Choosing the right outdoor paving it's always a delicate moment because it involves so many different criteria. The ideal outdoor flooring combines Aesthetics, comfort, and durabilityonly then can we rely on impeccable outdoor space, in the garden, in the courtyard, on the terrace, or by the pool.
Solutions with tiles or brickwork, long since set aside (the former too slippery, the latter too unstable), are today the most appreciated options by architects and garden designers: Wooden dowels or WPC decking (Wood Plastic Composite).
Both offer charm and warmth, but they have substantial differences in terms of maintenance, durability, and sustainability. In this article, we compare WPC and wood to help you find the best solution for your outdoor space.
WPC Decking Features
The WPC outdoor decking It immediately established itself for its unparalleled technical performance. Furthermore, Woodn Greenwood's Research & Development department has developed finishes and surfaces with a Touch & Feel very close to natural wood, to satisfy even the most stringent aesthetic requirements.
WPC is resistant to water, frost, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations: this makes it ideal for any Outdoor garden paving, but also for terraces, balconies, walkways, pool decks, and driveways.
The Non-slip surface with an R11 anti-slip coefficient, making it a safe solution for residential settings with children or the elderly, the presence of polymers repels woodworm, parasites, and mold, while the ease of cleaning (water and neutral detergent are sufficient) eliminates the need for periodic treatments such as sealant or oil, thus zeroing maintenance costs.
Advantages and limitations of natural wood
Natural wood remains obviously unattainable in terms of quality and tactile warmth, but it requires a lot of care and constant maintenance:
- Protective treatmentsSanding, impregnation and periodic finishing.
- Environmental awarenessVariations in shape and color in response to humidity and temperature.
- High maintenance costs.
Direct comparison: WPC vs. natural wood
To facilitate a more direct visual comparison, we have prepared a handy table
| Feature | WPC | Natural wood |
|---|---|---|
| Agent resistance | Very tall: doesn't rot and doesn't discolor | Bass: requires regular treatment |
| Maintenance | Absent: cleaning with water and/or neutral detergent | Elevated: periodic filing and painting |
| Dimensional stability | Excellent: no deformation | Poor: sensitive to moisture (swelling, cracking, and mold) |
| Guaranteed duration | 25-30 years old | 5-10 years |
| Sustainability | Recycled wood fibers + recyclable polymers | Cutting new trees |
| Operating cost | Bass: almost no interventions | High: recurring maintenance costs |
| Safety and hygiene | High: non-slip and anti-mold surface | Good anti-slip and anti-mold qualities only after treatment |
Choosing outdoor flooring based on your needs
If you are considering outdoor flooring for a terrace, a garden, or a pool edge, WPC decking is therefore An effective 100% solutionIt is durable, modern, sustainable, retains its color and stability over time, and requires no maintenance.
I Woodn Greenwood decking systems They are very easy to assemble, as they are supplied with aluminum substructure profiles, fixing accessories (clips and screws), and supports for elevated installation or installation on membranes in the case of raised floors.
In any case, in the’Technical Area We have made available the “General Installation Instructions”, the “Handling, Cleaning and Maintenance” guide, and the CAD blocks for design.
Finally, the profiles can be custom-made and also used to coat stairs, planters, or create built-in benches, perfectly matched with the flooring. A design flexibility that is difficult to achieve with natural wood.
For a designer, WPC, on the other hand, responds to more complex needs: in addition to offering a contemporary and uniform finish, it meets the main sustainability criteria and can contribute to compliance with CAM(Minimum Environmental Criteria) and to the building mapping according to the credits LEED. To this end, Woodn Greenwood provides professionals with its own internal technical department to offer all the necessary design support.
The certifications environmental, technical, and performance (FSC®, ISO 9001 e all tests on material performance) guarantee measurable performance.
How much does your WPC flooring cost?
Ask our team!
Choosing between WPC decking and natural wood means balancing aesthetics, practicality, and sustainability. WPC offers durability, zero maintenance, and modular design; natural wood speaks of tradition and authentic warmth, but requires constant care.
Would you like to know more or request a quote? Contact our team technician to choose the most suitable decking system for your project, or for find the nearest Wood Greenwood dealer at your house.