Modern bathroom with light oak herringbone SPC flooring, freestanding bath and walk-in shower showcasing waterproof luxury vinyl flooring

Is LVT/SPC Flooring Waterproof? Everything You Need To Know Before You Buy

Is LVT or SPC Flooring Waterproof?

Yes, most modern LVT flooring and SPC flooring is waterproof, making it a brilliant choice for busy homes, kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, hallways and open-plan living spaces. All KWIK Floors flooring is waterproof, so you can shop with confidence that you are getting quality products. 

However, there is one important thing to understand:

The flooring itself is waterproof, but it still needs to be fitted correctly.

That means spills, splashes, muddy shoes and everyday household moisture are usually no problem, but poor installation, unsealed edges or existing damp issues underneath the floor can still cause problems over time.

If you are looking for stylish wood-effect flooring that can handle family life, pets, kitchen spills and bathroom splashes, waterproof LVT or SPC click flooring is one of the most practical options available.

What Is Waterproof LVT Flooring?

LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile. It is designed to give you the look of real wood or tiles (stone, concrete, marble) but with the everyday practicality of vinyl.

Waterproof LVT flooring is popular because it is:

  • Easy to clean
  • Easy to install & DIY friendly 
  • Comfortable underfoot
  • Available in realistic wood and stone-effect designs
  • Suitable for busy family homes
  • More water-resistant than laminate
  • A great choice for kitchens, bathrooms and utility rooms

Many shoppers also search for LVT using different names, including:

  • Luxury vinyl flooring
  • Click vinyl flooring
  • Waterproof vinyl flooring
  • Vinyl plank flooring
  • Wood-effect vinyl flooring
  • Click LVT flooring

So, if you have been searching online and seeing lots of different terms, don’t worry -  they often refer to very similar types of flooring.

What Is SPC Flooring?

SPC waterproof flooring construction infographic by KWIK Floors showing the layered composition of Stone Polymer Composite (SPC) flooring, including UV coating, wear layer, décor film, rigid SPC core and integrated underlay. Displayed alongside a luxury herringbone wood-effect waterproof floor installed in a modern bathroom. Highlights include 100% waterproof performance, durability, pet-friendly design, easy maintenance and suitability for underfloor heating.

Nobody seems to understand what SPC actually is. SPC flooring is a type of luxury vinyl flooring with a strong rigid core.

SPC stands for Stone Polymer Composite or Stone Plastic Composite. In simple terms, this means the flooring has a tougher, more stable core than traditional flexible vinyl.

SPC flooring is often described online as:

  • Rigid core LVT
  • Click LVT
  • Waterproof click vinyl
  • Luxury click vinyl flooring
  • Vinyl flooring with built-in underlay
  • Rigid vinyl plank flooring

This is where it can get confusing for customers. Many people do not search for “SPC flooring” because they have never heard of the term. Instead, they search for “waterproof LVT”, “click vinyl flooring” or “LVT with built-in underlay”.

SPC is the construction behind the product. LVT is the term most customers already recognise. Ok, so what does this actually mean to me? 

Is SPC Flooring More Waterproof Than Laminate?

Yes. SPC flooring is a much better choice than laminate if water resistance is important to you and your family.

Laminate flooring usually contains a wood-based core, which means it can swell, lift or become damaged if water gets into the joints. This is why laminate is not always ideal for bathrooms, utility rooms or busy kitchens.

SPC flooring has a waterproof rigid core, making it far better suited to areas where spills and splashes happen regularly.

SPC flooring construction infographic showing the layered structure of waterproof Stone Polymer Composite flooring, including wear layer, décor film, rigid SPC core and integrated underlay. Explains the benefits of SPC flooring including waterproof performance, durability, underfloor heating compatibility, easy maintenance and suitability for bathrooms, kitchens and busy family homes.

This makes SPC flooring ideal for:

  • Kitchens
  • Bathrooms
  • Downstairs toilets
  • Utility rooms
  • Hallways
  • Boot rooms
  • Open-plan kitchen diners
  • Homes with pets
  • Homes with children

If you have ever had laminate swell near a dishwasher, washing machine, back door or water bowl, waterproof SPC flooring is a much more practical and durable alternative.

Can Waterproof LVT Be Used In Kitchens?

Yes, waterproof LVT and SPC flooring are excellent choices for kitchens.

Kitchens are one of the hardest-working rooms in the home. Between cooking, washing up, dropped drinks, muddy shoes, pet bowls and everyday family life, your floor needs to cope with a lot.

Waterproof LVT/SPC flooring works well in kitchens because it is:

  • Water resistant for everyday spills
  • Easy to mop and maintain
  • Warmer underfoot than tiles
  • Softer and quieter than ceramic flooring
  • Available in stylish oak, grey, natural wood and herringbone designs
  • Suitable for modern open-plan spaces

For many households, it gives the best balance of style and practicality.

Can Waterproof LVT Be Used In Bathrooms?


Pet-friendly waterproof SPC herringbone flooring in a luxury modern bathroom with a dog, freestanding bath and contemporary interior design.

Yes, waterproof LVT and SPC flooring can be used in bathrooms, cloakrooms and en-suites.

It is a great option if you want a warmer, more comfortable alternative to ceramic tiles.

Bathroom flooring needs to handle:

  • Splashes from the bath or shower
  • Steam and humidity
  • Wet feet
  • Regular cleaning
  • Daily wear and tear

SPC click flooring is particularly useful because it combines a waterproof surface with a rigid core and easy-clean finish.

The key is making sure the floor is installed properly, especially around edges, toilets, baths, showers and doorways.

Does Waterproof Flooring Mean Flood-proof?

No - and this is important.

