What is Wood-plastic Composite? Structure, Classification, Advantages and Disadvantages, Applications

Wood-plastic Composite construction

3 popular types of Wood-plastic

There are various manufacturing formulas for Wood-plastic, classified by factors such as the type of plastic and accompanying coatings. Currently, the 3 popular types of plastic wood are:

• HDPE Wood-plastic without coating.
• Polymer-coated HDPE Wood-plastic.
• PVC Wood-plastic coated with ASA layer.

HDPE Wood-plastic without coating

This is first generation Wood-plastic, produced in one piece, without separation of layers. There is no coating but the product is still highly scratch resistant, durable and waterproof.

Using HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) plastic makes the product highly durable (HDPE is tougher than PVC and less tough than PP). Specifically, HDPE has a high molecular density structure, making it more resistant to impact and tensile stress compared to standard PE. This type of plastic enhances the product's resistance to insects, mold, and decay. Additionally, it enables the product to withstand most acids, bases, and natural chemicals.

Polymer-coated HDPE Wood-plastic

This is second-generation Wood-plastic, also known as Co-Extrusion WPC. In addition to the core made from wood powder, HDPE plastic, and additives, the product is further coated with a polymer for comprehensive protection. This type of product offers higher stability compared to those without a protective coating and comes in a wider range of colors.

The polymer coating helps protect the product from water, reduces fading due to UV rays, and provides high scratch resistance. 

PVC Wood-plastic coated with ASA layer

This is Wood-plastic made from wood powder, PVC plastic, and additives. Because PVC has lower impact resistance compared to PE, it is mainly recommended for cladding panels. Additionally, to enhance weather resistance, the product must be coated with ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate).

ASA usually has a thickness of 0.2 - 0.3mm to meet quality requirements. Too thin will cause white lines along the grain to appear, too thick will cause the product to warp. This is a material used in the production of cars and roof tiles, so it has excellent UV protection and moisture resistance, keeping the product's color durable.

ASA plastic wood has a smooth and glossy surface that is resistant to dirt buildup and easy to clean. Moreover, the coating enhances the product with a wider variety of colors.

7 Advantages of Wood-plastic Composite

Disadvantages of Wood-plastic Composite

Wood-plastic Composite applications

Wood-plastic Composite is often used to:

• Outdoor Decking.
• Wall cladding, ceiling cladding
• Creating a classical neoclassical flower trellis
• Building fences
• Making gates
• Many other applications (e.g., making trash bins, making tables and chairs).

Outdoor Decking

Outdoor areas such as pool decks to sun-exposed spots like balconies, rooftops, etc., are all well-suited for Wood-plastic due to its durability, ease of installation, and high aesthetic value.

Plastic Laminate flooring on the terrace

Plastic Laminate flooring on the balcony

Use plastic wood to line the garden

Plastic wood blisters are used to line the floor on the terrace

Wall cladding, ceiling cladding

Outdoor wall and ceiling tiles made from plastic wood are beautiful, rustic, and extremely unique and sophisticated. On the other hand, outdoor composite wood plastic has overcome disadvantages such as resisting mold or fading, helping the house always be durable, beautiful and aesthetically pleasing, perfect over time. Outdoor wall and ceiling cladding made from Wood-plastic not only offers a beautiful and rustic appearance but also boasts uniqueness and sophistication. Moreover, Wood-plastic Composite has addressed weaknesses such as mold resistance and color fading, ensuring homes remain durable and aesthetically pleasing over time.

Plastic wood panels for outdoor walls

Plastic wood materials are also used for outdoor wall and ceiling tiles

Plastic wood panels cover balcony ceilings and outdoor awnings

Plastic wood panels for signs

Creating a neoclassical pergola flower trellis

The pergola flower trellis is a classic architectural feature enhanced by Wood-plastic Composite . With its open spatial design supported by columns, you can creatively add hanging flower baskets or small decorative plant pots around it.

A neoclassical Pergola flower trellis made from Wood-plastic will bring a feeling of closeness and warmth. This is also a suitable space for outdoor dining and parties.

Building fences

Fences from Wood-plastic have been a prominent landscape architectural trend. It promises to be a trend that will be widely applied in the future. Through modern production, Wood-plastic will help make the fence sustainable over time.

Currently, park fences, terraces, gardens, balconies, etc. all use Wood-plastic Composite.

