In case you are remodelling a house in Malaysia, you must have heard the hype about SPC flooring. It has risen and replaced the traditional laminate and hardwood as the favorite flooring material in the contemporary interior, not just in high-rise condos in KL, but in the suburbia at the landed properties as well.
But what exactly is it? Is it really waterproof? And what about choosing the correct specs for your house? We cover it in this guide, and why the best SPC flooring in Malaysia has to offer in terms of flooring your premises.
But what exactly is it? Is it really waterproof? And what about choosing the correct specs for your house? We cover it in this guide, and why the best SPC flooring in Malaysia has to offer in terms of flooring your premises.
What Is SPC Flooring?
S.P.C is an abbreviation of Stone Plastic Composite (or Stone Polymer Composite). It is an improvement of ordinary luxury vinyl tiles (LVT).
Consider it to be the heavy-duty version of vinyl. Traditional vinyl is bendable whereas SPC is designed with a limestone (calcium carbonate), plastic dust (PVC) and stabilizers core. This makes it an incredibly solid, dense and rigid core which is more of a real stone or wood underfoot as compared to the plastic.
The 4 Layers of UV Protection Coating
You have to see the way it is built to see why it takes so long:
Wear Layer: This is the transparent top-coat that prevents scratches, stains and fading.
Vinyl Top Layer: This is a layer engraving design of high-definition that replicates a stone texture or a wood grain.
SPC Core: The waterproof and hard backbone that is composed of limestone and PVC.
Underlayment (Optional but Recommended): It can be attached in place with sound absorbing foam (e.g. IXPE) or comfort (e.g. EVA foam).
Why SPC is Perfect for the Malaysian Climate
Malaysia’s tropical weather comes with two major challenges for flooring: high humidity and pests. Here is why SPC is the superior solution compared to traditional parquet or laminate.
1. 100% Waterproof and Humidity Resistant
In our humid climate, wood expands and laminate can swell. SPC flooring is dimensionally stable. It does not warp or buckle when exposed to moisture, making it safe for kitchens, laundry areas, and even bathrooms (dry zones).
2. Totally Termite-Proof
Termites are a nightmare for Malaysian homeowners with parquet flooring. Because SPC is made from stone and polymer, it is biologically inert. Termites cannot eat it, saving you thousands in potential repair costs down the road.
3. Cool and Comfortable
Unlike ceramic tiles which can feel icy cold in the morning, or solid wood which requires maintenance, SPC offers a comfortable middle ground. It stays relatively cool—perfect for our hot weather—but feels softer underfoot than tiles.
1. 100% Waterproof and Humidity Resistant
In our humid climate, wood expands and laminate can swell. SPC flooring is dimensionally stable. It does not warp or buckle when exposed to moisture, making it safe for kitchens, laundry areas, and even bathrooms (dry zones).
2. Totally Termite-Proof
Termites are a nightmare for Malaysian homeowners with parquet flooring. Because SPC is made from stone and polymer, it is biologically inert. Termites cannot eat it, saving you thousands in potential repair costs down the road.
3. Cool and Comfortable
Unlike ceramic tiles which can feel icy cold in the morning, or solid wood which requires maintenance, SPC offers a comfortable middle ground. It stays relatively cool—perfect for our hot weather—but feels softer underfoot than tiles.
How to Choose the Best SPC Flooring in Malaysia
Not all planks are created equal. When browsing for an SPC floor supplier, pay attention to these three technical specs to ensure you are getting quality material.
Check the Total Thickness
Standard planks usually range from 4mm to 6.5mm.Check the Wear Layer
This is arguably more important than total thickness. The wear layer determines how easily the floor scratches.Ask About the Underlay (IXPE)
If you live in a condo or apartment, soundproofing is vital. Look for a SPC flooring supplier in Malaysia that offers planks with pre-attached IXPE underlay. This reduces the hollow “tapping” sound when walking with shoes on and dampens noise transfer to the neighbor downstairs.
Installation: Can You Install Over Tiles?
Yes! One of the biggest advantages of SPC is that it can be installed directly over existing subfloors, including cement and ceramic tiles.
Because SPC is rigid, it won’t “telegraph” (reveal) the grout lines of the tiles underneath, provided the subfloor is level. This makes it a favorite for quick renovations as you don’t need to hack up your old slippery tiles—saving you time, mess, and money.
While many homeowners attempt DIY, hiring a professional SPC floor supplier for installation is often better. They will ensure the subfloor is perfectly leveled (using self-leveling compound if necessary) to prevent the clicking mechanism from breaking over time.
Because SPC is rigid, it won’t “telegraph” (reveal) the grout lines of the tiles underneath, provided the subfloor is level. This makes it a favorite for quick renovations as you don’t need to hack up your old slippery tiles—saving you time, mess, and money.
While many homeowners attempt DIY, hiring a professional SPC floor supplier for installation is often better. They will ensure the subfloor is perfectly leveled (using self-leveling compound if necessary) to prevent the clicking mechanism from breaking over time.
Easy Maintenance Tips
Keeping your floors looking new is effortless.
Daily: Sweep or vacuum to remove dust and grit.
Weekly: Mop with a damp mop using water or a mild, pH-neutral cleaner.
Avoid: Steam cleaners, wax, or harsh chemicals like bleach, as these can dull the wear layer.
Furniture: Use felt pads on chair legs to prevent deep scratches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is SPC flooring safe for indoor air quality?
Yes. High-quality SPC is free from formaldehyde and heavy metals. Always check if your supplier has certification (like FloorScore) to ensure the product is low-VOC and safe for children.
2. Can I use SPC in the bathroom?
You can use it in the dry area (vanity area). However, for the wet shower area, ceramic tiles are still recommended as water can seep through the tiny joints of SPC planks if flooded constantly.
3. Does sunlight fade the color?
While the wear layer has UV protection, prolonged exposure to harsh direct sunlight (like at a sliding door) can cause fading over years. We recommend using curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day.
Yes. High-quality SPC is free from formaldehyde and heavy metals. Always check if your supplier has certification (like FloorScore) to ensure the product is low-VOC and safe for children.
2. Can I use SPC in the bathroom?
You can use it in the dry area (vanity area). However, for the wet shower area, ceramic tiles are still recommended as water can seep through the tiny joints of SPC planks if flooded constantly.
3. Does sunlight fade the color?
While the wear layer has UV protection, prolonged exposure to harsh direct sunlight (like at a sliding door) can cause fading over years. We recommend using curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a floor that combines the elegance of wood with the durability of stone, SPC flooring is the clear winner for Malaysian homes. It tackles our humidity and termite issues head-on while offering a luxurious look at a fraction of the cost of solid timber.
Whether you need a durable 0.5mm wear layer for your busy living room or a budget-friendly option for a bedroom, finding the right SPC flooring supplier in Malaysia is your next step. Always ask for samples to see the texture and color in your own lighting before committing!
Looking for the best SPC flooring has to offer? Contact us today to view our premium range of water-resistant, anti-termite designs.
Whether you need a durable 0.5mm wear layer for your busy living room or a budget-friendly option for a bedroom, finding the right SPC flooring supplier in Malaysia is your next step. Always ask for samples to see the texture and color in your own lighting before committing!
Looking for the best SPC flooring has to offer? Contact us today to view our premium range of water-resistant, anti-termite designs.