In recent years, the hardwood flooring industry has lost some if its market share to the new waterproof flooring category. Although from the customers’ point of view there is not much of a difference between the genuine wood flooring and waterproof flooring, there are significant differences between wood flooring and SPC (Stone-Plastic Composite), WPC (Wood-Plastic Composite) or over all the rigid core water-proof flooring more broadly. Here are the three primary differences:
- They may look alike but they are not the same. Unlike hardwood flooring which is a natural product, Rigid Core Water proof flooring are a composite made from different products. Rigid core flooring is made from a mixture of plastic and stone material. Unlike wood flooring, which is pleasant to walk on, rigid flooring is cold! This might not be a major concern if you install the waterproof flooring in a commercial area where you don’t walk bare-footed ,but it is a different scenario if this flooring is placed in your home. Also, unlike wood flooring, the appearance of the boards in rigid core waterproof flooring are fake. They are images of wood that are printed on paper and glued on top. For this reason, you will notice duplicates of the visuals in every four to six planks. Of course, Wood flooring does not have a repeat pattern. The nature insures a unique and natural appearance!
- Waterproof flooring is not environmentally friendly. Waterproof flooring (e.g., SPC, WPC or rigid core flooring) is made from plastic or material derived from petroleum-none of which are biodegradable. Before you make the decision to purchase waterproof flooring, consider asking yourself if you are comfortable adding a large amount of plastic to your living space!
- Wood flooring provides value! Genuine hardwood flooring increases property value and the chance of selling when compared to similar properties without wood flooring. The majority of real estate agents across the country agree that homes with wood flooring are easier to sell. The records show that homes with hardwood flooring, sell for an average of 10% more compare to similar homes with similar floor plans.
