What you need to know
- SPC is rigid-core; LVT can be flexible or click depending on product.
- Wear-layer thickness is one specification, not the whole durability story.
- A flat, stable subfloor remains important even for rigid products.
Use your own measurements
Use the linked BricoDato resource to check these inputs in your own situation. Rigid-core SPC and flexible LVT products have different installation and preparation needs.
Not all vinyl is the same
Rigid-core SPC, glue-down LVT and click LVT can behave differently. Compare the exact product construction and installation method.
Check the wear layer
The wear layer contributes to surface durability, but finish quality, maintenance and the manufacturer warranty also matter.
Prepare the base
Thin flexible products can telegraph defects; rigid products still have flatness limits. Repair high spots, low spots and unstable areas before installation.
Water resistance does not remove every risk
The planks may resist water, but trapped moisture, unsuitable substrates or water reaching walls and trims can still cause problems.
Understand what SPC and LVT can — and cannot — solve
Rigid-core SPC and flexible LVT products have different installation and preparation needs. Water-resistant planks do not make the entire floor assembly waterproof or repair a damp substrate.
Example to adapt
For a kitchen with a slightly uneven old floor, compare the manufacturer's maximum permitted deviation under a straightedge, floor moisture requirements and whether the product uses a floating click joint or is glued down. The correct repair may be levelling the base before either product is suitable.
| Product aspect | SPC or rigid click | Flexible or glued LVT |
|---|---|---|
| Subfloor preparation | Flat, stable base still required | Often more sensitive to imperfections |
| Water exposure | Check joints and transitions | Check adhesive and moisture limits |
| Repairs | Click-row dismantling may be needed | Individual tile/plank replacement varies |
Checks before acting
- Compare total thickness and wear-layer specifications, not only a headline category.
- Check whether integrated underlay is approved for your base and floor heating.
- Confirm acclimatisation, expansion and direct-sunlight limits.
- Include levelling, adhesives, trim and labour in overall cost.
Final check
Verify whether the proposed vinyl is rigid-click, flexible click or glue-down; each requires a different base and may have different expansion and surface-tolerance rules. Confirm wear layer, indentation, cleaning and thermal limits for the exact product, not just the word 'waterproof'. A sealed top surface does not eliminate the need to investigate residual moisture below the floor.
- Identify SPC, LVT glue-down or click construction.
- Check wear layer and warranty.
- Prepare a flat, stable subfloor.
- Follow moisture and perimeter instructions.
Keep a small job sheet
Keep wear-layer specification, subfloor readings, intended room, fitting system and warranty conditions.
Turn the guide into a decision
Compare the completed installed system, including levelling, adhesive or approved underlay, movement joints and trimming. If the subfloor is unstable or damp, correct that first rather than relying on rigid planks to bridge defects. Check the surface after preparation and retain the manufacturer’s installation tolerances with the job notes.