Posted by Andy Datt
on May 21, 2025
Choosing the best flooring for your home, office or commercial space is a daunting task. The choice you make today will be with you for a few years, atleast. Browsing through and making sure you’re picking the right material can be confusing, but there are three varieties that constantly come out on top - SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) flooring, Vinyl flooring and Laminate flooring.
Although you’ve narrowed down your search for the best floor to these three materials, which one is the best for you? Let’s break it down.
Side By Side - A Three Way Perspective
Before comparisons are made, let's get familiar with the materials and their qualities:
- SPC flooring is a type of rigid core vinyl flooring made from a limestone base material (with stabilisers) which makes the flooring durable and waterproof. SPC flooring is generally viewed as an upgrade from standard vinyl flooring because of its strength and longevity. It is one of the more newer technologies available in the market today and is considered to be one of the best.
- Vinyl flooring is synthetic flooring material made mostly from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). It can come in a few different forms (sheets, tiles), and regular vinyl is known to be flexible, whereas luxury vinyl products provide a rigid core option for durability.
- Laminate flooring is constructed from multiple layers, including a compressed wood fiber core and a photographic layer that simulates the look of wood or stone. It has a wear layer on top for protection, but does not have the waterproof qualities of vinyl and SPC flooring.
Durability & Longevity
If durability is a high concern, SPC flooring is the clear winner. SPC has a stone composite core, making it much more resistant to dents, scratches, and typical wear and tear compared to vinyl and laminate.
- SPC Flooring
Extremely durable, resistant to scratches and dents, and ideal for high traffic. Great for commercial spaces and busy households.
- Vinyl Flooring
Flexible and can dent easily but is highly resistant to moisture and everyday use.
- Laminate Flooring
Can be durable but will be damaged by water. It will swell and scratch over time.
Winner: SPC Flooring
Water Resistance
You’re bound to get some water or moisture on the floor wherever you are, hence water resistant flooring is a must-have. Spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements are prime spots. SPC and vinyl flooring can both take the moisture without any problems, whereas laminate flooring is nowhere near as resilient.
- SPC Flooring
100% waterproof thanks to its stone composite core.
- Vinyl Flooring
Also waterproof, but possible moisture may seep through seams if the floor wasn't installed properly.
- Laminate Flooring
Not waterproof; water exposure may cause swelling, warping, and damage long-term.
Winner: SPC and Vinyl Flooring
Comfort & Feel Underfoot
Comfort is also a big factor, especially in spaces where you are typically standing or working on your feet for extended periods of time.
- SPC Flooring
Firm underfoot, as is expected from its rigid core construction. Some SPC options may include an attached underlayment for cushion.
- Vinyl Flooring
More comfortable than SPC, by being softer and warmer underfoot.
- Laminate Flooring
Wood-based core makes the laminate feel slightly warmer than SPC, but you still need an underlayment to add extra comfort under foot.
Winner: Vinyl Flooring
Visual Appeal
All three flooring types come with several styles, colors, and finishes to replicate the look of natural materials such as wood and stone.
- SPC Flooring
Provides an upscale look with realistic textures and detail in the embossing.
- Vinyl Flooring
There are a high number of designs to choose from ranging from planks that imitate wood, to modern contemporary styles.
- Laminate Flooring
There are models that mimic wood or stone but the overall look may not be as authentic as SPC or vinyl.
Winner: Tie (Depends on your personal preferences)
Installation and Maintenance
Along with aesthetics, ease of installation and maintenance helps narrow down choices.
- SPC Flooring
Easy tongue and groove locking mechanism is suitable for DIY projects, easy and extremely low maintenance; basic sweeping to remove dirt and some mopping.
- Vinyl Flooring
Has a similar installation process but some models may be flexible and require adhesive.
- Laminate Flooring
Also easy click-lock installation but requires careful maintenance since it is not water resistant flooring.
Winner: SPC Flooring
Cost & Value for Money
Prices vary according to quality, brand, and the cost of installation.
- SPC Flooring
Generally a higher initial expense, SPC Flooring will be your better choice in the long term if you want a product that lasts a long time and does not require expensive upkeep.
- Vinyl Flooring
Lower upfront cost, products on the lower end can wear out quicker than Australian weather.
- Laminate Flooring
Generally cheaper than the others, but not as good as SPC.
Winner - Ultimately a budget-based decision - SPC is the best long-term investment, vinyl and laminate are better up-front choices.
Why Choose NEOWALL SPC Flooring?
Are you in search of beautiful, long-lasting, low-maintenance flooring? Then SPC flooring from Neowall is your best bet.
Here's why
- Waterproof and Scratch-Resistant
You can rest assured with spills, stains, or heavy foot traffic.
- Easy DIY Install
With tongue and groove locking mechanism, anyone can install SPC flooring.
- Variety of Decorative Wood and Stone Finishes
Ranging from Oak, Ash Wood, Light Grey, to Athena Bone, Luna Marble, Grey Wood - so you can choose what’s best for your space.
- Lasting Investment
SPC products are designed for years of use with low upkeep.
Which Flooring to Select?
Select NEOWALL SPC flooring if you prefer the most durable, waterproof, and maintenance-friendly product.
Select Vinyl Flooring if you want a softer touch and a cost-effective waterproof product.
Choose Laminate Flooring if you want a warm and wood-like appearance, but you do not need waterproof.
Ultimately the final decision is yours, although consider these factors before you arrive at it. We would strongly suggest SPC flooring as it’s clearly unmatched when put against the other two categories.
