what is wpc vinyl

by Yasmin Moen PhD Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

What Is WPC? Wood plastic composite flooring, or WPC flooring, is a vinyl plank flooring with a rigid core that's made from either recycled wood pulp and plastic or polymer composites that are expanded with air. This combination of wood pulp and plasticizers makes wood plastic composite cores entirely waterproof.

What does WPC flooring stand for?

WPC stands for “Wood Plastic Composite” and is the type of core used in a very durable, water resistant type of engineered vinyl flooring. Though it has a lot in common with standard vinyl, WPC vinyl flooring does have some unique features you’ll want to consider. Learn more about WPC to find out if it’s the right fit for your home.

Is WPC vinyl flooring same as LVT?

WPC vinyl floors are thicker than standard LVT vinyl. Whereas traditional LVT is typically 4mm or less, WPC vinyl flooring ranges from 5mm to 8mm thick. WPC vinyl floors often tend to run thicker than standard SPC vinyl that tends to stay between 4mm to 6mm thick.

What is luxury WPC?

WPC, or Wood Plastic Composite Flooring, is a premium luxury vinyl flooring product that combines the strength of hardwood with the resilience, maintainability, and affordability of virgin PVC. As with other luxury vinyl flooring products, WPC is comprised of several layers: a printed wear layer, virgin PVC core, and high density iXPE foam backing.

How to install WPC floor?

Wpc Flooring Can Be Installed Over Concrete Flooring, And Wood Sub Flooring, And Could Also Installed Over Existing Hard Surface Flooring. ...
Use A Good Quality Cementitious Based Embossing Leveler To Smooth And Fill The Existing Floor. ...
To Install The Final Row Of Planks/Tiles, You Will Usually Need To Cut Them. ...

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Which is better LVP or WPC?

LVP Is Durable—and WPC Flooring Is Even Better But: some products are way more durable than others. WPC flooring isn't the most durable type of luxury vinyl, but it is usually more durable than vinyl-only LVP. Just remember: scratch resistance usually comes down to a vinyl plank's wear layer rather than its core layer.

Is WPC flooring same as vinyl?

WPC products represent the class of rigid vinyl flooring products with an expanded or foamed polymer core. SPC products refer to the class of rigid vinyl flooring products with a solid polymer core.

Is WPC vinyl waterproof?

WPC vinyl flooring is best known for being 100% waterproof. It is luxury vinyl flooring amped up a notch with a special waterproof core that makes it perfect for any room in the house. WPC stands for wood-plastic composite, which makes up the waterproof core.

What is the difference between LVT and WPC?

LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile. It is an engineered vinyl luxury tile. WPC stands for Wood Plastic Composite and it is also an engineered vinyl luxury tile but it is amped up with a special waterproof core. WPC flooring is a subcategory of LVT flooring.

How do you clean WPC vinyl flooring?

Daily, the best method is a light sweep with a soft broom (or vacuum cleaner with a soft head) Weekly, a lightly dampened mop (microfibre is best) using warm or cold water and a gentle alkaline cleaner. It is important to sweep away dust and debris on a daily basis to avoid damaging your flooring surface.

Does WPC need underlayment?

SPC by American Luxury Vinyl does not require an underlayment pad. It is important that the sub floor is clean and free from dirt or debris. All wood floors must be suspended at least 18” (457.2 mm) above the ground.

Is WPC flooring expensive?

It can have the same appearance as a hardwood floor but is easier to install and care for. Like other vinyl types, it comes in a range of styles and thicknesses. The national average cost to install WPC is $1,600 to $2,400, with most people paying around $2,000 for 200 sq. ft.

Is WPC scratch resistant?

Luxury WPC Flooring is Waterproof & Scratch-Resistant. One of the main attractions of Luxury WPC flooring is its waterproof design – making it a viable option for kitchens and other high-traffic areas where spills may occur on accident. There are many other benefits offered by Luxury WPC floors.

Is WPC a good material?

WPC is a highly durable and secure material used for construction purposes. It is a blend of wood fibre wood flour and thermoplastics. The WPC boards are also prepared from inorganic fillers and plastic composites. Wood plastic composite is also used as a strong and high end flooring option.

