The two most popular warm flooring options today are laminate and SPC vinyl. Their surfaces are often deceptively similar, but there are significant differences in their technical properties – and these determine which is the better choice for a given project.
Material composition and water resistance
The core of laminate flooring is HDF (high-density fibreboard), topped with a decorative layer and a wear-resistant laminate layer. Classic laminate flooring is sensitive to moisture: after prolonged exposure to water, its core can swell. Waterproof laminate variants – such as the water-repellent collections from Arteo – are more resistant, but only for a limited time.
SPC is made from a mixture of stone powder (calcium carbonate) and PVC, making it 100% waterproof thanks to its waterproof core: it is a reliable choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and entrance areas alike.
Wear resistance and load capacity
Laminate flooring is classified on the AC1–AC6 scale. For residential use, AC4 is more than sufficient, but for commercial traffic, types above AC5 are recommended. For SPC, the typical category is IC11–IC12; due to the stone powder content, scratch and indentation resistance is usually higher than that of an average laminate.
Sound insulation and comfort
Laminate flooring often has a hollow footstep sound – especially if no integrated underlay is used. The right underlay helps a lot, but SPC is inherently quieter, as the composite core absorbs the sound of footsteps better. This is a particularly major advantage in apartment buildings and office environments.
Which type is suitable for underfloor heating?
Both floorings are suitable for underfloor heating, but SPC is thinner (4–6 mm), so it absorbs and transfers heat more quickly. Laminate flooring is thicker (usually 8–12 mm), meaning it warms up more slowly, but provides better insulation over cold subfloors.
Price and lifespan
Laminate flooring is clearly more affordable, making it an ideal choice for residential use. Although SPC is more expensive, it is highly durable and waterproof in return – ensuring a longer lifespan even under heavier traffic.
When to choose which?
For residential living rooms and bedrooms, laminate is more than sufficient. For bathrooms, kitchens, and high-traffic commercial areas, SPC is recommended. For areas with unpredictable usage (children's rooms, dining rooms), waterproof laminate flooring or directly SPC is the most practical recommendation.