Imagine a floor that looks like real Wood, is impervious to water and kids’ spills, costs half as much as real Wood, and installs faster than you can make a cup of coffee. That’s vinyl flooring—but not all vinyl flooring is created equal. Vinyl flooring comes in a range of performance levels, from soft, flexible sheet vinyl to high-quality luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and ultra-durable SPC boards.
This guide will introduce you to all the main types of vinyl flooring and compare LVT and SPC. It covers installation methods, lifespan, environmental impact, maintenance requirements, current trends for 2025, and pricing. Additionally, it includes a helpful decision-making matrix to help you choose the right product for your room and budget. Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or a commercial buyer, by the end, you’ll know exactly…
What is vinyl flooring? A clear, modern definition
Vinyl flooring is a versatile and modern flooring option that is widely used in both commercial and residential settings. Made from synthetic materials, primarily polyvinyl chloride (PVC), it is designed to mimic the look of natural materials such as Wood, stone, or ceramic, while offering superior durability and ease of maintenance. Its popularity has grown due to its affordability, stylish appearance, and high performance.
Here’s why vinyl flooring stands out in 2025:
- Modern beauty: Using advanced printing and embossing techniques, vinyl flooring can mimic the natural textures of Wood, marble, and even concrete.
- Durability: It is more resistant to scratches, stains, and wear than most traditional flooring, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Comfort/Noise reduction: Walking on vinyl flooring is more comfortable than on stone or ceramic, and it is quieter—perfect for offices, shopping areas, and other commercial spaces.
- Moisture resistance: Unlike Wood, vinyl does not swell or warp in damp or wet conditions, making it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
- Affordability: It offers the look of high-end surfaces at a lower price.
Quick Primer: Types of Vinyl Flooring
- Sheet Vinyl: Large, continuous sheets of vinyl, with seams or welded seams to prevent water penetration. Waterproof.
- LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile): Tile-sized luxury vinyl (typically square or rectangular) with a high-definition printed surface and a durable wear layer.
- LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank): Luxury vinyl in plank form, designed to look like hardwood. These are often grouped with LVT as they are manufactured similarly.
- SPC (Stone Plastic Composite): A stone-filled (limestone + PVC) rigid core that creates a strong and stable plank—very durable and waterproof.
- WPC (Wood Plastic Composite): A rigid core that uses wood fibers—slightly softer than SPC, and generally considered more comfortable.
- VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile): These are older, solid vinyl tiles used in heavy commercial applications; they require waxing and maintenance.
- Glue-down, Floating (Click), Loose-lay: Different installation types—glue-down is adhered to the subfloor, click-lock is installed over an underlayment, and loose-lay relies on weight and friction for stability.
The Main Types are Explained
When it comes to choosing vinyl flooring, there can seem to be a huge number of options – but depending on your design needs, durability expectations, and installation preferences, each style serves a specific purpose. To make it easier, here are the main types illustrated with images:
Sheet Vinyl
You can think of it as a roll of flooring material that can be installed on your floor like wallpaper. Because it is waterproof, smooth, and economical, sheet vinyl is ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where spills and splashes of water or other liquids are common.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) & Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Choose tiles or planks that mimic the look of real stone or hardwood. LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) looks like ceramic or marble tile, while LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) looks like natural wood planks. Both offer a premium look, are easy to install, and are more durable than natural materials.
Rigid Core Vinyl: SPC and WPC
- SPC (Stone Plastic Composite): Imagine a floor with a core layer that is as strong and thin as rock, yet durable enough to withstand heavy foot traffic in commercial spaces.
- WPC (Wood Plastic Composite): So why not consider a heavy-duty and comfortable flooring option that is very pleasant to walk on – it’s an excellent choice for homes and offices where comfort and durability are essentiall.
Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT) & Solid Vinyl Tile (SVT)
These are traditional modular tiles that you’ve likely seen in schools, offices, and supermarkets. VCT is inexpensive and durable, but it requires waxing, while SVT is denser, more durable, and requires less maintenance.
Installation Styles: Glue-Down, Click-Lock, and Loose Lay
- Glue-down: This is a permanent installation – the flooring is adhered to the subfloor, making it suitable for heavy-duty use.
- Click-lock: These are interlocking planks that fit together like puzzle pieces to create a floating floor; they are easy to install as a DIY project.
- Loose lay: Tiles or planks are laid on the subfloor without being glued or fastened; they are held in place by friction and are easy to install and replace.
When considering all these types of flooring together, they cover all possible scenarios, including high-traffic luxury residential and commercial areas. Therefore, it can be said that vinyl flooring may be one of the most useful options in 2025.
