Vinyl Flooring Explained: SPC, WPC, EPC & More — Find the Right Floor for Your Home
Vinyl Flooring Explained: SPC, WPC, EPC & More — Find the Right Floor for Your Home
Not All Vinyl Flooring Is Created Equal
Shopping for new flooring can be exciting—until you start looking at the specifications.
Suddenly you're hearing terms like SPC, WPC, EPC, LVP, LVT, wear layer, rigid core, waterproof, click-lock and glue-down.
What does it all mean?
And more importantly:
Which type of vinyl flooring is right for your home?
The answer depends on how you live, where the floor is going and what matters most to you.
Do you want maximum durability?
A softer feel underfoot?
A premium hardwood appearance?
Better sound control?
A floor that can handle kids and pets?
Or simply the best value for your renovation budget?
This guide will help you understand the differences so you can make a more informed decision.
At Chamberlain Timber Mart, we carry several levels of vinyl flooring, including Aquila, Difference, Biyork HydroGen, Trio EPC and Curate, giving you the opportunity to compare flooring based on performance—not just colour and price.
What Is Luxury Vinyl Flooring?
Luxury vinyl flooring is designed to recreate the appearance of natural hardwood, stone or tile while providing a durable and easy-to-maintain flooring surface.
You'll commonly see:
LVP — Luxury Vinyl Plank
LVT — Luxury Vinyl Tile
SPC — Stone Plastic Composite
WPC — Wood Plastic Composite
EPC — Engineered Polymer Composite
Glue-down vinyl
Loose-lay vinyl
Flexible vinyl
Here's the important distinction:
LVP and LVT describe the format and appearance.
SPC, WPC and EPC describe the construction of the floor.
That construction can affect the floor's stability, comfort, durability, sound characteristics and installation method.
SPC Flooring: The Durable, Stable Choice
What Is SPC?
SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite.
SPC flooring has a dense, rigid core that gives the plank a firm and stable feel underfoot.
It has become one of the most popular choices for homeowners because it combines:
Rigid construction
Excellent dimensional stability
Water-resistant or waterproof construction, depending on the product
Good dent resistance
Easy maintenance
Attractive wood-look designs
Floating click installation on many products
SPC is especially popular for:
Kitchens • Entryways • Hallways • Basements • Laundry Rooms • Family Rooms • Mudrooms
If you have kids, pets or a busy household, SPC is definitely worth considering.
What does SPC feel like?
SPC generally feels firm and solid underfoot.
That's a benefit for homeowners who want a floor that feels substantial and stable.
However, if you prefer something with more cushioning, there are other options.
WPC Flooring: Softer & More Comfortable
WPC stands for Wood Plastic Composite.
Compared with traditional dense SPC, WPC flooring generally has a more cushioned core.
The result is a floor that can feel:
Softer
Warmer
More comfortable
More forgiving underfoot
WPC can be particularly appealing in:
Bedrooms • Living Rooms • Family Rooms • Home Offices
The easy way to remember it:
SPC = Firm & Stable
WPC = Soft & Comfortable
Neither is automatically better.
It depends on what you want from your floor.
EPC Flooring: A Balance of Performance & Comfort
EPC stands for Engineered Polymer Composite.
EPC is an interesting development in rigid-core flooring because it attempts to combine the structural characteristics of rigid flooring with a more comfortable feel.
A great example is Trio EPC Vinyl Flooring.
Trio uses an ABA-style core construction combining solid SPC layers with a foamed SPC centre. According to Taiga, this construction is designed to provide strength, flexibility and comfort while reducing weight compared with traditional SPC.
Trio EPC features include:
100% waterproof construction
8 mm overall thickness
20 mil wear layer
9" x 60" planks
25-year limited residential warranty
5-year limited commercial warranty
Why consider EPC?
If you like the stability of rigid-core flooring but want a more comfortable feel, EPC is worth putting beside your SPC samples.
And the large 9" x 60" format gives Trio a premium, modern hardwood appearance.
