WPC Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.'s)
Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ guide on WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) wood. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or designer exploring sustainable building materials or looking to upgrade your outdoor living spaces, this guide aims to provide you with detailed insights into everything you need to know about WPC wood. From its composition and advantages to applications, maintenance tips, and environmental considerations, we’ll cover it all to help you make informed decisions for your projects.Let’s delve into the world of WPC wood and uncover the unique features that have propelled it to be a popular choice in construction and manufacturing industries worldwide.
About WPC
What does WPC stand for?
WPC stands for Wood Plastic Composite. It refers to a material made from a combination of wood fibres or wood flour and plastic, typically used in products like decking, cladding, and other outdoor structures. WPC is known for its durability, low maintenance, and resistance to weathering compared to traditional wood.
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What is composite decking?
Composite Decking offers a longer lifespan compared to traditional timber, thanks to its unique composition of 60% wood fibres and 40% plastic, along with bonding agents and additives. It also provides a range of benefits and is available in eight different colours.
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Can I use composite decking boards for wall cladding?​
​We suggest using our Composite Wall Cladding Boards for wall applications, thanks to their lightweight design and tongue-and-groove feature that makes installation easy. While Composite Decking is intended for floor-level use, you can also use Composite Fascia Boards as side cladding to complete and enhance a decking area.
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What are all the components I need to construct a fence?​
​To build a proper fence, you will need fence posts, fence panels or decorative fence panels, top and bottom rail, clamps to secure the rails and plastic end caps for fence posts. Our WPC Fence Kit provides everything you will need for a safe and proper fence. If you feel unsure, get in touch with us. We will be happy to help.
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Do I need planning permission for a deck?
​​Depending on where you live, planning permission may be required for some decking installations, while others may not need it. The need for permission depends on the size, height, and location of the decking area.
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Are composite boards reversible?
Yes, Vanzeel WPC Composite Decking Boards have two sides: one with narrow grooves and the other featuring a woodgrain texture. For better slip resistance.
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Do you install the product?
Unfortunately, Vanzeel WPC does not provide an installation service for our products. However, all of our products can easily be installed by any skilled DIYer.
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Delivery information:
Do you offer a delivery service?
No, only via a local transport company, but a minimum order quantity is required. We don't operate our own vehicles.
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Can I collect my order?
Yes, just order online and select Customer Collection.
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Do you deliver outside the UK?
​Yes, we can via a local transport company, but a minimum order quantity is required.
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Maintenance and After Care:
Do composite boards fade?
Similar to other composite materials, our Vanzeel WPC Boards undergo a stabilisation process, during which some fading may occur before the final colour is achieved. This typically happens within the first year after installation. The woodgrain design, in particular, may show more noticeable shading variations due to the sanding process.
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How easy is it to maintain WPC?
Vanzeel WPC products are easy to clean using a stiff brush and soapy water or low pressure jet washer. They require no sanding or staining, so maintenance is kept to a minimum.
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Will the appearance of my composite woodgrain decking boards change over time?
While the woodgrain texture on our boards is built to last, its visual appearance may soften over time due to natural weathering. However, the 3D textured surface will remain intact, ensuring that the texture continues to offer aesthetic appeal, even as the colour may change.
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Will watermarks appear on composite decking?
Watermarks are a typical part of the weathering process for composite products. As the tannins in the timber content of the boards are released, watermarks may form. This is a temporary condition, and the marks will gradually fade as the decking stabilises over time.
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Do some colours need more maintenance than others?
Certain lighter colours, like Stone / Light Grey, may show dirt more prominently, meaning they may require more frequent cleaning compared to our darker colours.
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Can I paint WPC?
Yes, you can paint them. However, please be aware that you’ll need to maintain the paint, as it will cover the panels' weatherproof and UV-resistant surface.
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Our garden faces south, will the WPC fade more?
If your garden faces south, it means your garden is facing the sun nearly the whole day, which can accelerate the fading process.
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What sort of guarantee do you offer?
​​​​​​​​We offer a 10-year Guarantee, although our products have a life expectancy of 25 years.
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Can composite decking boards get scratched?
Composite Decking Boards can be prone to scratching, especially if furniture is dragged across them. To reduce the risk of damage, we suggest placing felt pads on the furniture legs.
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Will plant pots leave stains on composite decking?
Because Composite Decking is porous, extended contact with plant pots may result in staining. To prevent this, we recommend placing a mat beneath any pots. The same precaution should be applied to other garden furniture as well.
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Can I design a fence with just decorative panels?
Yes, you can build a fence using only decorative or slatted fence screens, without the need for fence slats. If you need assistance with designing your fence, feel free to reach out to our product specialists.
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Health and Safety:
Is Vanzeel WPC decking slip-resistant?
Vanzeel WPC Composite Decking Boards feature a narrow-grooved surface on one side that offers enhanced slip resistance by promoting better water drainage. On the other hand, our Woodgrain Composite Decking Boards do not provide the same slip-resistant benefits. But they are more stable than greasy wood.
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Are Vanzeel WPC Products recyclable?
​All our WPC is both Ecological and Recyclable. Recycled Wood (60%), Recycled Plastic (30%) and Additives (10%) (UV Stabiliser, Colourants, etc).
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Can you cut the boards for me?
Unfortunately, we do not offer board cutting services. However, the boards can be easily cut to length using a standard saw. Please exercise caution when cutting. We are unable to cut the boards on-site.
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Are composite decks safe for children and pets?
​​Composite Decking is a safe option for both children and pets. Unlike timber decking, it won’t splinter, reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, the hidden T Clip fixing system keeps screws out of sight, further enhancing safety for children and pets.
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Can I drill through a decorative panel and fix it to a surface?
Yes, you can drill through our decorative panels to secure them to your desired surface without impacting their structural strength, durability, or weather resistance.
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Are the decking boards fire-retardant?
​​All Vanzeel WPC products are fire-retardant.
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Can I cut composite decking?
Composite Decking Boards can be easily cut with standard wood-cutting saws and tools. When cutting the boards to size, make sure to install them immediately after cutting.
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Can I cut boards at your premises?
For health and safety reasons, customers are not permitted to cut any products on our premises. This policy is strictly enforced.
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Can I power wash composite decking?
Power washing your Composite Decking is an excellent way to keep it clean and well-maintained throughout the year.
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Can I cut the fence boards to the size I need?
Yes, to achieve the cleanest cut, we suggest using a hacksaw or mitre saw.
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The Future of WPC Wood Panels.
With the increasing demand for sustainable and low-maintenance building materials, the future of WPC wood panels looks promising. Innovations in manufacturing processes and a rise in the variety of textures and finishes available are making WPC an even more attractive choice for designers, builders, and homeowners.
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Conclusion.
WPC, with its unique combination of wood and plastic, has revolutionised the construction and home improvement sectors. Its durability, low maintenance, and eco-friendliness make WPC wood panels a preferred choice for a range of applications. As consumers continue to prioritise sustainability and longevity, it's clear that WPC wood panels will continue to be a popular choice in the years to come. While WPC might have a higher initial cost compared to traditional wood, the potential savings from reduced maintenance, increased lifespan, and other benefits can make it a more economical choice in the long run.
Contact Us
Address: Luoyang, Henan, China
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At Vanzeel, we are dedicated to helping you with your business development needs in China. Whether it's sourcing, purchasing, conflict resolution, or quality control, we have a team of experts ready to assist you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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