LVT vs SPC: head-to-head (durability, waterproofing, comfort, cost, appearance) — 5 clear comparisons
Durability
- LVT: LVT is made with a flexible PVC core and is quite durable for use in homes and most commercial settings. Its thick wear layer (12-20 mil for residential use, 20-40 mil for commercial use) also makes it resistant to scratches and stains. However, it is more prone to dents or warping under heavy furniture or rolling loads.
- SPC: SPC is denser and more durable due to its rigid stone-plastic core. It easily withstands heavy foot traffic, furniture legs, and dropped objects, and is less prone to cracking. Therefore, SPC is particularly suitable for high-traffic areas such as retail stores, offices, or hotels.
Verdict: In terms of durability, SPC is the better option, while LVT is quite suitable for homes or areas with low traffic.
Waterproofing
- LVT: Most new LVT products are advertised as waterproof, meaning they won’t be damaged by water. However, due to their flexible PVC core, they can shrink or expand with changes in temperature and humidity. If the joints aren’t properly sealed, that can also be a problem.
- SPC: SPC flooring, which is made from a mineral-based composite, is inherently waterproof and remains very stable under varying environmental conditions. Even with prolonged exposure to water, SPC planks won’t swell or warp. Therefore, SPC is an excellent choice for bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.
Verdict: SPC offers a more reliable waterproof solution for damp areas.
Comfort Underfoot
- LVT: Flexible and soft, LVT feels warm and comfortable underfoot, but it’s even better when installed with an underlayment. This makes it easier to stand for long periods in the home or office.
- SPC: SPC has a rigid structure; it’s stiffer and less comfortable because its core is made of mineral. Without a padded underlay, it becomes even stiffer, colder, and less comfortable.
Verdict: In terms of comfort, LVT is superior, especially for homes where a soft feel is important.
Cost
- LVT: This is relatively inexpensive in the short term. Standard LVT can cost between $2 and $5 per square foot, while higher-quality styles can cost up to $7. Installing glue-down or click-lock LVT is also often less expensive.
- SPC: SPC is generally more expensive due to its rigid core technology, typically ranging from $3.50 to $9+ per square foot. With an underlayment or a special finish, the price can be even higher.
Verdict: LVT has a lower initial cost, but SPC offers a better long-term return on investment due to its stability and durability.
Appearance & Style
- LVT: LVT boasts superior printing and embossing capabilities, allowing it to achieve a realistic look that closely resembles natural stone, ceramic, or Wood. Designers can utilize this versatility to create their desired aesthetic.
- SPC: While SPC has also made significant advancements in visual design, it doesn’t quite match the texture of high-end LVT. However, most SPC collections now feature improved embossing and are visually quite appealing.
Verdict: For high-design projects, LVT offers a slight edge in aesthetics, whereas SPC prioritizes durability, making some compromises in aesthetics.
Technical Specs That Matter
When choosing vinyl flooring, the technical specifications provide more information about its performance than its appearance alone. Pay attention to these points:
- Core Type: The main component of the flooring.
- Flexible PVC (LVT/LVP) core offers a comfortable, natural look.
- Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) is durable and stable—perfect for high-traffic and damp areas.
- Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) is a cushioned material that balances durability and comfort.
- Wear Layer: This transparent top layer protects against scratches, stains, and everyday wear and tear. Its thickness is measured in mils.
- Residential use: 12-20 mm.
- Commercial areas: High-resistance protection of 20-40 mm.
- Thickness: The overall thickness of the flooring (2-8 mm or more) affects sound absorption and the feel underfoot. Note that this is the total thickness; the wear layer thickness is not included.
- Backing and underlayment: Many high-quality vinyl planks have soundproofing padding or underlayment, which makes them more comfortable and warmer, and reduces noise.
- AC/PEI equivalency: The AC (abrasion class) rating for vinyl flooring is not directly comparable to the PEI (tile wear resistance) rating for laminate flooring, but manufacturers’ durability ratings are generally similar. For both residential and commercial use, always check the product warranty.
Installation Methods: Step-by-Step Overview & When to Hire a Pro
Vinyl flooring can be installed in several ways, and the correct installation method depends on the type of product and its intended use.
- Click-Lock (Floating Floor): The planks interlock perfectly. They are easy to install, require minimal tools, and are ideal for residential use.
- Glue-Down: Individual tiles or planks are attached to the subfloor using adhesive. This creates a strong and durable floor, ideal for busy commercial spaces.
- Loose Lay: Heavy-duty planks are secured with friction and a backing grip to ensure they stay in place. Easy to install and easy to remove, they are best suited for temporary installations or areas where flexibility is needed.
- Sheet Vinyl Installation: Available in large, precisely sized pieces, these planks can be fully glued down or installed with a perimeter joint. They offer excellent water resistance, but precise cutting is essential.
When to DIY vs. Hire a Pro:
- Floating click-lock systems are suitable for simple, rectangular rooms and can be easily installed as a DIY project.
- However, for glue-down, sheet vinyl flooring, or in rooms with irregular shapes or high humidity, professional installation is recommended.
