Has the time come to overhaul the floor in your kitchen or entryway? For any area where moisture may lurk, a water-resistant option should undoubtedly be on your list. With it, you won’t fret over splashes, spills or little leaks, and your floor will stay flawless for years.
In this guide, you’ll get the scoop on waterproof versus water-resistant flooring. Whether you have kids, pets or just a knack for messy cooking, the floor impenetrable to liquids is a wise investment.
Defining waterproof and water-resistant flooring
Technically speaking, the main differences between the two alternatives are:
Waterproof flooring is impervious to water damage. It has a protective coating that prevents liquid from seeping into the flooring material.
Water-resistant flooring can hold up against some exposure to moisture but is not entirely impervious.
A waterproof floor may give you more peace of mind in high-moisture areas like bathrooms. But a water-resistant one works well in a space with occasional spills.
Waterproof flooring options
The waterproof category abounds with choices, from those used for centuries to modern ones. Classic options, such as stone, are typically more expensive, while today’s composite materials are of superb quality and usually more affordable.
The best performers in this category include:
SPC vinyl planks. This revolutionary composite material is leak-immuned, ensures longevity and sustains high traffic – thanks to the blend of polyvinyl chloride, the strength of calcium carbonate and stabilizers.
Ceramic tile. For ageless style and waterproof performance, ceramic tile is hard to beat for washrooms, laundry rooms and cooking areas. Glazed ceramic tile, in particular, is non-porous and won’t absorb water or stains.
Natural stone. Slabs like granite, marble, travertine and slate offer a high-end look. Unaffected by scratches, staining and water, stone suits buyers who are after a luxurious look.
Water-resistant flooring option
Water-resistant alternatives work like a charm if you want the look of natural material without worrying about water damage. These are designed to handle moisture while maintaining their beauty:
Laminate. It’s made of a fibreboard core covered in a plastic top layer. Many laminate coverings come with a special sealant on the edges and seams to prevent water from seeping into the core. This makes them a keenly-priced, durable, water-resistant flooring option for homeowners.
Engineered wood. These coverings have a real wood veneer top layer with a water-resistant coating bonded to multiple layers of plywood. If exposed to moisture, the plywood core is loved for enhanced stability and resistance to warping or buckling.
Vinyl or linoleum. These are classic (and inexpensive) options with serious water resistance owing to an impervious surface. Many modern linoleum floors have a true-to-life look of wood or stone. They are perfect for kitchens or any area where moisture is a concern.
Conclusion
Water-resistant flooring is a dream come true if you seek a low-maintenance lifestyle. Unlike hardwood, it won’t dent or scratch easily. You never have to refinish it. Just sweep, mop or vacuum to keep it clean.
If you have four-legged friends or rambunctious little ones running around, water-resistant flooring never suffers from accidents. Moreover, it offers high style at a lower cost, as it realistically mimics natural stone or wood at a fraction of the price.
Your choice ultimately comes down to your priorities and budget. But with water-resistant options, your floor will stay as perfect as new for years, even with an active household.
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