Rigid-core products (SPC and WPC) are engineered to be stiff, which allows them to span minor subfloor dips without showing 'telegraphing' or surface defects. They typically feature a click-lock system for floating installations. Flexible LVP, usually a glue-down or high-quality thin click product, is made of solid vinyl and requires a perfectly smooth subfloor, as its flexibility allows it to conform to every bump and crack beneath it over time.
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What are the structural differences between rigid-core planks and flexible LVP?
Rigid-core planks consist of a dense stone or wood composite layer that resists indentation, whereas flexible LVP is pliable and designed to contour to subfloor imperfections. Rigid-core is more stable, while flexible LVP offers a softer feel.