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Blog Banner: Which is the best bathroom flooring? vinyl, LVT or SPC?

Vinyl Flooring, LVT Or SPC? Which is best for Bathrooms?

When renovating your bathroom, selecting the right flooring is crucial not only for the room’s aesthetics but also for its functionality. Among the popular choices are vinyl, Stone Plastic Composite (SPC), and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) Click flooring. Each offers unique benefits and could be the best choice depending on your specific needs and budget. This guide delves into the pros and cons of each flooring type to help you make an informed decision. 

If you were expecting Laminate here, find out why it’s better suited to a kitchen here.

Understanding The Options For Your Bathroom

Vinyl Flooring - Affordable and Versatile

Pros of Vinyl Flooring:

  • Cost-Effective: Vinyl flooring is the most budget-friendly option, providing style without a hefty price tag.
  • Low Maintenance: It requires just simple sweeping and mopping, ideal for busy lifestyles.
  • Diverse Designs: Vinyl offers a variety of styles that can mimic more expensive materials like hardwood and stone.

 

Cons of Vinyl Flooring:

  • Durability: While modern vinyl is durable, it can be susceptible to punctures and tears.
  • Longevity: It may not last as long as other flooring types without showing signs of wear.

Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) Flooring - Robust and Waterproof

Pros of SPC:

  • Waterproof: SPC’s core excellence is its 100% waterproof capabilities, making it perfect for bathroom environments.
  • Sturdy: Resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, it can handle high-moisture and high-traffic areas.
  • Ease of Installation: Most SPC flooring features a click-lock installation system that is DIY-friendly.

Cons of SPC:

  • Comfort: SPC can be harder underfoot compared to other flooring types.
  • Temperature: It can feel cold, which might be a concern in bathrooms used during colder months without underfloor heating.

Luxury Vinyl Click Flooring - The Best of Both Worlds

Pros of LVT:

  • High Durability: Made from PVC, LVT withstands moisture, stains, and scratches, making it suitable for bathrooms.
  • Easy Maintenance: Simple cleaning and resistance to mould and mildew make it ideal for damp bathroom conditions.
  • Aesthetic Flexibility: LVT comes in designs that replicate natural stone, wood, and tile, allowing for customized stylish looks.

Cons of LVT:

  • Cost: LVT can be more expensive than standard vinyl flooring but offers better durability and aesthetic.
  • Installation: While not overly complicated, LVT installation takes longer to install than standard vinyl.
  • Regular LVT Strips Aren’t Waterproof: Click LVT fits together like laminate and this tight fit makes it waterproof – sticky back vinyl strips however, shrink and expand with temperature changes, making the gaps between planks susceptible to water damage.

Making The Right Choice

The decision between vinyl, SPC, and LVT flooring depends on several factors including your budget, bathroom usage, and design preferences:

  • For tight budgets: Vinyl flooring offers a cost-effective solution without compromising too much on style or durability.
  • For high moisture areas: SPC flooring stands out with its waterproof qualities and robustness.
  • For a balance of comfort and durability: LVT provides a softer feel underfoot with excellent moisture resistance and a range of design options.
 
You can also see these flooring types and others put head to head in a durability comparison here!

Practical Tips For Installation

Regardless of your choice, ensure your new flooring is installed on a clean, level, and stable surface to maximize its lifespan and appearance. Consider professional installation to guarantee a seamless finish, especially for high-end materials like LVT.

Conclusion

Your bathroom flooring choice can dramatically impact the room’s look and functionality. Vinyl, SPC, and LVT each offer distinct advantages and could be the perfect solution depending on your specific needs. Remember to consider not just the cost but also factors like moisture exposure, foot traffic, and your lifestyle needs when making your decision.

For those looking for an easy payment plan, Easipay Flooring offers a convenient option to spread the cost of your new flooring. With weekly plans starting from as little as £10 completely interest free, you can upgrade your bathroom without upfront expenses.

Explore our range and find the perfect flooring solution for your home today!

Still Got Questions? Here's 15 FAQs!

Quality vinyl flooring can last between 5 to 20 years in a bathroom, depending on the level of foot traffic and how well it is maintained.

SPC flooring has a textured surface that provides better traction than traditional vinyl or laminate, making it less slippery when wet.

Yes, LVT can be installed over existing tile as long as the surface is level and in good condition. A levelling compound might be necessary to smooth out any grout lines.

Modern vinyl flooring is much safer than older versions and meets strict health standards. However, it can off-gas minimal amounts of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) initially after installation.

SPC flooring should be cleaned with a mild cleaner and a damp mop. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers which can damage the surface.

LVT is quite durable and can generally withstand the weight of heavy bathroom appliances, but always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for weight limitations.

Yes, many manufacturers now offer eco-friendly vinyl options that are recyclable and made from sustainable materials.

Specific underlays designed for SPC and LVT flooring can enhance comfort, reduce sound transmission, and add additional moisture protection.

Extreme temperatures can affect the pliability of vinyl and LVT flooring. It’s best to install these floorings at room temperature.

Prices vary, but generally, basic designs and standard thicknesses are more affordable. Sales and discount outlets can also offer budget-friendly options.

Yes, LVT can be installed over radiant heating systems, but it’s important to ensure the heating system is compatible with LVT to prevent damage.

Minor scratches can be buffed out, but more significant damage might require replacing the plank or tile, which is relatively easy with SPC’s modular design.

Installation costs can vary, but generally, SPC and LVT might cost more to install than vinyl due to their thicker and often stiffer materials requiring more labour.

SPC flooring is not as easily recyclable as some other materials. However, some manufacturers accept old SPC flooring for recycling, or it can be repurposed for other uses.

Look for warranties that cover moisture resistance, wear and tear, and any potential manufacturing defects. Ensure the warranty is applicable to bathroom installations.

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