Is WPC flooring good?

WPC vinyl is 100% waterproof. These thick planks also tend to be more durable and provide thicker wear layers which prevent your floor from dents and scratches. WPC is like the best of the best in the vinyl world. Of course, many people are fine with traditional, water-resistant vinyl.

Which brand WPC is best?

Ecoste is the trusted WPC board manufacturer in India, offering only tested and sound WPC products to customers across India.

Does WPC vinyl expand?

In addition, WPC products can be installed in large rooms without an expansion gap every 30 feet, which is a requirement for laminate floors. The vinyl wear layer of WPC provides cushion and comfort and also absorbs the impact sound to make it a quiet floor.

Which is better vinyl or composite flooring?

Vinyl flooring is best in high-moisture areas and it's easy to keep clean. Yet laminate flooring offers a wider variety of style choices and has a higher resale value....Laminate Flooring.Vinyl FlooringLaminate FlooringMaterials100% polymers, no organic contentMostly high-density fiberboard made from wood3 more rows•6 days ago

What is the difference between vinyl and composite flooring?

Composite tends to be very rigid. Luxury Vinyl (LVT) is made of a thick wear layer then a Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) layer onto which the design is printed directly. A sound-proofing EVA foam layer is mounted to the bottom. LVT is somewhat flexible.

Is WPC flooring expensive?

Is WPC flooring laminate?

The short answer is WPC floors are, like laminate flooring, super durable, easy to install and economical! But there is one big distinction - they are waterproof. Also, WPC hides subfloor imperfections better than Luxury Vinyl Plank.

Where Should You Use Wpc Vinyl Flooring?

A better question would be where shouldn’t you use WPC vinyl flooring. Honestly, you can use WPC for any indoor application. So you wouldn’t want t...

Who Should Choose Wpc Vinyl Flooring?

Okay, cool. But is WPC right for you? While anyone can benefit from WPC vinyl, there are a few types of people we’d really recommend it to. 1. Pare...

Why Wpc and Not Laminate Or Regular Vinyl?

The answer is pretty simple. WPC vinyl is 100% waterproof. Traditional vinyl and laminate floors are not.Additionally, the thicker planks lend them...

Popular Wpc Manufacturers

Okay, so how do you find this magical flooring? There are a few brands known for their WPC vinyl flooring lines.

What is WPC Vinyl Flooring?

It is luxury vinyl flooring amped up a notch with a special waterproof core that makes it perfect for any room in the house.

How many layers are in a SPC plank?

So what is giving this thin plank such heavy-duty performance? It’s the layered construction. SPC rigid core luxury vinyl flooring is typically composed of four layers, but this can vary between manufacturers.

What is the difference between SPC and WPC?

Wanting to learn the differences and compare SPC vs WPC vinyl? You’re in the right place.#N#Both options are known for being 100% waterproof. SPC is a newer product with a signature rigid core that is virtually indestructible. WPC has been the gold standard for vinyl flooring and features a waterproof core that’s comfortable as well as functional. #N#In this head-to-head showdown, discover the pros and cons of SPC and WPC, learn how they’re made, and even compare the cost, durability, and comfort.

How thick is a vinyl floor?

Rigid core luxury vinyl planks and tiles are specially manufactured to be ultra-thin, usually measuring no thicker than 6mm.

What is the backing layer on a plank?

Backing Layer: This is the solid foundation of your plank. Often, the backing will also come with a pre attached underlayment.

Is WPC cheaper than SPC?

WPC can be somewhat pricey when compared to other flooring options, but it also comes with a lot of benefits, like 100% water resistance. SPC vinyl is typically cheaper than WPC, plus it comes with those same features. That’s why rigid core SPC appeals to business owners so much!

Is WPC vinyl durable?

More likely to dent: Compared to SPC rigid core vinyl, WPC isn’t quite as durable. That slightly softer core is more comfortable, but it’s also more likely to dent if you drop something heavy.

How thick is WPC vinyl?

