Understanding the Difference: LVT Gluedown vs. SPC Click Flooring

When choosing modern vinyl flooring, two very different systems dominate the market: dryback (gluedown) LVT and SPC click flooring. Both are durable, attractive, and easy to maintain, but they work in distinct ways and excel in different situations. Understanding their key differences will help you select the perfect floor for your space, style, and installation needs.

Dryback / Gluedown LVT (Typically 2.5mm)

What it is
Dryback LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile or Plank) is a flexible vinyl floor, usually around 2.5mm thick, that is permanently bonded to the subfloor using adhesive. Once installed, it becomes a seamless, ultra-stable part of your floor structure.

Why choose it

·       Ultra-low profile: At just 2.5mm, it keeps floor heights minimal — ideal around doors, thresholds, and transitions.

·       Long-term stability: Fully glued down, it won’t shift or move over time.

·       Extensive design options: Choose from wood, stone, and patterned styles, including detailed herringbone layouts.

·       Cost-effective: An economical solution for large areas.

·       Trusted in commercial spaces: Widely used in retail, offices, and hospitality settings.

Best uses

·       Large open spaces in commercial or residential environments

·       Projects where a smooth, permanent floor is desired

·       Renovations where maintaining floor height is important

·       Installations featuring detailed patterns or complex layouts

Considerations

·       Requires a smooth, properly prepared subfloor

·       Usually installed by professional fitters due to the adhesive process

SPC Click Flooring (Typically 5–6mm)

What it is
SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite. These rigid vinyl planks or tiles have a built-in click system, allowing them to form a floating floor that sits above the subfloor rather than being glued down.

Why choose it

·       Rigid core: Strong, stable planks provide a “real floor” feel.

·       Quick and simple installation: Click-lock system makes fitting faster and easier.

·       Built-in underlay: Many products include acoustic and comfort benefits.

·       Water-resistant: Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas.

·       Flexible for renovations: Can adapt to minor subfloor imperfections and speed up installation.

Best uses

·       Busy residential areas such as living rooms, kitchens, and hallways

·       Renovation projects where a quicker installation is desirable

·       Spaces with minor subfloor imperfections

·       DIY-friendly installations or tight turnaround projects

Considerations

·       Slightly thicker than gluedown flooring, so floor height is raised a little

·       Expansion gaps are needed around the perimeter because it’s a floating floor

Choosing the Right Option

Both flooring systems offer durability, attractive designs, and easy maintenance, but their strengths lie in different areas:

·       Gluedown LVT: Permanent, ultra-stable, and perfect for large commercial or residential spaces where a seamless finish is desired.

·       SPC Click Flooring: Flexible, fast to install, and highly water-resistant — ideal for busy homes and renovation projects.

The right choice comes down to installation method, subfloor conditions, and project needs.

Common Misconceptions About Vinyl Flooring

“Thicker flooring is always better”
Not necessarily. While SPC click flooring is thicker, performance depends largely on the wear layer. A 2.5mm gluedown LVT with a robust 0.55mm wear layer can outperform a thicker product in commercial settings.

“Click flooring is stronger than gluedown flooring”
Both are durable, but in different ways. Gluedown LVT becomes fully bonded to the subfloor, creating a highly stable surface. SPC click flooring uses a rigid core and floating design for convenience and speed.

“All vinyl flooring is the same”
Vinyl comes in many formats. Installation method, core construction, wear layer thickness, and intended use all make a difference. Knowing these distinctions ensures you pick the right floor for your environment.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Dryback LVT (2.5mm)	SPC Click (5–6mm)
Thickness	Ultra-thin (~2.5mm) – keeps floor heights low	Thicker (~5–6mm) – gives a substantial, rigid feel
Installation	Glued down – permanent, ultra-stable	Click together (floating) – fast, flexible, DIY-friendly
Floor Height Impact	Minimal – ideal for doorways and renovations	Slightly raised – adds rigidity and “real floor” feel
Underfoot Feel	Smooth and grounded	Solid, firm, like wood or stone
Durability	Tough and long-lasting – commercial and residential	High traffic & heavy furniture – perfect for busy homes or offices
Water Resistance	Reliable for occasional spills	Highly water-resistant – perfect for wet areas
Subfloor Needs	Best on level, clean floors	Adapts to minor imperfections
Best Uses	Commercial spaces, permanent residential floors	Busy homes, kitchens, bathrooms, fast installations
Cost	Cost-effective	Slightly higher – added thickness and installation flexibility

 

Bottom line: Both are excellent options, but your choice depends on your space, priorities and who is installing the flooring.

·       Go for Dryback LVT when you want a permanent, seamless, professional finish.

·       Choose SPC Click Flooring for flexibility and speed – it’s perfect for modern homes or fast renovations.