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By Tileswale
A choice of flooring is always a critical one for the final look of the interiors of any premise – residential or commercial. It always looks remarkable when the flooring is done perfectly.
In recent years there has been a popular use of wood polymer composite flooring. This has been a useful inclusion for new floors or even when used as part of renovation work over existing floors as well.
Modern flooring requirements are mostly about quick installations, durability, and ease of maintenance. There are several manufactured options available in this segment of flooring and WPC is one of the more popular ones albeit with some good points of advantage to its name.
WPC flooring has emerged as a popular name for engineered flooring material. There are several advantages to this innovative style and presents a wide range of designs and color schemes for flooring options.
WPC flooring stands for wood plastic composite flooring. This is a manufactured vinyl flooring material that is available in the design of a plank or even a tile; it is made with recycled wooden pulp along with the use of polymer composites.
There are at least 3 layers in its engineering and these are designed to give a stable and durable floor with a comfortable feel under your feet.
There is a standard difference that is found in WPC vinyl plank flooring when compared with the normal vinyl flooring material.
The manufacturing of a WPC vinyl flooring is done with a combined use of wood pulp along with thermoplastics in its core. There is no use of any toxic ingredients like lead, methanol, or urea.
When compared with a standard vinyl flooring available in the market today, the WPC flooring is a thicker material and hence more comfortable under the feet.
There may be some similarities with a standard vinyl flooring but a WPC vinyl flooring has some basic changes in its manufacturing that make it stronger and durable along with a more environment-friendly composition.
Each layer is composed with perfection to enable a better finish and comfortability when used for both exterior and interior places of a premise.
These are scratch-resistant and waterproof too.
Source: https://www.trioflor.net/
There are 3 main layers of a WPC plank. There is a base layer which is also referred to as the backing, there is a middle layer or the core. Finally, there is a top layer which is the visible WPC vinyl flooring as seen when used.
The bottom layer or the backing is made with wood plastic composite backing instead of the usual PVC backing seen in most vinyl flooring. This part of composed of manufactured material that is made from recycled wood pulp and thermoplastics.
The middle layer or the core layer comprises wood materials, foaming agents, plasticizers, and calcium carbonate among a few other materials.
The final or the top layer of the WPC flooring comprises regular vinyl material that is made in a variety of designs and patterns.
This also has a transparent film-like covering on it that protects against scratches and heat considerably. It plays an important part in the lasting finish of the WPC floors.
There is a common comparison made often between the use of WPC vinyl flooring and that of Laminate flooring.
Undoubtedly both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages – the final question being which is better.
Laminate flooring is good but WPC flooring is considered to be better when it's to the manufacturing and durability factor; however, the pricing of WPC will be comparatively higher.
One of the main reasons people opt for laminate flooring is its close resemblance to hardwood flooring. But just like hardwood, this is also not waterproof or scratch-resistant which affects its durability and lasting finish. It may be noted here that refinishing laminate floors is not possible.
Ease of cleaning is also an issue especially if you are using laminate flooring for your homes. You cannot clean these regularly with a damp mop or use cleaning agents on them. Very rare mopping will be possible.
During installation use of an underlay is a mandatory requirement for Laminate floors as compared with WPC flooring. There is no need for an underlay in the case of the WPC boards that are already prepared for installations directly.
LVT or LVP is the same that stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile or Luxury Vinyl Plank; this is an alternative to hardwood flooring and is available in a very attractive range of designs.
The difference between LVT and LVP is the availability in the form of planks or tile shapes.
Coming to the difference between WPC and LVT or LVP flooring, there are pros and cons for both.
Undoubtedly LVP flooring is exquisite in replicating real hardwood flooring with the correct placement of its planks. There is a fine wood-like texture that is unmistakable.
Though LVT and LVP surfaces are very durable they do wear off when heavy items like furniture and appliances are placed on them. These are not scratch resistant or waterproof which makes it difficult to maintain them despite the durability factor.
LVT and LVP flooring are not stain-resistant or flame resistant. Exposure to low heat or flames will not be endurable in this type of flooring.
However, WPC wooden flooring comes with some added advantages of being waterproof and scratch-resistant which add to its benefits.
The use of WPC wooden flooring comes with several advantages to its credit.