Pay attention to thickness when shopping for WPC vinyl flooring. The thicker the planks are , the sturdier and more durable your floors will be. Generally, these floors are available between 4-8 millimeters thick. You can also look for different thicknesses for the wear layer on top, with those generally varying between about 8 millimeters and 20 millimeters.

What is WPC Flooring?

Essentially, WPC is recycled wood pulp and plastic composites that are combined to create a special material that is used as the core for the standard vinyl that forms the top layer. So even if you choose WPC flooring, you won’t see any wood or plastic on your floors. Instead, these are just the materials that provide a base for the vinyl to sit on.

What is the thickest layer of WPC?

It also makes the floors easy to clean. Vinyl layer: The vinyl is a durable layer that features the flooring color and pattern. WPC core:This is the thickest layer in the plank.

What is the layer of vinyl flooring?

Vinyl layer: The vinyl is a durable layer that features the flooring color and pattern.

Why do you need wood and plastic core?

The wood and plastic core also prevent the floors from being warped by moisture and temperature fluctuations. This allows you to keep a stylish and uniform look throughout the home without having to place different flooring types in different rooms based on potential moisture exposure.

Is vinyl flooring WPC?

If you’re not sure whether a certain variety of vinyl flooring is a WPC version, ask a salesperson or a customer service representative what composes the plank core. If it is made from wood and plastic materials, it is WPC vinyl flooring.

Can you buy WPC flooring?

Style Options: One of the biggest benefits of choosing any type of vinyl flooring is that there are practically limitless design options. You can buy WPC flooring in just about any color and pattern you like, many of which are designed to look like other flooring types, such as hardwood and tile.

Will You Choose WPC Vinyl?

WPC vinyl flooring is a modern marvel that’s suited to high-traffic commercial spaces and even residential designs. Soft under-foot, yet waterproof and incredibly durable, WPC vinyl can last for many years even in the busiest spaces like bank lobbies, restaurant entry areas and home mud rooms, gyms and spa spaces.

What is the best way to clean WPC vinyl flooring?

General daily cleaning of WPC vinyl flooring requires little more than a broom or microfiber mop. Since it is scratch-resistant due to the top wear layer, using a vacuum also makes basic maintenance fast and easy. This is particularly important in commercial spaces where you’ve got a lot of square footage to care for.

What is WPC flooring?

With WPC vinyl flooring, the extruded rigid core is made from a composite material that’s considerably softer than traditional vinyl. This gives your vinyl floors amazing strength with a much more pleasant feel.

What is the difference between WPC and Classic vinyl?

Classic vinyl flooring often utilizes an adhesive layer to stay in place on your floor. WPC vinyl on the other hand uses click lock installation, which is very simple to understand even if you’ve never put down any type of flooring before.

What is the top layer of vinyl flooring?

Vinyl top layer. This layer of vinyl is used between the composite core material and the printed film that gives your flooring its appearance.

How long does WPC vinyl last?

Soft under-foot, yet waterproof and incredibly durable, WPC vinyl can last for many years even in the busiest spaces like bank lobbies, restaurant entry areas and home mud rooms, gyms and spa spaces.

What does waterproofing mean for flooring?

What does waterproof flooring mean for you? It means that your floors won’t warp, swell or crack when exposed to spills or even long-term standing water. WPC vinyl flooring won’t shift or become damaged due to temperature or humidity changes either.

What is WPC vinyl flooring?

WPC vinyl flooring was engineered to improve the basic model of vinyl flooring. See what sets WPC vinyl apart with the benefits below.

What is WPC vinyl?

WPC vinyl is included into a category called rigid core vinyls. These vinyl floors have different types of engineered cores for added stability. If you’re considering a WPC vinyl floor, you may also want to research SPC and hybrid vinyl options.

What is the best thing about WPC flooring?

Easy Maintenance and Cleaning: The easy maintenance is one of the best perks of WPC vinyl flooring ! Cleaning and maintaining a WPC vinyl flooring only takes regular sweeping, occasional mopping and spot cleaning. As you can see, there are many benefits ...

