WPC vs Hybrid Vinyl Flooring
WPC vinyl flooring and hybrid vinyl flooring are in the same category of vinyl flooring construction. These floors are referred to as rigid core vinyl flooring. It is a new category of vinyl flooring that has a specialized core for added stability and durability.
WPC and hybrid vinyl flooring have similar features and construction, but there are some key differences that set these types of floors. Below we will discuss the main similarities and differences of WPC vs hybrid vinyl flooring.
WPC vs Hybrid Vinyl Flooring Differences
Construction – A WPC vinyl and hybrid vinyl both have a rigid core construction, which features a core that is engineered to be more stable and dent resistant than a traditional vinyl floor.
The biggest difference in the plank construction comes in the wear layer. A hybrid vinyl floor uses the wear layer of a laminate, which gives the hybrid vinyl an exceptional stain, scratch, fade and dent resistance. A hybrid vinyl wear layer uses an aluminum oxide top coating, whereas a WPC vinyl uses a urethane based top coating. The urethane based top coating is more susceptible to fading, stains and dents.
The added durability of a hybrid vinyl floor makes it the best option for commercial spaces.
Dent Resistance – Although each type of floor has a rigid core construction, a WPC vinyl is less dent resistant due to the wear layer difference. A WPC vinyl is also a softer material, which can leave it more susceptible to dents.
Price – Due to the engineering of a hybrid vinyl, it is sold at a premium price. You will find WPC vinyl floors much more affordable.
WPC vs Hybrid Vinyl Flooring Similarities
100% Waterproof – WPC and hybrid vinyl floors are 100% waterproof. Spills and humidity will not damage these types of floors.
Design – Both WPC and hybrid vinyl floors come in a wide variety of grains, colors, shades, textures and edge patterns. These floors have some of the best digital printing capabilities on the market.
Application – WPC and hybrid vinyl floors can be installed virtually anywhere within your home or business. They can be installed below, on or above grade and in moisture prone rooms, such as foyers, kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms.
Maintenance & Cleaning – All vinyl flooring options are very easy to clean and maintain. It just takes a little effort to regularly sweep and deep clean occasionally
Underlayment – It is common for WPC and hybrid vinyls to come with attached underlayment. Due to their rigid cores, an attached underlayment will add more comfort and cushion underfoot. If the floors do not have attached underlayment, you can opt for a vinyl underlayment to install beneath the floors.
Subfloor – Both WPC and hybrid vinyls can be installed over existing subfloors, including plywood, cement and some types of existing floors.
Installation – WPC and hybrid vinyl floors are floating floors with DIY friendly installation methods. They are installed easily with a tongue and groove system.
Vinyl Flooring Comparison Chart
Below is a general comparison to the types of vinyl flooring on the market. Keep in mind that these are general assumptions and average prices. Depending on your needs and type of flooring, additional features may change the generalization of this chart.
| WPC | SPC | LVT/LVP | Hybrid | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fade Resistance | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | High | |
| Wear Resistance | High | High | High | High | |
| Stains Resistance | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | High | |
| Dents Resistance | Moderate | High | Low | High | |
| Scratch Resistance | High | High | Moderate | High | |
| Moisture Resistance | High | High | High | High | |
| Care | Easy | Easy | Easy | Easy | |
| Installation | DIY Friendly | DIY Friendly | DIY Friendly | DIY Friendly | |
| Avg. Price/ sq.ft | $1.75 – $4.00 | $1.50- $3.00+ | $0.50 – $2.00 | $4.00+ |
Additional Vinyl Flooring Comparisons
Looking at different vinyl options? Learn more about other types of vinyl flooring with these detailed comparisons below:
Compare Vinyl and Other Floors
Interested in learning about how vinyl differs from other popular flooring types? Check out our vinyl comparisons with laminate, tile, hardwood and carpet to see how it stacks up against other flooring options.