The 4 Ws of WPC
Gather around, friends. It’s time to talk about innovation!
*gasp*
Innovation? In FLOORING?
It’s here. And it’s spectacular. Let’s get into it!
“Is there such a thing as waterproof laminate?”
This is by far one of our most frequently asked questions. Laminate floors are a very popular choice for pet owners and families with children because of their extreme durability. However, they are water resistant, not waterproof. The core board that composes the bulk of a laminate flooring plank is absorbent, but it’s made with compounds to increase its moisture resistance and is protected by layers both on the top and on the bottom.
Which brings us to WPC.
WPC stands for Wood Plastic Composite, a hybrid material composed of wood or wood flour and plastic that highlights the best qualities of both materials. It’s a 100% phthalate free virgin material.
Where Can It Go?
Most flooring materials require transition pieces and expansion gaps. Not WPC! Eliminating these needs allows for large interrupted areas of flooring, so WPC is a nice choice for bigger spaces like open-plan rooms and commercial areas.
One of WPC’s most sterling advantages comes from its versatility. Unlike laminate’s core board, WPC’s wood plastic core is dimensionally stable when exposed to moisture and temperature fluctuations. It’s 100% waterproof! WPC floors are an excellent way to break out of the ordinary options for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other moisture-prone areas.
When Can It Be Installed?
We’ve talked about acclimation before. Different materials need different acclimation times, and WPC is no exception. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions and information to see how long you’ll need to let your new WPC floor acclimate.
WPC doesn’t need much in the way of subfloor preparation. Cracks? Divots? No problem! Unlike laminate and vinyl floors, WPC’s rigid core allows it to go over uneven plywood or concrete subfloors without the extra work of leveling or repair. Of course, always read the manufacturer’s specifications about subfloors prior to installation.
Why Should I Care?
Do you have children? Pets? A busy household that sees plenty of foot traffic? Then you need a flooring material that roll with the punches, stand up to the hard knocks, and come out swinging. WPC can do all of that and more! It’s highly resistant to impact, stains, scratching, and wear, designed to look beautiful and stay beautiful.
The layered structure of WPC ensures the vinyl layer takes the impact for maximum sound reduction capability. No squeaking or that cold, hollow echo from laminate floors. This is one quiet material!
- - - - Meredith is a content writer at Floors To Your Home. Away from the office she's a published author, hockey fan, music lover, and mom to a vampire-fanged rescue cat.
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