What is wear layer on vinyl floor?

Wear Layer – The wear layer is the top coating on the vinyl floor that is transparent. This adds scratch and stain resistance to the vinyl plank.

What is decorative print?

Decorative Print – The decorative print layer is the design of the flooring.

Does WPC vinyl need glue?

DIY Installation: WPC vinyl features an easy click lock installation method that is DIY friendly. No adhesives or glues are needed for a floating floor!

Is WPC vinyl laminate?

A WPC vinyl is thicker than your traditional vinyl, so you’ll have a similar feel to a laminate. Just like a standard vinyl floor, WPC vinyl flooring is waterproof and will not be damaged in the event of a spill or moisture. WPC flooring is a plank system with a glue-less locking system similar to a laminate installation.

What is the maintenance of LVT vinyl flooring?

Maintenance & Cleaning – Cleaning and maintenance is a breeze with traditional LVT and WPC vinyl flooring . Regular sweeping mixed with occasional deep cleaning is all you need to keep these floors looking great.

What is WPC flooring?

Appearance – WPC vinyl flooring is made with the latest digital imaging technology and has a similar look and feel to hardwoods and stone tiles. When it comes to traditional LVT, these floors have more of a vinyl look and feel due to the thin plank structure. Higher end traditional LVT will have a realistic top imaging appearance, but budget LVT options will not look as realistic as a WPC vinyl floor.

What is the difference between LVT and WPC?

Construction – The construction of LVT and WPC vinyl is the biggest difference between these two types of vinyl. A vinyl floor has a simple PVC core that is a rubber product, allowing it to move easily and be flexible. A WPC vinyl has a core made of a wood plastic composite, that gives the floor a solid, stable feel.

How thick is WPC?

WPC vinyl flooring usually ranges from 5mm to 8mm, while a traditional LVT will be 4mm or less. Sturdiness – With the difference in core materials, the WPC vinyl is going to be significantly more dimensionally stable than a traditional LVT.

What is rigid core vinyl?

Rigid core vinyls are a new category of vinyl flooring that includes WPC vinyl. When comparing traditional LVT and WPC vinyl, there are several key differences and similarities to be aware of. Below we will break down the differences and similarities of traditional LVT vs WPC vinyl, so you can select the right vinyl for your needs.

Is LVT vinyl waterproof?

100% Waterproof – Both the traditional LVT and WPC vinyls are 100% waterproof. These floors will not have damage or fluctuate when exposed to moisture. Available Decors – Although the look and feel of traditional LVT and WPC vinyl will differ, each of these floors come in a wide variety of looks, decors and colors.

Is WPC vinyl harder to dent?

A WPC vinyl will not be as easy to dent due to the rigid core construction . Price – A traditional LVT floor will be less expensive than a WPC vinyl. If you’re looking for a budget friendly option, a traditional LVT will be your best bet.

What is WPC Flooring?

Depending on whom you ask, the acronym stands for Wood Polymer Composite or Wood Plastic Composite, the latest engineered flooring to hit the market. What makes it unique is the core.

How Much Does WPC Flooring Cost?

As for cost, WPC averages about twice that of LVT, somewhere around $1.75 and $4.00 per square foot. If you compare it to hardwood, WPC runs about 30-40% less on average. You need to balance your short-term budget with the long-term value that hardwood adds to the property.

How thick is LVT?

It’s typically thinner, around 4mm, compared to WPC, which runs between 5mm to 8mm thick. LVT is an economical choice for flooring where appearance is not the first consideration. WPC uses the latest in digital imaging to recreate life-like wood and stone patterns.

What is the thickness of WPC flooring?

When considering buying WPC luxury vinyl flooring, the thicker the vinyl layer, the higher the quality. WPC boards come in thickness options of 4mm to 8mm. However, the wear layer is more important for longevity than the thickness of the board. The wear layer is a transparent plastic coat that protects the printed vinyl wood grain layer underneath. Wear layers are typically 8 mil, 12 mil, and 20 mil. 8 mil is generally good enough for most homes, while 20 mil is best for commercial use.

