Which Flooring Is Right for Your Home?

SPC/PVC flooring and laminate flooring are two of the most popular flooring options today. While they may look similar, they are built with completely different core materials, resulting in different performance, durability, and everyday use.

Different Construction

The biggest difference lies in the core.

SPC flooring features a rigid core made from limestone powder, PVC, and stabilizers, making it completely waterproof and highly dimensionally stable.

Laminate flooring is built around a high-density fibreboard (HDF) core, which is made from compressed wood fibres. While the surface is protected by a wear layer, the core itself naturally absorbs moisture if water reaches the joints or edges.

Flooring Technology Has Evolved

Laminate flooring has been one of Europe's most popular flooring choices for decades.

SPC flooring is a newer generation of flooring technology, introduced in the early 2010s to overcome some of laminate's natural limitations—particularly moisture resistance, dimensional stability, and long-term durability.

Rather than replacing laminate entirely, SPC offers a modern solution for customers looking for greater performance with less maintenance.

Thickness Doesn't Tell the Whole Story

Many people assume that a thicker floor is always stronger, but that's not necessarily true.

• SPC Click Flooring: typically 5–7 mm

• Laminate Flooring: typically 7–12 mm

Although laminate is usually thicker, SPC's rigid stone composite core provides exceptional strength and stability even with a slimmer profile.

Waterproof & Dimensional Stability

This is where the two materials differ the most.

SPC flooring is 100% waterproof, making it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas.

Laminate flooring performs well in dry environments, but because its wood-based HDF core naturally absorbs moisture, prolonged exposure to water can lead to swelling or permanent damage. Seasonal temperature and humidity changes can also cause more expansion and contraction than SPC flooring.

Underfloor Heating

Both flooring types can be used with underfloor heating.

However, SPC flooring transfers heat more efficiently, especially Dry Back flooring, making it a popular choice for modern homes throughout the Netherlands where underfloor heating is becoming the standard.

Comfort & Walking Feel

Both flooring types offer a comfortable experience, but in different ways.

SPC flooring with an integrated IXPE underlay provides better sound insulation, reduces impact noise, and feels quieter underfoot.

Laminate flooring, thanks to its thicker construction and wood-based core, often provides a firmer, warmer, and more natural walking feel. Many homeowners appreciate its solid sensation, particularly in living rooms and bedrooms.

Maintenance & Lifespan

SPC flooring requires very little maintenance. It can be cleaned with a damp mop and is designed to handle everyday spills without concern.

Laminate flooring is also easy to maintain, but standing water should be removed quickly to protect the HDF core.

With proper installation and normal use, both products can last for many years. However, thanks to its waterproof construction and rigid core, SPC flooring generally offers better long-term durability, especially in busy households and commercial environments.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Laminate Flooring if you:

• Prefer a traditional wood-based floor.

• Mainly install it in dry living areas.

• Like a slightly firmer and warmer walking feel.

• Are looking for a lower upfront investment.

Choose SPC Flooring if you:

• Want 100% waterproof performance.

• Have underfloor heating.

• Need greater durability and stability.

• Want a floor that's easy to maintain.

• Plan to stay in your home for many years.

Lynox Tip

Laminate flooring remains an excellent flooring solution and continues to be a popular choice for many homes.

However, if you're looking for a floor that combines modern technology, waterproof performance, dimensional stability, and long-term durability, SPC/PVC flooring is the best solution for modern flooring and is becoming the preferred choice for more and more homeowners across Europe.

Choosing a floor isn't only about today's budget—it's about how your floor will perform for years to come.