SPC vs. WPC vs. EPC
If all the terminology is starting to sound complicated, keep it simple.
| Type | Construction | Feel | Main Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPC | Dense rigid core | Firm | Stability & durability |
| WPC | Cushioned rigid core | Softer | Comfort |
| EPC | Engineered composite core | Balanced | Comfort + performance |
The best way to decide?
Feel the samples.
The difference between SPC, WPC and EPC is much easier to understand when you actually walk on the products.
LVP vs. LVT: Plank or Tile?
You may also see the terms LVP and LVT.
They're easy to understand.
LVP — Luxury Vinyl Plank
LVP is designed to replicate hardwood.
You'll find designs that resemble:
Oak
Maple
Hickory
Walnut
Pine
Other hardwood species
If you want a wood-look floor, LVP is probably what you're looking for.
LVT — Luxury Vinyl Tile
LVT is designed to replicate stone and tile.
Popular looks include:
Marble
Slate
Travertine
Concrete
Ceramic tile
LVT can give you the appearance of tile without the hardness and grout maintenance associated with traditional tile.
The Wear Layer: One of the Most Important Specifications
You've probably seen vinyl flooring advertised as:
12 mil • 15 mil • 20 mil • 22 mil
But what does that mean?
The wear layer is the protective layer over the decorative surface.
It helps protect the floor from everyday:
Scratches
Scuffs
Staining
Wear
General traffic
Generally, a higher wear-layer specification provides greater protection, although the entire construction and manufacturer's testing should be considered.
A simple guide:
12 mil
A common choice for standard residential use.
15 mil
A step up for busier households.
20 mil
An excellent choice for active homes and heavier traffic.
22 mil+
A premium option when additional surface protection is a priority.
Don't Judge a Floor by Thickness Alone
This is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when comparing vinyl flooring.
You may see one floor that's 8 mm thick and another that's 6 mm thick and assume the 8 mm product is automatically better.
That's not necessarily true.
Overall thickness includes the entire construction of the flooring.
The wear layer is only one part of that construction.
When comparing products, look at:
Core + Wear Layer + Surface Finish + Attached Pad + Locking System + Warranty
That's how you compare flooring properly.
Biyork HydroGen: Five Levels of Waterproof Flooring
If you're looking for a product line that gives you several levels of performance, Biyork HydroGen deserves a close look.
One of the biggest advantages of HydroGen is that you're not limited to one specification.
Biyork currently offers:
HydroGen Pro
HydroGen 5
HydroGen 6
HydroGen 7
HydroGen 8
Each line is designed for a different type of application and customer.
Biyork's current Canadian resource library lists all five as part of its waterproof vinyl portfolio. (BIYORK)
Explore Biyork's HydroGen collections
HydroGen Pro: Glue-Down Performance
For Commercial & Specialty Applications
HydroGen Pro is different from the floating HydroGen collections.
It is a glue-down LVP, making it particularly suitable for commercial and specialty installations where a direct-adhered floor is preferred.
HydroGen Pro is available in two constructions:
HydroGen Pro 2 mm
7" x 48"
2 mm overall thickness
12 mil wear layer
Glue-down installation
100% waterproof structure
TrueShield scratch, stain and wear-resistant coating
Suitable for hydronic radiant heat systems
25-year residential warranty
5-year light-commercial warranty
HydroGen Pro 3 mm
7" x 48"
3 mm overall thickness
20 mil wear layer
Glue-down installation
100% waterproof structure
TrueShield scratch, stain and wear-resistant coating
FloorScore certified
Suitable for hydronic radiant heat systems
30-year residential warranty
10-year light-commercial warranty
(BIYORK)
Why choose HydroGen Pro?
If you're looking for a glue-down product, especially for a commercial or high-use environment, the 3 mm version gives you a substantial 20 mil wear layer and a longer warranty.
HydroGen 5: Quality SPC at a More Accessible Level
HydroGen 5 is a 5 mm next-generation SPC floor designed to give homeowners waterproof performance and a substantial collection of features without moving into the higher-priced HydroGen levels.