Waterproof flooring is designed to handle everyday spills, splashes and moisture. It does not mean the room is completely flood-proof.

For example, if a washing machine leaks heavily or water is left sitting for a long time, it could still get under the flooring through the edges of the room or around pipework.

The floorboards themselves may be waterproof, but water can still travel underneath if the room is not properly protected.

So, the best advice is:

Wipe up spills when you notice them and make sure your flooring is fitted correctly.

Is LVT/SPC Flooring Good For Pets?

Yes, waterproof LVT and SPC flooring are excellent choices for homes with dogs and cats.

Pet owners often need flooring that can handle:

  • Muddy paws
  • Water bowls
  • Pet accidents
  • Scratches from claws
  • Regular cleaning
  • Everyday mess

SPC flooring is a practical choice because it is easy to clean, hard-wearing and more resistant to moisture than laminate or wood flooring.

It also gives you the stylish look of real wood without the same level of maintenance.

For dog owners especially, waterproof LVT and SPC flooring is a great option for kitchens, hallways, living rooms and utility spaces.

Is Waterproof LVT Easy To Clean?

Woman cleaning waterproof SPC flooring in a modern bathroom with a dog, showcasing pet-friendly luxury vinyl flooring.

Yes. One of the biggest benefits of LVT and SPC flooring is how easy it is to look after.

For everyday cleaning, you usually only need to:

  • Sweep or vacuum regularly
  • Wipe up spills
  • Mop with a suitable floor cleaner
  • Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads
  • Use felt pads under furniture
  • Use mats near entrance doors to catch grit and dirt

Unlike real wood, waterproof vinyl flooring does not need sanding, sealing or specialist maintenance.

That makes it ideal for busy households that want a stylish floor without constant upkeep.

Is Waterproof LVT Suitable For Underfloor Heating?

Many LVT and SPC floors are suitable for use with water-based underfloor heating and electric underfloor heating mats, but it is important to check the product specification before installation.

If you are planning to use LVT or SPC with underfloor heating, always make sure:

  • The product is suitable for underfloor heating
  • The temperature limit is followed
  • The subfloor is prepared correctly
  • The heating system is commissioned properly
  • The floor is installed according to the manufacturer’s guidance

This helps protect your floor and ensures the best long-term performance.

LVT vs SPC: So Which Is Better For Waterproof Flooring?

Both LVT and SPC can be waterproof, but SPC is often the better choice for busy homes because of its rigid core. See a quick snapshot below to help compare the two flooring materials. 

SPC Flooring vs Traditional LVT comparison chart showing the key differences between waterproof SPC flooring and luxury vinyl tile flooring. Infographic compares waterproof performance, rigid core construction, bathroom suitability, kitchen suitability, click installation, built-in underlay, pet-friendly features and compatibility with underfloor heating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Waterproof LVT/SPC Flooring 

 

Is LVT flooring waterproof?

Yes, many LVT floors are waterproof and suitable for kitchens, bathrooms and utility rooms, but be cautious, as many may only be water-resistant, which means they would not be ideal for bathrooms and heavy-traffic areas like hallways. Always check the individual product specification before buying.

Is SPC flooring waterproof?

Yes, SPC flooring is waterproof and designed to handle everyday spills, splashes and moisture.

Can LVT flooring go in a bathroom?

Yes, waterproof LVT can be used in bathrooms, provided it is installed correctly and the edges are properly finished.

Can SPC flooring go in a kitchen?

Yes, SPC flooring is an excellent choice for kitchens because it is waterproof, durable and easy to clean.

Is waterproof LVT better than laminate?

For wet areas, yes. Waterproof LVT and SPC flooring are generally better than laminate because they are much more resistant to water damage and more durable.

Does waterproof flooring need sealing?

The planks themselves do not usually need sealing, but edges around walls, baths, showers and pipework may need careful finishing depending on the room.

Is SPC flooring good for dogs?

What is the difference between SPC flooring and LVT flooring? This infographic compares SPC flooring and traditional luxury vinyl tile (LVT), highlighting the benefits of SPC flooring including a rigid core, 100% waterproof construction, suitability for bathrooms and kitchens, built-in underlay, click-lock installation, pet-friendly durability and compatibility with underfloor heating systems.

Yes, SPC flooring is a practical choice for dog owners because it is waterproof, durable and easy to clean.

Can water get under LVT flooring?

Yes, water can still get underneath if it enters around the edges of the room, through gaps, or from an installation issue. This is why correct fitting is important.

Is click vinyl flooring waterproof?

Yes! Most rigid core SPC products are waterproof, though always check the LVT, as some laminate vinyl floors are only water-resistant. Always check the product details before ordering.

Is LVT suitable for underfloor heating?

Many LVT and SPC floors are suitable for underfloor heating, but you should always follow the manufacturer’s guidance.

Final Thoughts: Is Waterproof LVT/SPC Flooring Worth It?

Yes. If you want a stylish floor that looks like real wood but can handle everyday life, waterproof LVT or SPC flooring is a fantastic choice.

It is especially useful for busy homes, kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, utility rooms and pet-friendly spaces.

For many customers, SPC flooring offers the perfect balance of:

  • Waterproof performance
  • Realistic wood-effect design
  • Easy cleaning
  • Click installation
  • Comfortable feel underfoot
  • Durability for family life

So, if you are looking for waterproof flooring that is practical, stylish and easy to live with, LVT/SPC flooring is one of the best options to consider.

Shop Waterproof LVT & SPC Flooring

Explore our collection of waterproof click vinyl and SPC flooring at KWIK Floors. Choose from stylish oak, grey, natural wood and herringbone designs, all created for modern homes and everyday living.

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