Every aspect of an interior space plays an important role in its appearance. But many homeowners underestimate one major part, i.e., flooring. The floor materials and designs you choose decide the overall look of your home.
Though there are many flooring options available, many people prefer WPC flooring. Wondering why? WPC is a type of luxury vinyl that combines the best durability and design without sacrificing comfort. It feels softer and warmer underfoot than other floorings, such as SPC and traditional LVP. Are WPC’s comfort and beautiful versatility the best fit for your space, or can SPC’s unmatched strength handle your needs more properly?
Here’s a detailed look at WPC vinyl flooring, from its waterproof qualities to simple maintenance. Let’s dive in!
What is WPC Flooring?
Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) or Wood Polymer Composite (WPC) is a luxury vinyl flooring that consists of wood fibers and plastic resins compressed into a rigid, waterproof core. Typical plank thickness ranges from 5mm to 8mm, and the wear layer is usually between 0.3mm and 0.7mm, depending on usage (residential or commercial). It has a vinyl design and a protective coat on top of this core.
However, it’s similar to LVP (luxury vinyl plank) in construction but not the same. WPC contains a wood-plastic composite layer, giving it more stability, comfort, and insulation than traditional LVP, which has an all-vinyl core.
WPC is often compared to SPC (stone plastic composite) and regular LVP (luxury vinyl plank). While all are durable and waterproof, WPC is softer underfoot than harder, denser SPC.
Benefits of WPC Flooring
Waterproof
WPC flooring is 100% waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about it swelling, warping, or getting ruined whenever it comes into contact with moisture. This also makes it great for spill-prone areas (or humidity-prone areas) like kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms.
Unique Design Options
WPC flooring is available in diverse colours, patterns, and textures. Hence, it is easier for homeowners to select a style that matches their decor or theme. Whether your aesthetic is rustic, modern, or traditional, there are so many options to complement your needs.
Real Wood Look
By adopting advanced printing and pattern technologies, WPC flooring is very similar in appearance to natural hardwood. It resembles the grains, knots, and textures of real wood, providing the artistry of hardwood without excessive upkeep.
Easy to Care for and Maintain
Maintaining a daily sweep is not hard, and occasional damp mopping is needed to keep it looking new. It’s also resistant to stains and scratches, making it an ideal surface for busy households. For example, real wood does not need sanding, staining , or sealing, and WPC flooring is ready for installation immediately.
Easy Installation
Most WPC flooring products come with a click-lock system that enables an easy interlock installation without the need for nails or glue. This makes it an excellent choice for those who like to do it themselves and are looking for a quick and non-fuss flooring upgrade.
Durable and Long-Lasting
WPC flooring is extremely durable and capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic, making it suitable for residential and commercial spaces. It is resistant to dents, impacts, and everyday wear and tear and will maintain its beauty and functionality for years.
Dimensionally Stable
WPC flooring is also less prone to expanding and contracting than traditional hardwood, which typically changes shape with temperature or humidity changes. This stability makes it an excellent choice for all climatic and environmental conditions, including applications with underfloor heating.
Layers of WPC Flooring
WPC vinyl flooring consists of four different layers, each designed for specific purposes:
Wear layer: The top layer provides resistance to scratches, stains, and wear, helping to keep the floor looking good and lasting longer.
Design layer: Found just under the wear layer, this layer contains high-definition patterns replicating natural wood, stone, or other materials for aesthetic versatility.
Core layer: Made largely of composite fibres, wooden fibres, or plastic resins, this is the backbone of WPC flooring and lends structure, waterproofing, and comfort.
Base layer: This foundation layer is made from cork or foam. It offers good insulation and fills in uneven spaces in a subfloor, making for a more comfortable and level surface.
WPC Flooring Installation Process
WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) flooring has to be installed properly with thorough preparation and strict adherence to procedures to provide a durable and nice finish. The following is a step-by-step guide:
Subfloor Preparation:
- Cleaning: Clear the subfloor of debris, dry it, and clean it.
- Levelling: The subfloor must be level within 1/8″ over 10 feet.
- Moisture Barrier: In concrete installations, a six-mil polyfilm moisture barrier is used.
Layout Planning:
1. Acclimation: Fit planks from a few boxes to bear color changes and acclimate them.
2. Starting Point: Start installation along the longest wall or the direction of principal light source.
3. Straight Chalk Line: Draw a chalk line for the first row straight.
4. Expansion Gap: Install ¼” spacers between the flooring and the walls to permit expansion.
Installation Steps
Floating Installation
1. First Row
- Start from the left side of the room.
- Install the first plank with the tongue facing the wall.
- Join the next plank by inserting the tongue into the groove and pushing downwards.
2. Subsequent Row
- Stagger joints at least 6 inches.
- Make the long edge of the plank fit into the groove of the next row at an angle and press it down.
- Tap a snug fit with a tapping block and rubber mallet.
3. Final Row
- Cut and measure planks to fit, leaving a ¼” expansion gap.
- Lock planks down with a pull bar
Glow-Down Installation:
- Adhesive Application
Apply adhesive evenly over the subfloor following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Installation of Planks
Place planks into wet adhesive, correctly aligned.
Leave a ¼” expansion gap on the edges
- Rolling
Rolling the flooring directly after installation with a 100 lbs. 3-section roller to permit proper adhesion.
Maintenance and Care of WPC Flooring
Regular Cleaning Tips
You won’t need many cleaners to keep your WPC flooring in appropriate condition. For stains, just use soap and water. If the floor has scratches, marks, cuts, or ridges, use a gentle brush. Since WPC floors are relatively low-maintenance, a regular vacuum cleaner and a damp mop can help resist scratching and dirt.
First, however, you should dry mop and vacuum the floor before wet cleaning. You might also use diluted apple cider vinegar to treat stubborn dirt and dirt stains, jojoba oil to remove scratches, and baking soda to remove food stains.
Avoiding Damage
WPC floors are beautiful but require care; otherwise, they will get scratches and dents. When moving heavy furniture, use pads to avoid scratching your WPC floor. You also need to avoid harsh chemicals like ammonia and bleach.
Long-term Care
Maintenance of WPC flooring is mainly focused on observation. One of the best maintenance measures is to observe for wear and tear. You should address problems as soon as they appear to prevent damage from becoming a safety or structural issue.
Conclusion
WPC vinyl flooring offers the best of both worlds for both style and comfort. Its water resistance, realistic wood aesthetic, and easy maintenance make it far superior to traditional flooring options. WPC flooring is perfect for home and commercial space projects that need the combined quality of beauty and durability. Choose this flooring solution and ensure long-lasting looks that can withstand daily wear without any problem!