What is WPC and why is it chosen over Hardwood?

　　Wood Plastic Composite or WPC is vinyl flooring that appeals to wood lovers. They are choosing WPC over solid hardwood. This could be because hardwood flooring is an expensive ordeal even for those who can afford it. Maintaining it proves to be an unnecessary hassle and also heavy on the pockets. If you have ever had hardwood floors underfoot, you would know the struggles accompanied.

　　It is important to understand the preference of WPC over actual solid hardwood. This is so that you can make a sound buying decision. Hardwood flooring is not bad to use, it has been used for years by people over the world. However, the invention of different types of flooring has eliminated the drawback caused by hardwood. This made hardwood a less chosen type of flooring, thereby, being replaced by vinyl, laminates, and much more.

　　Solid hardwood woes

　　If maintained well, hardwood can last for over a hundred years. They are a good investment. Also, if regularly cleaned, vacuumed, and mopped then dust, dirt, and debris seldom appear.

　　Take a look at its impressive set of varieties:

　　· Oak (Red and White)

　　· Australian Cypress

　　· Brazilian Chestnut

　　· Santos Mahogany

　　· Brazilian Walnut

　　· Brazilian cherry

　　· Tigerwood

　　· Hickory

　　· Teak

　　Hardwood is also non-toxic to the environment. It does not attract any dust mites, parasites, or spores. Doctors recommend wooden flooring for children suffering from allergies.

　　However, maintenance isn’t that easy, and solid hardwood can only be installed in a few favorable environmental conditions.

　　The cost of installing wooden floors is high including the installation services required.

　　Wood is prone to termite attacks. Once the termites settle in, it entails the most difficult process to get them removed and ensure they don’t come back again.

　　Other woes are that hardwood flooring gets easily damaged and ultimately destroyed during water seepage issues. Water seepage in-turn results in the growth of mold or fungus. Hardwood is easily prone to scratches, crowning, and expansion of edges.

　　What is WPC?

　　WPC is durable due to its core structure. It is vinyl flooring engineered to be waterproof. So, what do we mean when we say wood plastic composite? WPC is made from recycled wood pulp and plastic composites. The properties of both wood and plastic are blended.

　　Layers that make-up WPC

　　· Wear layer: The top-most or wear layer is thin. It helps to resist excessive wear and stains. It is due to the wear layer that cleaning becomes easy.

　　· Vinyl layer: The vinyl or the print layer is a durable second layer that contains the imagery of the flooring color and pattern.

　　· WPC core: The core is the center-most thickest layer in the plank. This core is made of recycled wood pulp and plastic composites. It is stable and waterproof.

　　· Attached underlayment: The underlayment is attached at the base of the plank. It is to absorb noise and provide comfort, and soft cushioning to the plank.

　　Why is WPC chosen over hardwood?

　　We tried looking for the drawbacks of using WPC flooring. We couldn’t find much as compared to its benefits.

　　1. WPC is affordable as compared to solid hardwood.

　　2. It can be easily installed. You can DIY it too.

　　3. It is waterproof which means that this flooring can be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

　　4. It is a sound absorber and so, walking is quiet and disturbs no one!

　　5. Due to WPC’s soft underlayment attached, the flooring is soft to the feet while walking.

　　6. WPC is highly resistant to stains and scratches which makes it incredibly durable.

　　7. Wood vinyl tiles and planks come in a variety of styles, textures, colors, and patterns.

　　Okay, so let’s be fair to hardwood and point out the drawbacks of WPC vinyl flooring.

　　1. Hardwood has a consistent layout across the room. On the other hand, vinyl wood is not entirely wood, so its designs are repetitive across the room.

　　2. Is WPC eco-friendly? We would say yes – with a clause! There have been concerns that WPC is not made under environment-friendly conditions. Do your research before selecting the seller. However, WPC is phthalate-free. Phthalates are toxic compounds that adversely affect health in the long term.

　　3. WPC is stylish and durable but unlike hardwood, it does not offer much value to the house.

　　Buying tips for WPC vinyl

　　When planning to buy WPC vinyl flooring, make sure to check the thickness. The thicker they come, the better as they are sturdier and provide floor stability. The thickness ranges from 4 to 20 mm for the wear layer on top.

　　Some of the planks are named based on the features they provide, such as:

　　· Waterproof vinyl flooring

　　· Enhanced vinyl plank

　　· Engineered luxury vinyl flooring

　　We understand that all decisions boil down to the cost and the home floor requirements. However, quality plays a significant role too. So, what would be your choice of preference – hardwood or WPC flooring? Now, that you know the benefits and drawbacks of both, it will be easier to make a decision.