What is the best flooring material for a 3 letter floor?

GET FREE SAMPLES. Another popular 3-letter flooring material is LVT. It means Luxury Vinyl Tile, and it’s another waterproof flooring option. Unlike WPC’s wood and plastic core, LVT has a PVC core that is more flexible and less rigid. It’s not the best choice if you plan to set heavy furniture on top.

What is the difference between WPC and vinyl plank flooring?

WPC vinyl plank flooring uses a wood and plastic composite, making it more durable. It may or may not have an additional backing.

How many layers of laminate flooring are there?

Laminate flooring is an economical and durable flooring option. It consists of four layers,

What is WPC flooring?

WPC is a class of Engineered Multilayer Flooring and is a subcategory of Vinyl Flooring . WPC refers to "wood plastic composite" but oddly enough, there are very few WPC floors that contain any wood. Most are constructed of rigid solid plastic composite or stone plastic composite (SPC) cores.

Why is rigid core important?

This rigid core is beneficial when the existing subfloor has imperfections, so it cuts down the time and cost of subfloor preparation during installation. If a subfloor is not sufficiently smooth, imperfections may telegraph through the LVP over time.

Is WPC flooring waterproof?

What Do SPC and WPC Stand for?

Before we discuss how these two floor types differ from each other, it is important that we understand what the initials stand for and, importantly, how each floor is constructed.

How long do SPC and WPC vinyl floors last?

Both SPC and WPC vinyl floors can withstand daily abuse and last for many years. The thick wood-like core in WPCs will usually keep the planks quieter when stepped on, but will not be as dense as the stone core in SPCs. As such, SPC floors will be far much durable than their WPC counterparts.

How thick is SPC?

Also, SPC flooring is usually thinner, with most planks ranging between 3 mm and 7 mm thick, and this plays a huge role in determining their level of comfort. WPC planks are usually between 5 mm and 8 mm thick, which makes them feel more cushioned when walked on.

What is SPC flooring?

SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite or Stone Polymer Composite. The flooring has a rigid core made of limestone (calcium carbonate), plasticizers, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

What is WPC composite?

WPC is short for Wood Plastic Composite and its core comprises of recycled wood or wood-like materials, PVC, plasticizers, calcium carbonate, and a foaming agent.

What is the difference between wood and plastic planks?

Planks with stone plastic composite core, for instance, will be more suitable for high-traffic areas like commercial spaces or workout areas , as they are stiffer and more resilient . Those with a wood plastic composite core, on the other hand, are designed for comfort and will be a better option for residential spaces.

Can you put WPC flooring over unheated floors?

Making a living area over an unheated floor such as the basement: In this case, it would be best to go for WPC flooring so you can have better insulation. For extra warmth, look for WPC planks with attached padding.

What Are the Advantages of WPC Flooring?

Compared to flexible-core luxury vinyl (or rigid-core LVP/T that only uses vinyl), WPC flooring has a ton of advantages.

How Much Does WPC Flooring Cost?

Ok! Now that we’ve gone over the differences between WPC and SPC, let’s talk about prices.

Is WPC Flooring Eco-Friendly? What About SPC Flooring?

Unfortunately, it’s hard to sell any type of vinyl as an eco-friendly flooring option. Vinyl is plastic, and plastic isn’t biodegradable. Plus, the vast majority of vinyl products aren’t recyclable.

What Looks and Styles Can You Find SPC and WPC Flooring In?

You can buy WPC flooring or SPC flooring in just about any style or color under the sun!

Does Core Thickness Matter with SPC or WPC Flooring?

Core thickness absolutely matters, but it’s not as simple as “the thicker the core, the stronger the product.” Thin -core WPC flooring can be stronger than thick -core WPC—if it’s made with better materials.

How Do You Install WPC / SPC Flooring?

As we mentioned above, many of the best vinyl plank brands (whether SPC or WPC) are made to be installed as snap-together flooring.

What brands of vinyl flooring use only cores?

Most budget brands of rigid luxury vinyl— NuCore flooring and LifeProof vinyl flooring for example—use vinyl-only cores.