WPC Cladding

Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) cladding combines wood fibres with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to create a material that mimics the look of timber with lower maintenance.

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Design & Installation

WPC cladding is installed on timber or metal battens using stainless steel screws. Battens should be at least 25 mm deep and spaced no more than 500 mm centre to centre, with a continuous clear cavity of at least 25 mm behind the cladding. The boards feature a tongue-and-groove interlocking design for a concealed fixing. Panels are typically 14.5 mm thick and 173 mm wide, with a usable width of 153 mm.

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Performance & Sustainability

WPC is resistant to UV, moisture, and insects, ensuring long-term colour stability and minimal maintenance. It requires only an occasional hose-down, typically every 6 months. A key sustainability advantage is recycled content—some products contain up to 95% recycled materials and hold EPD, FSC, and PEFC certifications.

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WPC is arguably the strongest performer on recycled content and circularity, though its end-of-life handling remains a challenge. Products like WEO® Essential are made from 95% recycled materials, combining wood fibres with HDPE, and hold EPD, FSC, and PEFC certifications. The material is fully recyclable in principle; a documented circular case study shows WPC façade cladding being dismantled, shredded, and re-extruded into new profiles.

 

However, in practice, most end-of-life WPC currently goes to waste-to-energy or landfill, as closed-loop recycling infrastructure is still developing. Its low maintenance requirement (no painting or frequent cleaning) also reduces lifecycle impacts. A critical limitation is its fire performance: standard WPC achieves only Euroclass E, which restricts its use in buildings above 11 metres unless specifically certified flame-retardant versions are specified.

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Key Considerations

• Fire performance: WPC is combustible. Standard products typically achieve a Euroclass E fire rating, though flame-retardant versions can reach B1 (EN 13501-1) or Class A (ASTM E84). For buildings over 18 m, B1 (B-s1,d0) is often required. WPC is generally not suitable for high-rise buildings over 11 m unless specifically certified.

• Thermal movement: Allow for expansion and contraction at board ends and edges.

• Best suited for: Low- to mid-rise residential and commercial projects seeking a timber aesthetic with low maintenance.