Seeking opinion on laminate and SPC flooring for my condo. Wish to lay wood flooring above the existing tiles.

Anyone with experience in either one or both of these artificial timber floorings?

Any good brand/company recommendations?

Laminate- rear recycle wood underneath, soft, cheap, not last if heavy use, not waterproof.


SPC- hard, last longer, no wood component, price mid range, waterproof.

SPC is the way to go. Esp the interlock system is good. Less gap when the material settle down or due to weather hot/cold.

nowdays condo using laminate on those room...
laminate really not last longer especially if u mop, u need very very dry... otherwise can ur laminate jialat.

Some saying laminate has more natural feel compared to SPC..

Also are all SPC from China?

High quality laminate will mimic the noise and the "warmth" of natural wood better, but have similar problems to wood (noisy, not water resistant, not durable, susceptible to mold and mildew). Laminate is thicker than SPC.

SPC tends to get cold and has very rigid feel, but some prefer that it's durable and water resistant. SPC is more durable and soundproof. SPC will not expand/warp as much as laminate (important if there's large temperature and moisture changes), so it's suitable for areas that might get wet (kitchen, laundry yard in high rise), and can use wet mop.

but both types if you buy low quality/cheap will suxx lah, cannot compare to wood planks

SPC got manufacturer in Korea, Thailand, Germany etc. Malaysia also have company that makes SPC.

This post has been edited by DragonReine: Oct 11 2022, 08:20 AM

Regardless of whether SPC or not, subfloor leveling is important. It has to be flat. Otherwise, the SPC will crack at the joints.

The recommended installation of using PE form and plastic sheet is inadequate. I normally used carpet underlay which is 3-5mm thick.

Plus, it is reversible and perfect for those renting properties. When it is time to move out, simply dismantle everything like Lego blocks, and reinstall back at the new location. U will lose 10-15% due to odd corners or broken pieces but it is negligible.