It might be hard to choose the correct flooring for your house or company in the UAE. Not all flooring materials can handle the heat, humidity, and sand. SPC flooring and vinyl flooring are two common options that have become quite popular with homeowners and interior designers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. But which one should you pick?
Let’s go over it step by step with help from Planeteco, a flooring provider in the UAE that you can trust.
What Is SPC Flooring?
Stone Plastic Composite is what SPC stands for. This is a new type of rigid core flooring manufactured from a mix of limestone powder, PVC, and stabilizers. The result is a core that is very strong and stable.
SPC is unique because it is as strong as stone. It doesn’t warp, expand, or shrink easily, especially in very hot weather. In brief, Planeteco SPC flooring is made to tolerate the tough weather in the UAE easily.
What Is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is constructed of layers of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and is noted for being soft and flexible. There are many kinds of it, such as Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), Vinyl Sheets, and WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) flooring.
People in the UAE love Planeteco vinyl flooring for its comfort, gorgeous wood and stone designs, and low price. It’s a popular choice for homes and businesses.
Key Differences Between SPC and Vinyl Flooring
Feature: Core Material
SPC Flooring: Stone Plastic Composite
Vinyl Flooring: PVC Plastic Core
Feature: Durability
SPC Flooring: Extremely high
Vinyl Flooring: Moderate
Feature: Water Resistance
SPC Flooring: 100% Waterproof
Vinyl Flooring: Water-resistant (not always waterproof)
Feature: Installation
SPC Flooring: Click-lock floating system
Vinyl Flooring: Glue-down or click system
Feature: Comfort
SPC Flooring: Firm and solid
Vinyl Flooring: Soft and cushioned
Feature: Climate Resistance
SPC Flooring: Excellent in hot/humid weather
Vinyl Flooring: Can expand in heat
Feature: Price Range
SPC Flooring: AED 60–100/m²
Vinyl Flooring: AED 40–80/m²
SPC Flooring Advantages
- Unmatched Durability – The stone composite core makes Planeteco SPC flooring extremely resistant to impact and heavy loads.
- 100% Waterproof – Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and even outdoor areas.
- Stable in Heat and Humidity – Unlike vinyl, SPC doesn’t warp in the UAE’s intense climate.
- Low Maintenance – A quick sweep and occasional mop are all it needs.
- Eco-Friendly – Free from formaldehyde and phthalates, ideal for green homes.
Vinyl Flooring Advantages
- Soft Feel Underfoot – Planeteco vinyl flooring provides comfort, especially in bedrooms or offices.
- Wide Range of Designs – From wood grains to marble textures, vinyl offers endless options.
- Affordable Option – A budget-friendly alternative for quick home renovations.
- Sound Absorption – Reduces noise, making it great for apartments.
SPC Flooring Disadvantages
- Feels harder compared to vinyl.
- Slightly higher cost than traditional vinyl flooring.
- Limited in some aesthetic variations compared to luxury vinyl designs.
Vinyl Flooring Disadvantages
- It can fade or discolor under direct UAE sunlight.
- Prone to scratches and dents.
- Some types are only water-resistant, not waterproof, making them less ideal for bathrooms.
Climate Impact in the UAE
The UAE’s extreme heat and high humidity test any flooring’s endurance. Planeteco SPC flooring is designed for such environments; its rigid core resists expansion and contraction even when temperatures soar past 45°C.
Vinyl flooring, on the other hand, may expand slightly in high heat, especially if installed without temperature gaps. For coastal areas like Dubai Marina or Palm Jumeirah, SPC flooring clearly outperforms vinyl.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Both SPC and vinyl floors are low-maintenance, but SPC flooring takes the lead for durability.
- SPC: Clean with a damp mop and mild detergent. Avoid wax or oil-based cleaners.
- Vinyl: Use gentle cleaners and avoid harsh scrubbing; soft brooms or microfiber mops work best.
Regular cleaning not only enhances shine but also extends the life of your Planeteco flooring.
Design and Aesthetic Appeal
If you like modern décor, both types of flooring have alternatives that appear like real wood, marble, or ceramic. Planeteco SPC flooring usually has a matte or textured appearance, which makes it look like real stone.
Planeteco vinyl flooring, on the other hand, has a softer and more opulent feel, making it perfect for comfortable indoor places like bedrooms or living rooms.
Cost Comparison in the UAE Market
- SPC Flooring: AED 60–100 per m² (installation included)
- Vinyl Flooring: AED 40–80 per m²
While SPC costs slightly more, it lasts longer, often 15–20 years, compared to 8–12 years for vinyl flooring. In the long run, Planeteco SPC flooring delivers better value for money.
Ideal Locations for Each Type
- SPC Flooring: Kitchens, bathrooms, commercial spaces, hallways, and entryways.
- Vinyl Flooring: Bedrooms, offices, and rental apartments where comfort is key.
This makes Planeteco SPC flooring the better all-rounder, while Planeteco vinyl flooring works great for comfort-focused interiors.
Eco-Friendliness and Sustainability
Both materials are thought to be better for the environment than hardwood, but Planeteco SPC flooring is better since it releases fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and is generally created from recycled materials.
Vinyl can be recycled, but if you don’t get it from a good brand, it can let out small amounts of VOCs. When you buy something in the UAE, always look for E0 or FloorScore certificates. Planeteco satisfies these high criteria for sustainability.
Conclusion
SPC and vinyl flooring both add style, durability, and low cost to homes in the UAE.
If you want ultimate durability, watertight performance, and climatic stability, Planeteco SPC flooring is the clear winner, great for Dubai villas, offices, and high-traffic areas.
If comfort, softness, and a wide range of designs are more important to you, Planeteco vinyl flooring can be the best choice. Planeteco has high-quality flooring options that are great value for your modern UAE house, no matter what.