HydroGen 5 specifications:
48" x 7.2" plank
5 mm overall thickness
12 mil / 0.3 mm wear layer
1 mm IXPE attached underlayment
Micro-beveled edge
Overall embossed finish
Uniclic installation
100% waterproof structure
Radiant-heat compatible
FloorScore certified
25-year residential warranty
5-year light-commercial warranty
IIC 72
STC 68 in laboratory testing
Who is HydroGen 5 for?
HydroGen 5 is an excellent choice when you're looking for:
Waterproof SPC + Attached Pad + Easy Installation + Strong Warranty
without immediately moving into the premium end of the HydroGen range.
Think of it as:
"A great starting point for a quality Biyork SPC floor."
HydroGen 6: More Thickness & More Protection
HydroGen 6 takes a significant step up from HydroGen 5.
It moves to a 6 mm SPC construction and a 20 mil wear layer.
HydroGen 6 plank specifications:
7" x 48" or 7" x 60"
6 mm overall thickness
20 mil / 0.5 mm wear layer
1 mm HD IXPE attached underlayment
Micro-beveled edge
Antique wood texture
SPC construction
Unipush click floating installation
100% waterproof structure
Radiant-heat compatible
FloorScore certified
30-year residential warranty
10-year commercial warranty
IIC 72
STC 68 in laboratory testing
HydroGen 6 also offers a tile format.
The HydroGen 6 collection includes both plank and tile options, allowing you to get the performance of the collection while choosing a different visual style. Biyork's current resource library provides separate technical and installation documentation for HydroGen 6 plank and tile. (BIYORK)
Who should consider HydroGen 6?
If you're looking for a more substantial SPC floor with:
6 mm construction + 20 mil wear layer + attached acoustic underlayment + 30-year residential warranty
HydroGen 6 is a very strong choice.
Think of it as:
"The serious everyday performer."
HydroGen 7: Wide-Plank Premium SPC
Now we're getting into the premium end of the traditional SPC HydroGen lineup.
HydroGen 7 moves to a large-format:
9" x 60" plank
That wider plank creates a more upscale hardwood appearance.
HydroGen 7 specifications:
9" x 60" plank
7 mm overall thickness
20 mil / 0.5 mm wear layer
1.5 mm IXPE attached underlayment
Painted bevel
Embossed-in-register finish
SPC construction
I4F Click Float installation
Radiant-heat compatible
35-year residential warranty
10-year commercial warranty
IIC 72
STC 73 in laboratory testing
HydroGen 7 is also designed for residential and commercial applications and is FloorScore certified.
Why choose HydroGen 7?
This is where you start getting a combination of:
Large-format appearance + 20 mil protection + premium construction + long warranty
If you're renovating your main floor and want the flooring to look more like a high-end hardwood installation, HydroGen 7 is definitely worth putting on your shortlist.
Think of it as:
"Premium SPC with a luxury wide-plank appearance."
HydroGen 8: Biyork's Premium Hybrid-Core Floor
The Top of the HydroGen Line
HydroGen 8 is where Biyork takes a different approach.
Instead of simply making a traditional SPC core denser or thicker, HydroGen 8 uses Nimbus Core technology.
Biyork describes Nimbus Core as a flexible core technology designed to combine the rigidity and durability associated with SPC with the comfort associated with WPC. (BIYORK)
What does that mean for you?
You get a floor designed to provide:
SPC Strength + WPC Comfort
Biyork says its Nimbus Core technology provides greater stability than traditional WPC while reducing weight compared with rigid SPC. (BIYORK)
HydroGen 8 Specifications
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9" x 72" plank
8 mm overall thickness
22 mil wear layer
Nimbus Core construction
5G click system
100% waterproof structure
TrueShield scratch, stain and wear-resistant coating
Registered embossing for enhanced wood-grain texture
Refined pressed bevel edge
40-year residential warranty
10-year commercial warranty
(BIYORK)
Why the 9" x 72" plank matters
This is a dramatically larger plank than many traditional vinyl products.
The long, wide format can create:
Fewer seams
A more spacious appearance
A more premium hardwood look
Greater visual impact in large rooms
And because HydroGen 8 uses Nimbus Core, you aren't simply buying a larger SPC plank.
