiles and planks are easy to install yourself with most options interlocking and floating over your existing surface.
• Sound absorbent: The SPC core of rigid core luxury vinyl flooring helps absorb sound, making it great for second story businesses.
• Extra warmth: Rigid core is known for providing extra warmth, especially compared to cold ceramic tile.

 

Where Should You Use Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Flooring?

While rigid core is typically sold as a commercial flooring option, it’s really a great choice just about anywhere you need durable, waterproof flooring. Popular applications include:

• Commercial & high-traffic areas: Particularly, commercial kitchens and bathrooms that see a lot of traffic and need a waterproof floor. It’s also extremely popular in grocery stores and other environments where spills happen frequently.
• Kitchens: If you’re like me and your kitchen sees lots of traffic, you might consider going the SPC rigid core route. You can always purchase an anti-fatigue mat to place over the areas you stand the most for added comfort.
• Bathrooms: Because of its waterproof capabilities, rigid core luxury vinyl flooring is a great option for providing a gorgeous, realistic wood or stone look in your bathroom.
• Basements: Basements are prone to flood and water damage so waterproof rigid core flooring is a great option. Additionally, you typically don’t spend as much time standing in a basement so the lower resiliency isn’t a big drawback.

Who Should Choose Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Flooring?

Almost anyone can benefit from rigid core’s waterproof features and durability. Here are a few types of people we highly recommend it to.

• Business owners: Like I’ve mentioned, rigid core luxury vinyl flooring is designed with business owners and commercial spaces in mind. It is the most durable waterproof vinyl flooring option on the market. And, its sharp looks keep your business looking modern and stylish.
• Pet owners: We know pets can completely wreck a floor between accidents, nails and running, but rigid core is built to handle it. It’s also less slippery on those little puppy paws than laminate options.