Laminate flooring is a popular option for homeowners since it is widely available, economical to purchase, and available in a wide variety of colours and styles. It is easy to find a laminate flooring option that fits within your budget and with the décor of the room in question. Therefore it is no surprise that laminate flooring is a popular choice for the bathroom and the kitchen.
But is laminate flooring really suitable for these areas of the home, where there is the high potential for water spills, and where the atmosphere is often damp and humid? Is laminate flooring actually waterproof?
No, Laminate Flooring Is Not Waterproof
In general, laminate flooring is not going to be waterproof. You’re going to want to be careful with what cleaning materials you use as well. This is because most laminate flooring options are made from hardwood particles and recycled hardwood. This means that if laminate flooring is in an environment that is humid, or if it comes into contact with water, it can warp. It can also ride up and become dislodged from the sub-floor, creating gaps in the flooring.
But surely since laminate flooring has a plastic layer, it must be waterproof? Not really, since the layer is not always strong enough to be able to withstand humidity and direct water spills. You shouldn’t assume that all laminate floor options are waterproof.
But There Are Waterproof Options
However, you can get some special waterproof laminate flooring solutions. Some laminate floors are marketed as being water resistant and therefore they can withstand water spills and can work in a bathroom or kitchen. If in doubt, check with the manufacturer to make sure you are buying the right flooring for your purposes.
If laminate flooring is not ideal for you, there are more waterproof options. These include luxury vinyl flooring. This option is ideal if you want a completely waterproof floor. You do not have the problem of this floor absorbing water, warping, or disfiguring. Water just sits on the surface of this flooring, ready to be wiped or cleaned away. Luxury vinyl flooring is the ideal choice for a bathroom and it is available in a wide variety of patterns and styles, to suit all budgets.
Cork flooring is also an option. Cork tiles are popular for bathrooms since they are naturally water-resistant. Plus, the texture of cork is pleasing and it offers good insulating properties. It is best to have cork tiles coated with an additional layer of waterproofing if you are installing them in a bathroom since this will further protect the floor from spillages.
If you are looking for waterproof flooring there are certainly many good options out there to choose from. You don’t have to opt for a simple, non-waterproof laminate floor since there is more choice for all budgets.