You're getting a different core technology designed around comfort, stability and performance.
Think of HydroGen 8 as:
"Premium vinyl flooring for homeowners who want the look and feel of an upscale floor."
HydroGen: Which One Is Right for You?
Specifications and warranties are based on Biyork's current product information and technical documentation; product specifications can change, so always confirm the current technical sheet before purchase. (BIYORK)
HydroGen 5 vs. 6 vs. 7 vs. 8
If you're wondering why you would spend more for one HydroGen collection over another, here's a simple way to look at it.
HydroGen 5
"I want a quality waterproof SPC floor."
You get a 5 mm floor, 12 mil wear layer and 25-year residential warranty.
HydroGen 6
"I want more protection and a more substantial floor."
You move to 6 mm, 20 mil wear layer and a 30-year residential warranty.
HydroGen 7
"I want a premium wide-plank appearance."
You get a 9" x 60" format, 7 mm construction, 20 mil wear layer and a 35-year residential warranty.
HydroGen 8
"I want the premium option."
You get 9" x 72" planks, 8 mm construction, 22 mil protection, Nimbus Core technology and a 40-year residential warranty.
Why Upgrade From HydroGen 5 to HydroGen 8?
The question isn't simply:
"Is the more expensive floor better?"
The better question is:
"What features are important enough to me to justify the upgrade?"
Going up through the HydroGen line can give you:
Greater overall thickness
Higher wear-layer specifications
Larger plank sizes
Longer warranties
More advanced core construction
More premium surface detailing
Increased comfort characteristics
More upscale visual appeal
If you're flooring a small bedroom, HydroGen 5 may be exactly what you need.
If you're renovating your entire main floor, however, HydroGen 7 or HydroGen 8 may be worth experiencing before you make your final decision.
Aquila Vinyl Flooring
A Great All-Around SPC Choice
If you're looking for a quality SPC floor outside of the HydroGen lineup, Aquila is an excellent product to compare.
Aquila features:
5.5 mm total thickness
20 mil wear layer
1 mm attached acoustic pad
100% waterproof construction
Anti-microbial coating
Scratch and dent resistance
UV and stain resistance
Uniclic Angle-Tap locking system
Limited lifetime residential warranty
10-year limited commercial warranty
Why consider Aquila?
Aquila gives you a strong combination of:
Durability + Waterproof Construction + Acoustic Pad + Value
It's a great option for customers who want to step above basic vinyl without immediately moving into the premium price range.
Difference Vinyl Flooring
A Strong Choice for Busy Homes
Difference is another SPC floor worth comparing.
It features:
6.5 mm overall thickness
15 mil wear layer
1.5 mm IXPE acoustic pad
100% waterproof construction
Anti-microbial coating
Scratch, dent and stain resistance
Up to 73 STC / 72 IIC acoustic ratings
25-year limited residential warranty
10-year limited light-commercial warranty
Consider Difference if:
You want a substantial SPC floor and acoustic performance is important to you.
Trio EPC
When You Want Comfort & Performance
Trio EPC is an excellent choice for homeowners who want something beyond traditional SPC.
Its engineered EPC construction combines rigid SPC layers with a foamed centre to provide a different feel underfoot while maintaining a rigid-core structure.
With:
8 mm construction
20 mil wear layer
9" x 60" planks
100% waterproof construction
5G locking system
25-year residential warranty
Trio EPC is a great product to compare against premium SPC.
Think:
"I want durability, but I also care about comfort."
Curate Vinyl Flooring
Premium Appearance Meets Durability
If appearance is one of your biggest priorities, take a serious look at Curate Vinyl Flooring.
Curate combines:
9" x 60" large-format planks
7 mm SPC construction
1.5 mm IXPE acoustic pad
22 mil wear layer
100% waterproof construction
Embossed-in-register texture
Välinge 5G locking system
Limited lifetime residential warranty
25-year limited light-commercial warranty
Why consider Curate?
The combination of large planks, realistic texture and a 22 mil wear layer makes Curate a strong option when you want your floor to look premium without sacrificing everyday performance.
Which Vinyl Floor Should You Choose?