With BSC Interiors, you don't have to worry about the installation. We guarantee excellent subfloor preparation, precise installation, and all of this comes with the manufacturer's warranty. Our skilled team ensures that your vinyl flooring looks stunning and remains durable throughout the warranty period.
Performance of Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is not only aesthetically appealing but also superior in terms of functionality. Here’s a comparison based on some key points:
- Waterproofing: Most modern vinyl flooring—especially SPC and WPC—is completely waterproof. This makes it ideal for areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and even commercial spaces like restaurants. Unlike Wood, it won’t swell, warp, or rot when exposed to moisture.
- Scratch Resistance: Vinyl flooring has a wear layer and a protective coating that shields it from scratches caused by chairs, pets, or dropped objects. For commercial areas, a thicker wear layer (20 mils or more) is best. However, dragging heavy or pointed furniture can still leave marks, so furniture pads are recommended.
- Indentation Resistance: Vinyl comes in various types with different levels of resilience. SPC, with its rigid stone core, resists indentation, while WPC and LVT are more flexible but can dent under heavy pressure. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to use protective mats under heavy equipment.
- Sound: Vinyl flooring absorbs more sound than hard flooring like tiles. It’s typically installed over an underlayment, which further reduces footfall noise, making it suitable for offices or multi-story buildings. WPC is generally the softest and quietest.
- Heat Resistance: Vinyl flooring remains stable under normal conditions, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading or expansion. Curtains, blinds, and UV-resistant coatings are recommended to protect it from excessive sunlight.
Maintenance & Cleaning: Do's and Don'ts for Long Life
Maintaining vinyl flooring isn’t difficult, but it does require regular care. Follow these guidelines:
Do’s:
- Clean or sweep daily to remove dust and dirt.
- Wipe with a damp microfiber mop and a mild cleaner.
- Place a doormat to prevent dirt and moisture from entering.
- Lift furniture instead of dragging it.
- Use blinds or curtains to reduce sunlight exposure.
Don’ts:
- Use harsh cleaners, waxes, or polishes, as these can damage the finish.
- Do not use a steam mop, as excessive heat can damage the vinyl.
- Avoid getting too much water on the floor; even though vinyl is waterproof, excess water can damage the seams or the subfloor.
- Do not use rubber mats, as these can cause discoloration.
Following these guidelines will keep your vinyl flooring looking like new for years to come.
Cost of Vinyl Flooring in 2025
Vinyl flooring will remain one of the most affordable flooring materials until 2025, offering low prices and a wide range of options. Prices vary depending on the type of product, thickness, and installation method.
Material Price Ranges (per sq. ft.):
- Sheet Vinyl: ₹80 – ₹150 (Budget-friendly, suitable for large areas)
- Luxury Vinyl Tile/Plank (LVT/LVP): ₹180 – ₹400 (Realistic designs, durable wear layer)
- SPC Rigid Core: ₹250 – ₹450 (High stability, suitable for water and heavy traffic)
- WPC Rigid Core: ₹300 – ₹500 (Comfort + waterproof, premium look)
- Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT): ₹120 – ₹200 (Suitable for schools, hospitals, retail)
Installed Price Ranges (per sq. ft.):
- DIY-friendly click-lock system: ₹40 – ₹70 (Includes tools and basic preparation)
- Professional installation: ₹100 – ₹200 (Depends on subfloor preparation, adhesive, and labor)
Factors That Drive Cost:
- Wear Layer Thickness: Thicker wear layers are more durable and more expensive.
- Design Realism: Embossed surfaces and high-definition textures are more expensive.
- Installation Complexity: Irregular rooms, waterproof barriers, or subfloor preparation increase costs.
- Brand and Warranty: Brands with longer warranties are more expensive.
Sustainability & Indoor Air Quality
As more people become environmentally conscious by 2025, sustainability will be a key factor when choosing flooring. Vinyl flooring has taken steps to reduce its environmental impact:
Indoor Air Quality (VOC):
- New vinyl floors are low-VOC and phthalate-free, meaning they release fewer harmful gases indoors.
- FloorScore® or GreenGuard® certified products also have stricter indoor air quality standards.
Recycling & End-of-Life:
- Most manufacturers use recycled materials in producing vinyl flooring.
- Vinyl can be reused and recycled, but recycling infrastructure is still inadequate in some regions.
- SPC and WPC are rigid core products with a long lifespan and don’t contribute to landfill waste.
Sustainability Benefits:
- A longer product life (15-25 years) reduces replacement frequency.
- Easy maintenance means less use of harsh cleaning chemicals.
- Top brands are adopting energy-efficient production methods.
Design Trends for 2025: What's Hot Right Now
Vinyl flooring has become a trending option, rivaling hardwood and stone. The year 2025 is all about design, not just durability.
