There are several options to consider when choosing new flooring. You will often hear the words waterproofing and waterresistant when talking about laminate, types of vinyl, and even hardwood. Understanding the differences between waterproof flooring & water resistance is essential in choosing the right floor for you and your family.
Waterproof Vs Water Resistant differences
The biggest and most obvious difference between water-resistant and waterproof flooring is that water-resistant is only resistant compared to actual waterproof flooring. Waterproof floors are also more expensive than water-resistant flooring because they provide more protection.
What is Waterproofing Flooring?
Waterproof flooring means it's impenetrable to water. This type of flooring is often used in bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, and kitchens where there is more contact with water. If you live in an area prone to flooding, waterproof flooring would be your best option as the water will not damage your actual floors. It's important to keep in mind that waterproof flooring doesn't mean you still can't experience water damage if water gets to your subfloor, rather it means your actual floors are protected from damage.
What type of floors are waterproof?
We currently have Luxury Vinyl tiles, laminate, and even some hardwoods that are considered waterproof. Tile is also completely waterproof & a great option for homeowners who don't want the worry of water damage. Tile comes in a variety of styles & colors to get a customized look. LVT & laminate can mimic the look of real hardwood & other popular patterns while protecting against moisture damage. Our Waterproof Wood Floors are natural hardwood floors with a sub-layer of moisture protection, they provide resistance to moisture, pet stains, and routine water spills.
What is water-resistant flooring?
Water-resistant flooring can withstand water more than carpet, natural stone, or regular hardwood flooring, however, it can not stand prolonged exposure to water. Water-resistant flooring is a great option for living rooms, bedrooms, and even kitchens. They require more "maintenance" as spills need to be cleared up right away. If you spill something on a water-resistant floor, as long as you clean it up, your floors won't be damaged. If you spill something and leave it there without cleaning it up, water can get into the seams and cracks and eventually cause damage.
What type of floors are water-resistant?
We currently have a wide array of water-resistant laminates that are designed to better withstand moisture or spills. They come in a range of colors and styles to customize your space. Check out our blog on waterproof & water-resistant laminate flooring for more information about water-resistant laminate!
Which one is right for me?
Having waterproof or water-resistant flooring in your home is always a good choice, especially in those water predisposed areas like kitchens and bathrooms that are prone to more spills. If your budget allows we always suggest waterproof flooring in areas you KNOW are going to be exposed to water at some time or another like bathrooms and basements. Those are the areas we always caution our customers on when it comes to weather-resistant flooring. Waterproof flooring can be installed in any room but water-resistant flooring requires some more thought, for example, if your washer sometimes leaks on the floor, water-resistant flooring is not a good option for the laundry room.
