WPC stands for wood-plastic composite, which makes up the waterproof core. The WPC core is enhanced with a foaming agent, making it slightly softer and more comfortable in addition to being completely waterproof.
This flooring is hugely popular amongst homeowners looking for the look of traditional hardwood without the maintenance. It is also one of the most popular flooring options for commercial spaces and businesses. It?s beautiful and low maintenance.
WPC waterproof flooring is typically composed of four layers, but that can vary between manufacturers. In general, here?s what you can expect to find:
?Backing layer: This is the bottom layer of your plank. It provides a sturdy base, and sometimes comes with an attached underlayment for added convenience.
?WPC core: This is where the magic happens. WPC flooring contains a solid, waterproof WPC core. No matter how much water it encounters, it won?t swell, stain, or warp.
?Printed vinyl layer: This layer features the gorgeous photo imagery of wood or stone that makes vinyl so popular as an alternative to natural materials.
?Wear layer: This layer protects your floor?s surface from the wear and tear of everyday life. The thicker the wear layer, the better that protection!
Pros of WPC Flooring
?Waterproof: From both the top and bottom, WPC vinyl is designed to withstand moisture and prevent water damage to your floor.
?Comfort: It?s true, you could just get a wood or stone look tile or SPC plank and it would also be waterproof. But those options are hard. Standing on a hard floor all day isn?t great for your joints or feet. WPC is more resilient and much more comfortable.
?Style: Vinyl is at the top of every trend right now. Luxury vinyl can come in those highly sought-after wood-look styles that people can?t stop talking about.
?Low-maintenance: With the occasional sweep and mop, you can easily keep your floor looking good as new.
Cons of WPC Vinyl Flooring
?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.
?Slightly less affordable: The cost of WPC is just a bit higher than SPC. However, as more and more companies develop their own WPC lines, we are starting to see WPC flooring prices drop and become more affordable. Also, it?s still less expensive than solid hardwood with way less maintenance.
When you visit a Quantum Floors showroom, you?ll find a huge selection of waterproof luxury vinyl flooring as well as waterproof laminates and engineered hardwoods. We pride ourselves on the flooring education we provide to our clients so they can make the most informed decision on their new flooring. We?re here to serve!
