There’s a significant difference between water-resistant and truly waterproof flooring. Most hard surface flooring products do a stellar job of holding up against the minor spills or the occasional leak, but truly waterproof materials take that peace of mind to an all-new level. Learn more about the different types of waterproof flooring available at Floor Coverings International® of Regina, and how to choose the right material for your home or business.
Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof Flooring
While sometimes used interchangeably, water-resistant and waterproof flooring aren’t the same thing.
Water-resistant flooring has a protective layer that slows water penetration, giving you some time to wipe up spills before the liquid is absorbed into the material below. If left to sit too long, the liquid will seep through the water-resistant coating, ultimately causing moisture damage such as warping, discoloration, or buckling.
- Water-resistant flooring is a cost-effective choice for areas with a low risk of leaks or spills, such as bedrooms, hallways, home offices, or living spaces.
- Waterproof flooring is made from non-porous materials that cannot be damaged by water. To ensure complete protection, these materials require very tight seals and usually require professional installation. While typically more expensive than non-waterproof alternatives, these products are a smart choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, not to mention busy entryways.
What Types of Flooring Are Waterproof?
There are surprisingly many types of waterproof flooring, with an important caveat. Not all products within a category are waterproof; ask your Design Associate which materials are waterproof and whether they are the right choice to suit your needs.
Tile and natural stone flooring are widely considered waterproof, although expert installation is paramount. While the tiles themselves are effectively non-porous, water can still seep through gaps and damage subfloors if installers don’t use the right grout. The Floor Coverings International® of Regina team will recommend the correct moisture barriers, grout, and other measures to ensure a truly waterproof floor.
Is Vinyl Flooring Waterproof?
Most (but not all) luxury vinyl plank and luxury vinyl tile flooring are waterproof. Look for products with stone plastic composite (SPC) cores or those with wood plastic composite (WPC) cores. Vinyl flooring is an ideal waterproof flooring for laundry rooms, kitchens, and entryways.
Are Hardwood Floors Waterproof?
Solid wood floors aren’t waterproof and are highly susceptible to water damage. Hardwoods are hygroscopic, which means they absorb moisture from the air when humidity is high and release it when levels decline. Fluctuations in indoor humidity can cause buckling, swelling, and other issues, and direct water exposure can damage subflooring and the planks themselves surprisingly quickly.
Is Laminate Flooring Waterproof?
Most laminate flooring products are not waterproof, although there are more waterproof options available as technology and materials improve. Laminate floors are primarily made from high-density fiberboard (HDF), which is mostly wood. These use a water-resistant layer to mitigate damage from small spills or leaks, but it’s not enough to protect flooring from prolonged exposure.
Waterproof laminate, on the other hand, is made from a similar plastic or stone composite, very similar to vinyl products. Professional installation remains critical, however, as even a small leak can get underneath the laminate if there are gaps in the floor.
Are Engineered Wood Floors Waterproof?
Like hardwood floors, engineered wood flooring isn’t waterproof. Engineered wood is made from layers of wood composite, and while it has a water-resistant coating and is less prone to water damage, it will eventually buckle and swell if spills aren’t addressed quickly.
Are Cork Floors Waterproof?
Cork is naturally resistant to water absorption; that’s why it’s been used in wine bottles for centuries. Unfortunately, this isn’t enough to be considered waterproof, though proper sealing can make cork flooring highly water-resistant. It’s a good choice for low-to-mid-risk areas like basements and kitchens, though not a good fit for bathrooms.
When to Invest in Waterproof Flooring
Certain areas of the home have significantly higher moisture levels and a greater risk for spills or leaks. If it aligns with your design preferences and budget, we recommend opting for waterproof materials in a few key areas in the home – but there are some rooms where water-resistant is just fine.
Rooms That Benefit from Waterproof Flooring
- Bathroom
- Basement
- Laundry room
- Kitchen
- Entryways
Rooms Where Water-Resistant Works Fine
- Bedrooms
- Hallways
- Home offices
- Living rooms
Let’s Find Your Perfect Flooring
Aside from the room, there are other factors that make waterproof floors worth considering. Your Design Associate will account for other factors, such as the number of pets, children, or mobility challenges, to recommend the best flooring options for your home. See why hundreds of households and businesses in Regina turn to our local, reliable team. Schedule your free, in-home consultation with us today!
