Vinyl and SPC floors are popular in Lahore for rental portions, offices, apartments and upper floors because they install quickly over an existing floor and handle spills better than laminate. SPC (stone-plastic composite) is the rigid, click-lock version that has become the common choice for homes.
Types and specifications
| Attribute | SPC | WPC | LVT (flexible vinyl) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core | Compressed limestone powder, PVC and stabilisers | Wood flour, PVC and foaming agents | Flexible PVC |
| Typical thickness | 4–6 mm | 6–8 mm | 2–4 mm |
| Wear layer | About 0.3–0.7 mm across tiers | Varies; check datasheet | Varies; check datasheet |
| Water | Described as waterproof | Waterproof, slightly less than SPC over long exposure | Fine for spills; can warp on long submersion |
| Subfloor | Hides minor dips up to about 2 mm | Between SPC and LVT | Needs a near-perfect subfloor |
| Installation | Click-lock, no glue or nails | Click-lock (check) | Glue-down or click |
Source: Material Depot SPC vs LVT vs WPC.
What each is used for
- SPC: bedrooms, lounges, offices, kitchens (away from standing water), rental flats.
- WPC: rooms where a softer, warmer feel underfoot matters.
- LVT / sheet vinyl: budget refits, commercial spaces, temporary fit-outs.
Keep bathrooms and shower areas tiled. Even waterproof planks can let water reach the subfloor at edges.
Quality checks on delivery
- Check product code, size and thickness on boxes against the invoice.
- Measure total thickness and ask for the wear layer figure on the datasheet.
- Check batch numbers for colour consistency.
- Open sample boxes: check click joints for damage, corners for chips, and planks for warping.
- Click two planks together to check the fit.
- Check accessories: underlay (if not pre-attached), skirting, profiles.
How much you need
Measure each room's length × width in feet. Add wastage for cuts; ask the supplier or installer what allowance they use for your room shapes and pattern. Divide by box coverage and round up. Measure skirting in running feet and count doorways for transition profiles.
Bulk-buying tips
- Check the subfloor first: it should be flat, firm and dry. Ground floors in older houses can have damp; ask for a moisture check.
- Delivery timing: some manufacturers recommend leaving boxes in the room before installation; follow the datasheet.
- Supply-and-fit or material only: get it written.
- Invoice: product code, thickness, wear layer, quantity, supplier NTN.
- Payment staging: balance after installation and inspection, if supply-and-fit.
- Storage: flat, dry, out of direct sun.
What affects the price
- Type: SPC, WPC or LVT.
- Thickness and wear layer.
- Plank size and design.
- Pre-attached underlay.
- Local or imported.
- Accessories and installation.
- Quantity, payment terms and delivery.
Vinyl and SPC are typically priced per square foot. Get written quotes for the same specification.
FAQs
What is the difference between vinyl and SPC? SPC is a type of vinyl flooring with a rigid stone-plastic core. Flexible vinyl (LVT) has no rigid core and needs a flatter subfloor.
Can SPC be installed over tiles? Usually yes, if the tiles are flat and firmly bonded. SPC hides minor dips better than LVT.
Is SPC good for kitchens? It handles spills well, but avoid areas with standing water. Bathrooms should stay tiled.
What wear layer should I choose? A thicker wear layer resists scratches better. SPC wear layers commonly range from about 0.3 to 0.7 mm.
Does SPC need underlay? Some planks come with underlay attached. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.