WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) is a new generation composite material, increasingly in demand for interior and exterior construction and design projects.
The reason is quickly stated: WPC guarantees high technical and aesthetic performance at every latitude, in any climate, and in the long run, it is considerably more eco-sustainable than natural wood.
In this article, we will delve into what WPC is, why it's winning over architects and individuals, and how it meets the needs of those seeking a quality cladding.
What is WPC?
WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) is a material obtained by mixing wood chips (recovered or recycled wood fibers) with thermoplastic polymers (such as high-density polyethylene and PVC).
Woodn Greenwood's R&D department has patented two exclusive compounds, created specifically for particular WPC applications.
Woodn WPC is primarily polymer-based, making it 100% waterproof and ideal for a wide variety of cladding, sunshades, and suspended ceilings.
The Greenwood WPC, on the other hand, has a predominant percentage of wood fiber, to be more faithful to the Touch & Feel of natural wood: it is mainly used for decking profiles.
The result is a stable product, resistant to thermal shock, and perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Further details are available on this page: link.
Main applications of WPC
- Flooring and decking (outdoor and indoor)
The WPC decking It's ideal for terraces, patios, and pool decks: the material doesn't fade in the sun, is water-resistant, can be cleaned with a simple water spray, and requires no maintenance.
The brushed finish also ensures a non-slip surface with an R11 friction coefficient. - Coatings and suspended ceilings
In WPC systems, furthermore, line the walls internal and external ventilated facades, or used to create Ceilings for indoor/outdoor use.
Indeed, water repellency and high heat resistance always ensure dimensional stability and prevent woodworms and mold from taking hold on the surfaces.
This way, environments remain healthy for longer, even in settings more exposed to humidity: bathrooms and kitchens in residential settings, and even spas and swimming pools in contract settings. - Sunshades and decorative screens
Finally, WPC profiles are suitable for creating Sun breaker, brise-soleil and modular screens, to shield from sunlight, maintain privacy, and infuse modern aesthetics into buildings.
WPC vs. Natural Wood
The comparison between composite wood and natural wood highlights technical and maintenance advantages that make composite the preferred choice in many contexts.
| FEATURE | WPC | Natural wood |
|---|---|---|
| Weather resistance | Elevated: waterproof and UV-resistant surface | Base: without treatment, it absorbs water and fades in the sun |
| Maintenance | Zero: cleaning with water, no painting | Periodic sanding, painting, and oiling |
| Dimensional stability | It does not deform and it does not crack | Sensitive to humidity and temperature |
| Lifespan | Minimum 30-year warranty | Maximum 10 years in optimal conditions |
| Material Origin | Recycled wood fibers + recyclable polymers | New forest resource cutting |
| Mold and parasite attack | Structurally impenetrable surface | Vulnerable surface without specific treatments |
The advantages of WPC
• Durability and weather resistance
Thanks to the polymeric matrix, WPC is not afraid of rain, intense sun, or frost. It retains its color and mechanical characteristics for decades, without cracking or rotting.
• Zero maintenance and easy to clean
A stream of water or a neutral detergent is enough to remove dirt and stains. There's no need for sanding, treating, or oiling: the wood-plastic composite material maintains its original appearance even with intense use and foot traffic.
Dimensional stability and resistance to mold and woodworm
WPC does not absorb water, eliminating mold formation and the possibility of attacks by wood-boring insects. It provides a stable product that does not vary in length or thickness with humidity cycles.
Sustainability and certifications of WPC material
aLess forest consumption and recycling
Woodn Greenwood uses recycled wood fibers, reducing the depletion of natural resources, and promotes the creation of a truly Circular economy.
When the product reaches end-of-life, it is shredded, pulverized, and re-extruded by Woodn Greenwood through the Regenerate cycle, to give life to a new secondary raw material, ready to be transformed again into profiles and systems.
aRemade® in Italy Certification
The Rigenera line's outdoor flooring planks are indeed certified Remade® in Italy With an A+ rating: made from 100%, a recycled material derived from internal byproducts, they guarantee verified sustainability throughout the entire supply chain.
aFSC® Certification
The Woodn Greenwood products and company are certified FSC®, ensuring the company's commitment to maintaining the chain of custody of wood used in production, which comes from responsibly managed forests.
aMapping LEED®, reliability tests and quality certifications
Woodn Greenwood systems undergo periodic testing and Certification paths at accredited laboratories, to ensure that the products meet the most stringent international standards for those who purchase and use them: fire resistance, wear resistance, VOC emissions, sound absorption…
As further assurance of their reduced environmental impact, the products comply with CAM (Minimum Environmental Criteria) and contribute to LEED Mapping® for sustainable architecture.
Maintenance and Cleaning of Composite Wood
One of the main advantages of WPC is its ease of daily maintenance. Unlike natural wood, it doesn't require seasonal treatments, painting, or sealants.
However, to ensure its longevity and maintain the material's aesthetic over time, it is helpful to follow some good practices for ordinary maintenance, and to understand How do you clean WPC?.
Recommended maintenance:
- Clean occasionally with a water jet, a soft-bristled brush, and a mild detergent, especially during the wetter seasons or after long periods of nonuse.
- Remove leaves, soil, or debris to prevent dirt buildup and water from pooling between the slats.
- Annual inspection of joints, screws, and fasteners.
Minimal maintenance is more than enough to preserve the aesthetic effect and performance of WPC over time, even in outdoor environments subject to temperature fluctuations, humidity, or solar radiation.
WPC is the solution that combines the aesthetic appeal of wood with modern practicality: durability, zero maintenance, sustainability, and superior technical performance make Woodn Greenwood the premier choice for flooring, siding, and sunshade systems.
Find the nearest retailer o Request a project consultation on the page Contacts, to find out how WPC can transform your space.