Living with waterproof flooring in rooms where messes often occur sounds perfect. But is waterproof flooring really a thing?
Every homeowner knows that water can be one of the most damaging forces you?ll ever deal with. It?s an invasive problem that can start small and bring tremendous damage as it moves along its path. It can compromise roofing, siding, drywall, and flooring.
That makes waterproof flooring sound perfect. But is it?
Waterproof or Water-Resistant
This is one of the most misunderstood marketing claims you?ll find on flooring products. And different manufacturers use these terms almost interchangeably in some cases. They are not equal terms.
Water-resistant means the material can withstand or resist water for a period of time. Eventually, it will be damaged by standing liquid or water.
Waterproof is impervious to water. It will stand up to water indefinitely, and remain in its original shape without damage.
This is where things start getting a little tricky. The flooring itself may be waterproof. But what?s around it may not. If moisture seeps down into the subfloor, which is not waterproof, the damage could occur from the bottom up. With so many products claiming to be waterproof, you?ll be best served looking for products that also warranty your subfloor. That is a great way to determine what companies actually stand behind their waterproof claims.
The trim pieces around the perimeter of your flooring and drywall are also areas where water can also do damage to your home.
A point we can?t stress enough is that there is no such thing as a flood proof floor.
Premium Waterproof Laminate Wood
Nothing beats the look of hardwood. That?s why so many products mimic it, trying to look like the real thing. Luxury vinyl planks have grown in popularity for this very reason but have been losing steam due to ever increasing prices.
When you want to move even closer to the look and feel of hardwood, laminate wood might be a perfect choice. Keep in mind that not every laminate is the same. Some may be waterproof while others are only water-resistant. Be sure to do your research well to ensure you purchase what you truly desire.
Waterproof laminate woods do a very good job for everyday messes. While it will easily stand up to kitchen messes and a dropped glass of water, a flooding dishwasher may force laminate beyond repair, as it would other types of flooring. This is where it?s important to know your lifestyle, and understand the product most likely to give you the results you?re looking for.
Vinyl
Luxury vinyl is built to resemble the most popular flooring choices on the market. You?ll find luxury vinyl planks that look just like hardwood, and luxury vinyl tile that resembles natural stone. The only difference is it?s waterproof and more durable than the materials it mimics.
While a popular choice for waterproof flooring, luxury vinyl is less durable than laminate wood floors with regard to scratching, fading, denting and staining.
The Reality of Waterproof Floors
Should you experience a flood in your home and have waterproof floors, there is no guarantee than any flooring will survive that, for the reasons mentioned above.
All kind of confusing. Our Flooring Experts stand ready to assist you in selecting the best and most appropriate flooring you?re your needs and your budget. Our state-of-the-art showrooms are located in Boynton Beach, Coconut Creek, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach Gardens. And watch for the Grand Opening of our newest showroom in Stuart, FL at the end of July 2022.
