How to Choose the Right Flooring for Your Home | Laminate vs. SPC Flooring

SPC and laminate flooring options for UK homes

Choosing the right flooring is one of the most critical decisions when renovating or designing your home. AllPanels can help you select the perfect affordable flooring for your living spaces in the UK. Laminate and stone plastic composite (SPC) flooring are among the most popular choices. This SPC and laminate flooring guide will help you understand their key differences, factors to consider when selecting the right one for your home, and more.

How SPC Flooring Compares to Laminate Flooring

Both SPC and laminate flooring are highly sought-after, affordable flooring options for modern homes. However, their unique properties make them suitable for different needs.

Durability

Laminate flooring is known for its resistance to scratches and wear, making it a common option for high-traffic areas like living rooms or playrooms. With proper care, laminate floors will typically last 10 to 15 years.

On the other hand, SPC flooring offers unmatched durability thanks to its rigid core composition, which is made of limestone and stabilisers. It’s built to withstand heavy impact, making it an excellent choice for busy homes and even commercial spaces. SPC flooring edges ahead of laminate for long-term use, with a lifespan of two decades or more.

Affordability

Price is always a key factor when choosing flooring. Laminate flooring is generally more budget-friendly upfront, with many affordable flooring options available throughout the UK. It’s great for anyone looking to refresh a space economically.

While SPC flooring tends to be slightly more expensive, its durability and low maintenance provide great long-term value, especially in areas prone to damage or moisture.

Versatility

Laminate flooring comes in a variety of designs and often mimics the look of natural wood or stone. It’s a versatile option that will work well for most home designs.

SPC flooring also has many styles, including realistic wood and stone looks. However, its versatility extends further because it can work in any room of your house. It’s even perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.

Water Resistance

Water resistance is a major difference between laminate and SPC flooring. The best laminate flooring for homes is water-resistant to some extent but is highly susceptible to damage from standing water. This makes it less than ideal for bathrooms or utility rooms.

SPC flooring, however, is fully waterproof. It can withstand spills, moisture, and humidity without warping or swelling, making it suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Flooring

You must assess your specific needs when deciding between durable laminate floors and SPC flooring. A few things to think about are:

Room Type

Consider where you will install your flooring. If you’re working on a bedroom or living space, laminate flooring offers a cosy and stylish option. SPC flooring is the clear choice for moisture-prone areas like kitchens or bathrooms.

Foot Traffic

How much daily wear and tear will your flooring endure? If you have kids, pets, or regular guests, SPC flooring’s durability makes it better suited for your needs.

Aesthetic Preferences

Both laminate and SPC flooring come in an array of colours and designs. Laminate floors are available in more natural wood-like finishes, while SPC flooring offers endless customisation options that mimic high-end materials.

How SPC Flooring Stacks Up Against Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Hardwood

You may also be weighing SPC flooring against luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) or traditional hardwood. Here’s how it measures up:

SPC vs. LVT

SPC flooring has a stronger core than luxury vinyl tiles, making it more durable and completely waterproof. LVT, while stylish, may not be as resistant to heavy wear and tear.

SPC vs. Hardwood

SPC flooring is far more budget-friendly and resilient than hardwood. While hardwood floors exude timeless elegance, they require ongoing maintenance and are prone to scratches.

Practical Tips for Selecting SPC or Laminate Flooring in Your Home

If you’re still waffling between affordable flooring options for your UK home, here are some tips to help make your final decision:

  • For Bathrooms, Kitchens, or Laundry Rooms – Choose SPC flooring for its waterproof and durable properties.
  • For Low-Traffic Spaces – SPC or laminate flooring will work wonderfully, but laminate flooring may have a lower upfront cost.
  • Test Samples – Before committing to either option, bring samples home to see how the materials, colours, and textures complement your space.

AllPanels Provides Exceptional SPC Flooring Options

If you’re looking for quality SPC flooring that ticks all the boxes, AllPanels is the team to call. We’re the UK’s go-to supplier of SPC flooring materials because we offer a wide range of solutions combining style, durability, and affordability. Our team will help you find the perfect products for your spaces, whether you’re revamping your kitchen, modernising your living room, or upgrading a commercial area. We’ll always have you covered.

Contact AllPanels for SPC Flooring Today

Choosing the right affordable flooring doesn’t have to be overwhelming. AllPanels provides professional guidance that can bring your vision to life. Start your flooring upgrade by exploring our premium SPC flooring collection. Contact us today to get started.