Are laminate flooring waterproof? (Detailed Answer)
A wide variety of flooring options are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Water will not penetrate hybrid flooring in any way. It doesn’t handle humidity fluctuations well and can’t be put in restrooms, vanities, or laundry rooms.
Are laminate flooring waterproof, we firmly believe that tiling the “wet areas” is the best course of action since it is the most effective waterproofing measure and is the cleanest alternative.
Laminate flooring is not waterproof, although some brands may falsely claim to be waterproof. However, most laminate floorboards are water-resistant and can last a significant amount of time without absorbing moisture. If you need a flooring material that is genuinely waterproof, then waterproof laminate may not be the best choice.
Video: How waterproof or water-resistant is laminate flooring?
Other How To Waterproof Plywood? and How to Dry Laminate Flooring With Water Under It
Can laminate flooring be wet?
To put it simply, laminate flooring is NOT waterproof. The misconception that laminate is waterproof is widespread; I think this is because many buyers mistake vinyl flooring for laminate flooring. Vinyl flooring comes in various waterproof and/or highly water-resistant varieties. Laminate is not waterproof because it is constructed of recycled hardwood, on the other hand.
It features a strong finish that resists scratches and may offer moderate water protection thanks to its melamine wear layer (quick spills). But unlike hardwood, laminate cannot withstand standing water, whether topical (on top) or seeping into the subfloor from below. In regions with excessive humidity, laminate also performs poorly.
While some laminates advertise themselves as “splashproof” (not a term used in the industry), they still caution you not to leave standing water on your laminate floor.
Laminate floors will deteriorate and buckle in excessively moist conditions. Laminate floors cannot be resurfaced or sanded, unlike hardwood floors. They cannot be amended once they are wet.
Laminate Flooring That Is Water-Resistant and Waterproof
We’re happy to report that the laminate flooring you already adore is even better. Yes, laminate flooring is now available that is waterproof and water resistant. You did indeed read that accurately. However, while waterproof and water-resistant flooring may sound similar, there are differences between the two.
We’re here to explain these differences and the advantages and disadvantages of each, so you can decide on your future with knowledge of new flooring.
What Separates Waterproof from Water-Resistant
The core layer of waterproof and water-resistant laminate differs slightly from that of ordinary laminate flooring. The highest levels of waterproofness and water resistance are found in the core layer, usually constructed from compressed high-density fiberboard. Furthermore, there is still a significant disparity between the two.
No matter how long time has gone by, waterproof laminate flooring ensures that water will never be able to seep through the surface.
The term “water-resistant laminate” often refers to a top surface that is highly moisture-resistant (hence the name). So, if you can’t immediately clean up a spill, the water resistance will buy you some time before it soaks through, but it will eventually soak in.
The advantages of laminate are that it is waterproof and water-resistant.
These floors’ titles highlight the primary benefit. Waterproof and water-resistant laminate is the best flooring option for bathrooms, kitchens, and even laundry rooms because they protect against moisture. Thanks to their durability, they last a long time, especially with busy families and pets. Additionally, they are a less expensive flooring option than classic solid hardwood.
These flooring also have the advantage of being simple to clean and maintain. The only maintenance required is occasional damp mopping, sweeping, and vacuuming. Check out our other blog for more information on easy cleaning laminate flooring.
Features that make Waterproof and Water-Resistant Laminate a Better Option and Are laminate flooring waterproof?
Each floor is named after its most valuable feature. Waterproof and water-resistant laminate flooring are great options for high-traffic areas prone to spills, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
With a busy family and energetic dogs, its longevity is especially welcome. They are a less costly flooring option than the standard solid hardwood.
Advantages of Hardwood Flooring
When choosing laminate flooring, think about the pros and downsides as you would with any other sort of flooring material. For instance, replacing water-resistant or waterproof laminate flooring is not difficult, but these materials often cannot be sanded and refinished as solid hardwood can. Buying new planks to replace the broken ones will be necessary, and finding identical replacements for what you already have can be challenging.
We usually advise customers to order more than they intended to maintain what we refer to as “attic stock” to aid with this. Doing this will always have replacement planks that match in case something goes wrong.
Laminate Flooring That Is Water Resistant
Our selection of laminate flooring that resists water combines appealing appearances with a smudge-resistant surface that can withstand spills caused by kids, pets, and everyday life.
Water-Resistant Laminate Flooring Types
Our water-resistant laminate is offered in several looks to match your decor, including alternatives with a marble or stone-like appearance and numerous options with a wood-look finish, such as maple, oak, and oak.
Select from various laminate colors, textures, and widths for the ideal fit for your room. Installation is simple thanks to the selection of float-and-click or click-and-seal options. Several of our products also have an insulating pad already attached for improved noise reduction and comfort underfoot.
Flooring is pleased to provide laminate alternatives backed by a lifetime residential guarantee for your peace of mind.
FAQS
Laminate flooring is water resistant.
Although not every laminate is waterproof, Floor & Decor provides laminate flooring that is water-resistant and waterproof.
How long will laminate flooring last?
Laminate flooring is very long-lasting. It is not only scratch and dent-resistant but also water-resistant and, in some instances, waterproof. It’s perfect for kids and pets and is excellent for high-traffic areas of your home. You won’t have to be concerned about normal wear and tear-producing severe damage with routine maintenance and use.
How durable is laminate flooring that is water resistant?
Our laminate flooring at Floor & Decor is water-resistant for up to 30 hours.
What distinguishes laminate flooring that is waterproof from that that is water resistant?
Waterproof laminate flooring will triumph in protecting against damage from more significant accidents, such as floods, even though waterproof and water-resistant flooring is made to survive daily wear and strain with exceptional durability.
Can laminate flooring be mopped?
Laminate floors that are waterproof and water-resistant can be mopped. In light of this, it’s a good idea to use water sparingly and drain any extra water before mopping. In addition, the specs of each product provide extra information on the proper cleaning techniques.