- Natural Wood Looks: This includes natural, warm, and brown shades like oak, walnut, and hickory. Vinyl flooring with a subtle grain and a matte finish is in demand.
- Wide and long planks: Larger vinyl planks make a space look open and modern.
- Stone and terrazzo effects: Vinyl tiles mimicking concrete, slate, and terrazzo are popular in commercial spaces, giving them a modern look.
- Herringbone and chevron patterns: Geometric patterns are used for flooring in both homes and offices, and look very attractive.
- Sustainable shades: Sand, taupe, and gray are neutral colors with an organic feel, suitable for biophilic design trends.
Choosing Vinyl for Rooms — Room-by-Room Cheat Sheet
- Living Room: Use LVP or WPC flooring, as it is comfortable, warm, and relatively quiet.
- Kitchen: Use waterproof and easy-to-clean SPC or sheet vinyl flooring.
- Bathroom: 100% waterproof SPC or sheet vinyl flooring is best. Avoid loose-lay flooring in wet areas.
- Bedroom: For comfort and a quiet atmosphere, use WPC or cushioned LVT flooring.
- Basement: SPC flooring is durable, stable, and moisture-resistant.
- Office/Home Study: Use LVT with a 20+ mil wear layer for durability and style.
- Retail or Restaurant: Use commercial-grade VCT or SPC flooring, suitable for high-traffic areas.
Commercial vs. Residential: Performance Standards & Warranties
Residential Vinyl Flooring:
- Inspired by style, comfort, and everyday use.
- Warranty typically ranges from 10 to 20 years.
- Wear layer: Standard thickness is 12-20 mils.
Commercial Vinyl Flooring:
- It is designed for heavy foot traffic, resistance to scratches, and moisture resistance.
- The warranty ranges from 15 to 30 years, depending on the product category
- Wear layer: 20-40+ mils.
- Stronger cores like SPC and high-duty materials like VCT are better.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Neglecting subfloor preparation: If the subfloor is uneven or damp, the installation will fail. The surface may also be damaged.
- Using the wrong type of flooring for the room: For example, using cushioned WPC flooring in a bathroom can lead to moisture problems.
- Assuming thickness equals durability: A thicker plank doesn’t necessarily mean it’s more durable; it’s the top layer that determines durability.
- Skipping the underlayment: Not using the right underlayment will reduce comfort and soundproofing.
- DIY installation in difficult areas: Adhesive installations, bathrooms, or areas with curved walls are best left to professionals.
The Decision Matrix — Which Vinyl Should You Pick?
To choose the right vinyl flooring, you can follow these steps:
- Is the room prone to moisture? (bathroom, kitchen, basement)
- Yes → Choose SPC or waterproof LVT (glue-down or loose-lay)..
- No → Move to Step 2.
- Is comfort underfoot important? (Living Room, Bedroom, Home Office)
- Yes → Consider WPC or thicker LVT/LVP with underlayment.
- No → Move to Step 3.
- Is it a high-traffic area? (Commercial office, retail, restaurants)
- Yes → Commercial-grade SPC or LVT with high mil wear layer.
- No → Any mid-range LVT or WPC suitable for standard residential use.
- Budget check:
- Limited budget → Choose sheet vinyl or standard LVT.
- Mid to high budget → Opt for premium SPC/WPC with realistic textures.
This flow ensures you match performance, comfort, and budget with the correct vinyl type.
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BSC Interiors x Tarkett Vinyl Flooring
At BSC Interiors, we are a channel partner with Tarkett to bring you the best designs and technology for your flooring, as Tarkett is a globally recognized innovator in the field of vinyl flooring solutions.
- Why Tarkett? Their products are environmentally friendly, extremely durable, and offer a highly realistic texture for both residential and commercial buildings.
- Our service: We offer complete end-to-end service, including flooring consultation, subfloor preparation, and professional installation.
- Features: SPC, WPC, and high-definition LVT – waterproof, cushioned, and suitable for existing homes, offices, and stores.
- The result: A beautiful, durable, and customized floor that perfectly meets your specific needs.
Conclusion
By 2025, vinyl flooring will offer an even better blend of style, durability, and performance. Whether it’s luxurious LVT for a sophisticated look or rigid-core SPC for ultimate durability and water resistance, there will be a vinyl product to suit every room and need. By understanding the different core types, installation methods, performance standards, and wear layers, you can now make informed decisions based on the balance of design, durability, and price.
Want to enhance your home with high-end vinyl flooring? BSC Interiors, in partnership with Tarkett, offers you the opportunity to choose, install, and enjoy flooring that is both beautiful and high-performing.
- Get a free consultation today on our SPC, WPC, and LVT options.
- Request samples to visualize the color and look in your room.
- Professional installation ensures your floor will last for years.
Call BSC Interiors today and experience a stylish, comfortable, and durable floor.