It has a comfortable feel to the feet touch that gives a cushiony effect. Being thicker in its composition there is greater stability available to the flooring.
Another huge advantage is the installation and placement of the WPC wooden flooring. There is no need for an underlay or any flooring. This is capable of providing a smooth and even finishing to a surface as it is.
Additional advantages are as follows.
This is fire resistant
There is a transparent film-like covering on the topmost layer of the WPC that makes it scratch-resistant
Waterproof
Available and moldable in various shapes and sizes which can be placed in various ways and designs
Environment friendly and free of toxic ingredients
Lasting finish and durability
Easy to maintain and clean thus ensuring a higher standard of hygiene
These are some of the basic advantages of wood polymer composite flooring. There are additional advantages of the availability of a wide range of designs and colors that enhance the look of the interiors with a lasting finish.
There is always a flip side to everything and WPC flooring is no exception. There are a few things that can be spoken against it as well.
The first thing that is often pointed at is the price range which is a bit on the higher side with the use of WPC plank flooring.
The second factor commonly mentioned is its lack of similarity with the natural texture of wood. Well, that is discountable considering that this is not exactly wood; wooden or hardwood floors have their own set of disadvantages when in use.
Another disadvantage that comes in the way of working on WPC plank flooring is the inability to use laser cutters. Using this will burn the boards and naturally takes away the advantage of using the precision of a laser cutter.
It is always important to make an informed decision when you purchase something; this is the same when you make an important decision in finalizing the designs of flooring for your home or office.
The use of WPC flooring comes with certain aspects that one should be aware of before making a purchase.
One of the primary things to consider is the wood plastic composite flooring which has a fair share of use of wood and plastic; hence the flooring material will have the basic disadvantages of both these raw materials.
You will be benefitting from a great-looking floor that is easy to maintain and comes with robust durability.
But it may be noteworthy that WPC tile floors are not very comfortable in high-temperature zones. At a temperature of more than 70 degrees, this may show signs of melting or uneven damage. Using this in the kitchen or placing very hot utensils on it can be harmful.
For all the lovers of wooden or hardwood flooring, it is advisable to look for WPC designs specifically or even understand the texture or the feel of it under your feet before selecting it.
If you are choosing this primarily to replicate a hardwood flooring then you may be in for some disappointment. But do not forget to ask for the advantages of WPC over the use of hardwood. That may be an important factor as well.
WPC flooring with its softer and cushioned feel under the feet can be the best addition to a home that has pets. Your pets like dogs and cats will love this flooring under their feet as opposed to hardwood or any other natural flooring.
Pricing and cost factor are other points to be considered. There are other types of vinyl flooring or laminate flooring that are less expensive in installations. This is important when you have a large area to cover.
But if you consider the advantages in the long run then using WPC can be a more prudent step to take. They are certainly more cost-effective when you think of the lasting durability and the finishing of these floors.
The cost of regular maintenance and upkeep is also minimal and like a normal tiled floor which takes away the day-to-day costs as well.
WPC flooring is available all over the world and with easy access too. Some brands sell this flooring around countries of the world and each region has a popular name among them.
There are dealers and registered sellers of this product across countries and regions. You can always search on the internet to get lists of established and well-known sellers near you.
It may be wise to check their rankings and feedback of customers before you walk into a store or talk to anyone.
WPC flooring is one of the most versatile options for homes and offices. Though there are various ways WPC boards come of use in commercial settings, the use of WPC click flooring is a popular addition for homes and offices alike.
WPC flooring is not just restricted or limited to your indoor floors alone. this is widely used in outdoor areas as well. there is an extensive range of designs that make for an excellent flooring option for the deck areas of a house.
Being waterproof and scratch-resistant, this is commonly used in bathrooms and kitchen floors as well. External exposure is also possible with its waterproof texture and composition.
The use of wood polymer composite flooring is frequently used for basement areas of a building. Being waterproof you can be secured in case of any water logging or leakage situation there.
Within the rooms of the house or even an office, the designs and soft feel of the WPC help to enhance the décor and comfort factors. It feels cozy and homely besides being extremely comfortable for pets too.
If you own a commercial space or a showroom that sees a lot of footfalls every day then using WPC flooring can be a great idea. This provides durability and stability besides the glamorous look and can withstand the pressures of human traffic with equal élan.
