
Choosing the right flooring is key to comfort, durability, and energy efficiency. In 2025, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) are two of the top contenders for single-family homes — and for good reason. Here's how they stack up.
What Are LVP and SPC?
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LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank): A flexible, multi-layer synthetic plank that looks like wood or stone. Durable and softer underfoot.
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SPC (Stone Plastic Composite): A newer, rigid-core vinyl with a stone-polymer blend for improved stability, waterproofing, and dent resistance.
Pros and Cons: LVP vs SPC
LVP Flooring – Pros
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Waterproof and pet-friendly
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Softer and more comfortable underfoot
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DIY-friendly installation
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Excellent realism (wood & stone looks)
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More sound-absorbing than SPC
LVP Flooring – Cons
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May expand or contract more in extreme temps
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Slightly less durable in high-traffic areas
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Needs acclimation before installation
SPC Flooring – Pros
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Completely waterproof and heat-resistant
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Better for high-traffic or commercial settings
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Doesn’t require acclimation
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Rigid core hides slight subfloor imperfections
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Long-lasting wear layer
SPC Flooring – Cons
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Less flexible and louder underfoot
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Slightly more expensive than LVP
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May require underlayment for comfort
How Do LVP & SPC Compare to Other Floors?
LVP:
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Better than laminate for water resistance
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Cheaper and easier than hardwood
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Quieter and warmer than tile
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Comparable in price to linoleum but looks more high-end
SPC:
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Outperforms LVP in moisture-prone or heavy-traffic areas
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Still more affordable and easier to install than ceramic or hardwood
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Feels harder than LVP, softer than tile
Installation Requirements
Before you start, you’ll need:
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A clean, dry, and level subfloor
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Optional underlayment for SPC if not built-in
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24–48 hrs of in-room acclimation for LVP
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Tools: utility knife or vinyl saw, spacers, tapping block, measuring tape
Installation Time:
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1–2 days for pros
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2–3 days for experienced DIYers
2025 Price Breakdown
LVP:
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Material: $2.00 – $5.00/sq. ft.
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Install Labor: $2.00 – $4.00/sq. ft.
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With materials & labor: $4.75 – $10.75/sq. ft.
SPC:
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Material: $3.00 – $6.00/sq. ft.
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Install Labor: $2.50 – $4.50/sq. ft.
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With materials & labor: $6.25 – $12.25/sq. ft.
Optional:
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Underlayment: $0.25 – $0.75/sq. ft.
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Trim & transitions: $0.50 – $1.00/sq. ft.
Which One Should You Choose?
Go with LVP if:
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You want a softer floor underfoot
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You’re installing in bedrooms, offices, or low-traffic areas
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You’re on a tighter budget or want to DIY
Go with SPC if:
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You have pets, kids, or high foot traffic
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You’re remodeling a kitchen, basement, or laundry area
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You want long-term durability and easy cleaning