Plastic wooden slats for fencing

Plastic wooden posts for fences

Multi-function wooden plastic bar used as a fence

Making gates

Thanks to the beauty that is close to natural wood, many people use Wood-plastic to make gates for their homes.

Gates made from Wood-plastic Composite will have many superior properties. Typically, the gate is termite-proof, warp-free, heat-resistant and color-fast over time.

Wood-plastic is produced on the basis of modern technology, ensuring the gate will be firm and safe to use. The application of Wood-plastic as a gate also adorns the house with a natural, modern and luxurious look.

Outdoor plastic wooden gate.

Making a gate with a multi-purpose wooden plastic bar

Wood plastic composite gate has high aesthetics, always durable for many years of use.

Construction of outdoor plastic wood requires iron welding and additional columns if not available.

Many other applications

Wood-plastic Composite can also be used for applications such as trash bins or outdoor furniture like tables and chairs,...

• Trash bins

Trash bins made from Wood-plasticare known for their durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal over time. Therefore, they are widely trusted and serve a significant role in maintaining and protecting the environment.

• Furniture

Using Wood-plastic composite Composite for chairs and tables offers high durability and easy maintenance. This relatively new material can make your home more perfect, modern, and aligned with new trends.

Frequently asked questions about Wood-plastic

1. Does Wood-plastic Composite discoloration?

Plastic wood has discoloration.

Three causes of discoloration in plastic wood are:

• Due to the color of the input materials.
• Due to the production process Due to visual effects.
• Due to exposure to the natural environment in the early stages.

* When exposed to the outdoor environment, the product fades about 5-10% in color during the first three months. Afterwards, the color stabilizes and does not affect the quality of the construction

>>> Explain in detail the causes and how to handle discolored Wood-plastic.

2. Is Wood-plastic Composite cheaper than wood?

Wood-plastic Composite can be more expensive than low-grade lumber but cheaper than high-end hardwoods such as: mahogany, cherry, walnut and oak (depending on the specific species).

3. Is Wood-plastic Composite better than wood?

Durability of wood-plastic composite Better improved, less maintenance and offers more designs than natural wood. However, real wood can provide a more natural feel and aesthetic.

4. How long is the lifespan of Wood-plastic Composite?

Outdoor plastic wood can last 10-25 years or more if installed and cared for properly.

5. Can we paint Wood-plastic products?

Painting plastic wood products is not recommended as it may affect its performance and appearance.

6. How do you clean Wood-plastic?

Wood-plastic can be cleaned with soap, water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or corrosive detergents.

7. Is Wood-plastic Composite easy to install?

It is not difficult to install Wood-plastic products. However, Using Wood-plastic in harsh outdoor areas requires proper attention when installing. Professional assistance from a team of specialized workers will ensure product durability, longevity and performance.

8. Is it possible to use Wood-plastic Composite indoors?

Wood-plastic can be used indoors but is not completely suitable for all product lines. For example: Kosmos Wood-plastic Decking must be installed on a skeleton frame so it is not recommended for indoor use.

9. Can Wood-plastic Composite (WPC) be recycled?

Wood-plastic Composite (WPC) can be recycled, but it depends on several factors:

• Ingredient: The proportion and type of recycled plastic used in a WPC product directly affects its recyclability. Products with a higher percentage of recycled plastic and fewer additives often have better recycling potential.

* HDPE is an easy-to-recycle plastic, helping to save resources, reduce plastic waste, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

• National Facility: Not all recycling facilities accept WPC due to its synthetic nature. It is important to check with your National recycling program to see if they accept WPC and what specific requirements or limitations they may have.
• Status: Weathered, damaged or heavily painted WPC may not be accepted in recycling programs.

10. What is the difference between Wood-plastic and wood imitation plastic?

Both are composite materials, but Wood-plastic is a product that combines wood and plastic, while wood-like plastic only uses plastic and additives, covered with decorative film.

Specific plastic wood as flooring products Kosmos Wood-plastic Composite Can withstand harsh outdoor conditions while wood imitation plastic cannot be exposed to the sun for too long.

11. How much does Wood-plastic Composite cost?

On the market, the price of Wood-plastic ranges from 143.000 - 510.000 VND/meter long..

Note: Prices for Wood-plastic Composite are given according to each product line (outdoor plastic Laminate flooring / indoor), type of Wood-plastic, brand, size and accompanying costs such as: installation costs, accessories, labor, transportation (if any).

General, Wood-plastic Composite is a product that can replace natural wood to decorate exterior spaces, is not affected by termites and reduces maintenance costs.