If you look up the internet to know more about WPC flooring chances are that many sites will suggest that installation is easy and can be done by anyone – including you.
It may be effectively easier than most installations of flooring but do consider using the expertise of a professional when you are carrying out the installation of WPC vinyl plank flooring.
Most companies that sell this product have teams of professionals for installation as well. they have been trained in the process and knowhow and hence best for a hassle-free job.
However, you can always understand the process of installation which is fairly easy in the case of WPC. The WPC plank floors come in the form of an interlocking floating floor system.
This means the WPC layer of the floor is not attached to the existing floor or the subfloor in any way. this is also the reason why this is sometimes called the WPC click flooring; there are interlocking systems already attached to the boards that are simply attached and clicked on to one another as per specification.
The sub floors or the existing floor underneath should be clean and clear of any material whatsoever. There cannot be any presence of water or any level of moisture within it. It should be dried up adequately before the process of installation is initiated.
If you are on the verge of choosing wood plastic composite flooring, do ask about the availability of magnetic strips that is often used for the interlocking system.
One of the main USP of a wood plastic composite flooring is it is easy to maintain aspect. Its zero-maintenance factor is its biggest advantage.
Being scratch-resistant and waterproof means you are free of worries when there is a sudden spillage or leakage anywhere in the house or office.
But just like any other type of floor whenever there is something on the floor it is important to clean it immediately.
Cleaning can be done by occasional vacuuming or even a wet mopping of the floors; wet mopping does not exactly mean dripping wet but just the use of a damp mop.
For better cleaning, you can also use a mild liquid cleaning agent when using it with a damp mop. Chemical-free cleaning liquids will be preferred against those that contain abrasive ingredients.
Always ensure that the mop in use is a soft and smooth one with its application; you do not need stiff brushes or mops for WPC flooring that is often used for scrubbing floors. Those are mostly used for stain removals on stone or natural tiles.
WPC is more versatile in its application; it is scratch resistant and has a better-cushioned feeling underneath the feet when compared to SPC flooring. Durability and stability are more or less the same in both but WPC is more environment friendly in its composition.
WPC flooring is very affordable. But if it is compared to SPC then it will come across as more expensive and slightly on the higher side of the price bracket. However, there are certain advantages and features available with WPC that is not there in SPC flooring.
WPC flooring is 100% waterproof and sustains moisture or spillage. It does not show any damage on its surface as a result of the water leakage spillage is promptly removed and prevented from excessive exposure. There is a very limited effect of temperature changes on its surface as well.
WPC flooring is extremely durable which is also one of its main advantages. On average, WPC flooring will last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. Some brands can offer guaranteed durability for a longer period as well.
WPC flooring is installed directly onto the surface or floor. There is no need for any additional underlay. The boards are all prepared with all kinds of underlay requirements and are ready for direct installations.
WPC flooring comes with an interlocking system that allows it to stay together in a floating form and not directly touch the floor underneath.
WPC or Wood Plastic Composite flooring is an eco-friendly material that is completely free of toxic or hazardous chemicals like lead, methanol, and urea. It is composed of plant fibers and thermoplastics making it environment friendly and perfect for home and office installations.
WPC flooring has become a popular material for designing the deck area flooring of buildings. This is eco-friendly and available in a wide range of colors as well. Besides the luxurious-looking surface, this is also resistant to termites and other pests.
On average the cost of WPC flooring is $4 to $12 per square foot. This is however an approximate idea and is likely to vary when compared with actual prices.
The use of WPC flooring has become increasingly popular in recent years because of its hassle-free installation and lasting durability; it is very safe for usage in a home situation with small children and pets in the family.
There may be a factor of concern when it comes to matters of costs but the advantages outweigh the relative expenses compared with similar types of vinyl flooring.
The biggest fans of hardwood flooring will agree that there are limitations in using hardwood flooring despite its good looks and luxurious feeling textures.
WPC is not completely free of disadvantages but those are quite minimal if compared.
However, the final decision should be made objectively, and a proper assessment of the pros and cons that varies from region and specific installation locations.
Finding a credible and trustworthy brand and dealer is also important in your location. They can advise you according to the nature of installation required in your home or commercial premise.
A good seller will also have a full range of design and color options available for selection.
They can offer some attractive deals too for a comprehensive package of installation and materials.
Article Updated:- June 02, 2022
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