💰 Looking for Great Value?
Start by comparing Aquila and HydroGen 5.
🏠 Want a Durable Everyday Floor?
Look at Difference, HydroGen 6 or Aquila.
👨👩👧👦 Have Kids & Pets?
Pay close attention to:
Wear layer + surface protection + waterproof construction + warranty
HydroGen 6, HydroGen 7, HydroGen 8, Aquila, Trio and Curate are all worth comparing based on your specific needs.
👣 Want More Comfort Underfoot?
Compare:
WPC vs. EPC vs. Biyork's Nimbus Core technology.
Trio EPC and HydroGen 8 are especially interesting choices if comfort is high on your priority list.
✨ Want a Premium Look?
Put these on your shortlist:
HydroGen 7
9" x 60"
HydroGen 8
9" x 72"
Trio EPC
9" x 60"
Curate
9" x 60"
The larger plank formats can give your room a much more upscale appearance.
What About Basements?
Vinyl flooring is an extremely popular choice for finished basements.
Many rigid-core products provide waterproof plank construction, but there's an important distinction:
Waterproof flooring does not mean you can ignore the subfloor.
Before installation, make sure:
The concrete or subfloor is properly prepared
Moisture levels meet the manufacturer's requirements
The floor is sufficiently flat
Expansion requirements are followed
Installation instructions are followed carefully
A waterproof plank cannot compensate for an improperly prepared subfloor.
If you're unsure about your basement, talk to us before you install.
Don't Choose Your Floor by Price Alone
It's easy to compare flooring by looking at the price per square foot.
But there's more to value than the number on the price tag.
Consider:
How long is the warranty?
What is the wear layer?
What is the core construction?
Does it have an attached acoustic pad?
How does it feel underfoot?
How large are the planks?
How realistic does the surface look and feel?
What installation system does it use?
Where are you installing it?
Once you start looking at the entire package, the reason for the difference in price becomes much easier to understand.
The Best Way to Choose Your Flooring
Before you buy, think about the room you're actually flooring.
Is it a bedroom?
Comfort and appearance may be your biggest priorities.
Is it a kitchen?
Durability, water resistance and easy maintenance may matter more.
Is it a basement?
Moisture and subfloor preparation become particularly important.
Is it your main floor?
This is where investing in a premium product can make a noticeable difference.
Do you have children or pets?
Look closely at wear-layer specifications and surface protection.
Don't Just Look at the Sample—Feel It
This is one of the best pieces of advice we can give you.
When comparing vinyl flooring:
Put the samples beside each other.
Look at the colour.
Look at the grain.
Feel the texture.
Walk across the samples.
Compare the plank widths.
Look at the wear-layer specifications.
Then imagine that flooring covering your entire room.
You'll often find that the difference between a basic floor and a premium floor is much easier to appreciate in person than it is on a price tag.
Why We Carry Multiple Vinyl Flooring Options
At Chamberlain Timber Mart, we don't believe every homeowner needs the same floor.
That's why we offer different constructions and performance levels.
You might be perfectly happy with Aquila.
You might need the additional performance of HydroGen 6.
You might fall in love with the wide-plank appearance of HydroGen 7.
You might want the comfort and technology of HydroGen 8 or Trio EPC.
Or you might decide that Curate gives you exactly the combination of appearance and durability you're looking for.
There isn't one "best" vinyl floor.
There's a best floor for you.
Ready to Find Your New Floor?
Before you choose your vinyl flooring, come in and compare the options for yourself.
Ask us to show you:
Aquila
Difference
Biyork HydroGen Pro
Biyork HydroGen 5
Biyork HydroGen 6
Biyork HydroGen 7
Biyork HydroGen 8
Trio EPC
Curate
We'll help you compare the core construction, wear layer, plank size, feel, appearance, warranty and intended application so you can make the right decision for your home.
Don't just choose the cheapest floor.
Don't just choose the prettiest floor.
Choose the floor that gives you the right combination of appearance, performance, comfort and value.
Visit Chamberlain Timber Mart and let us help you find a vinyl floor you'll be happy to live with for years to come.
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