Flooring can be difficult to select, especially if you’re unsure of the materials and possible benefits they’ll yield. But not to worry - that’s where we spring into action!
Let’s look into Wood Plastic Composite (WPC). Never heard of it? No problem! We’ll explain why it’s quite a unique kind of flooring and why there are so many different pros to having it installed in your home. After taking a detailed look into this material and how it can be utilized in your household, hopefully, we can help make this remodeling decision a little easier, so you can save your energy for all the other decisions on your plate!
Now let’s grab the hardwood samples and get going!
Defining Wood Plastic Composite
WPC is best defined as a wood plastic composite, which is a type of material that is designed and comprised of a blend of natural wood, plastic, and other fibers. It can also contain the following elements.
· Bark
· Unused woodworking materials
· Peanut hulls
· Bamboo
· Sawdust
· Pulp
All of these materials are then mixed in to officially form WPC.
This specific type of flooring is great because it’s actually a sustainable composite made of unused recyclable materials. Plus, after WPC is made, it can also be recycled and turn into a new form of itself. Isn’t that perfect? In fact, it’s one of the best premium materials that can continue to be recycled into new products.
The Benefits Of WPC
Now that we know what WPC flooring is composed of, we’ll be able to better establish the benefits it yields. Let’s take a look at all of its positives and why so many homeowners proudly use it as their hardwood flooring of choice!
It’s Waterproof
WPC is guaranteed to be waterproof, and you wouldn’t want it any other way. When it comes to kitchens and bathrooms, especially, water will much more likely hit the floor, and you want to be worry-free (with a mop in hand) when it happens.
As soon as the liquid hits its surface, WPC will work to repel it. In fact, this type of flooring was designed with the purpose of preventing moisture and water damage to your flooring.
It’s A More Resilient Type Of Flooring
Standing on your feet all day on a tough surface can really hurt and make your body feel achy and sore. WPC, on the other hand, has a specially made core that will prevent your feet, back, and body from hurting in your own home. With the presence of a much thicker plank, it will feel sturdier, and your body will feel much better over time as well.
There’s A Realistic Wood And Stone Appearance
Even though it’s not traditional hardwood flooring, it can certainly be perceived in that way. Many homeowners love the idea of having luxury vinyl floors because they’re truly able to mimic the appearance and natural materials of wood and stone.
WPC also happens to be one of the best vinyl floors available on the market, so the resemblance adds even more value to the flooring and the home.
WPC Is Built To Last
Since it’s durable and long-lasting, you don’t have to fret about ripping up your floors too soon. WPC planks are sufficiently thick and dense, so they can weather through several years of high foot traffic and whatever else you through their way! WPC flooring is also available in varying levels of thickness for a wear layer, so it provides premium resistance to scratching and scarring.
WPC is the perfect flooring feature for an area of your home that endures high foot traffic or even for a commercial business.
It Can Completely Fix The Subfloor
WPC flooring is the one type of flooring that can undoubtedly fix the appearance of an imperfect subfloor. In fact, the plank density and sufficient level of thickness allow the floor to be installed without the need to even prepare an uneven subfloor. Music to the ears, right?
This is perfect for getting the job done quickly and efficiently without the need to invest more time in the preparation stages.
WPC Is Trending In Style
Did you know that WPC flooring is actually trending right now? What’s also interesting to know is that vinyl itself has hit the top of the flooring charts. So, your WPC flooring will be “the talk of the town!”
For those that are seeking the highly requested traditional wood looks, this type of flooring is an excellent alternative that yields great results. Plus, with each trending wood or stone shade, you can almost always expect WPC floors to have a similar match for every style and preference.
You Can Install It Yourself
Forget about hiring the professionals! You have the power to be your very own home improvement guru!
For those who like to take these kinds of projects head-on, go right ahead! It’s actually a super easy and rewarding process. All you have to do is interlock the planks together, utilizing the “tongue and groove” system. Best of all, the installation can just float over your existing floors with no problems at all. Easy, right?
It’s Low Maintenance
If you have a broom, mop, and a little soap and water, cleaning your floors will truly be a breeze. Trust us! WPC flooring is super low maintenance, so don’t fret if you happen to skip a cleaning (or two). A little sweep up of dust will have your floors looking gorgeous and ready for company!
However, make sure not to completely neglect the cleaning of your WPC floors. A simple, regular scheduled cleaning will do wonders for them. You can even set your own schedule and ensure that they are cleaned along with the rest of the home.
The Cons Of WPC
While there are several pros to installing WPC flooring in your home, there is always the possibility of a few disadvantages, so it’s best to be aware of these before making your final selection and purchase. Take a look at the following two ways WPC flooring could potentially not be for you.
Denting Is A Possibility
It’s known that WPC flooring is quite durable but not as durable as other flooring options such as SPC flooring. WPC possesses a slightly softer core, which is great for an added layer of comfort. However, it means that this kind of flooring is more likely to have scratches and dents if something heavy is dropped.
WPC Is Known To Be A More Expensive Option
WPC is a fantastic option, but that also means that you may have to invest slightly more money to get what you want. Luckily, there are several companies out there who are focusing on developing their own WPC lines to cut costs as much as possible. Why? This new trend is due to the fact that the supply is now officially meeting the demand.
It’s also good to know that WPC flooring is less expensive than some solid hardwood options and requires less maintenance.
Our Final Thoughts
Do you think WPC flooring is the one for you? Hardwood flooring can sometimes be like trying on shoes. After trying samples out at home, you need to see which one is ultimately the perfect fit.
Since this specific hardwood flooring is waterproof and has a strong sense of durability, we find that the material will work perfectly for those with children or pets in their household. Plus, there’s a wide range of shades that you can run all throughout your household to create different looks in each room. And we love the possibilities! Once you go WPC, you may never go back!
Sources:
https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/plastics-rubber/composite-wood-plastic/
https://www.generalkinematics.com/blog/wood-plastic-composite-uses-benefits/
https://www.fcnews.net/2016/01/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-wpc/
