Choosing the right flooring for moisture-prone areas can be tricky. Prolonged exposure to moisture or water can damage and weaken floors, therefore, waterproof flooring is the best answer.
It is, however, easy to confuse waterproof and water-resistant materials. Remember, they are not interchangeable. ‘Waterproof’ refers to a permanent material that will not allow water to penetrate; ‘water-resistant’ floors protect the flooring substrate from water infiltration.
Of course, not all spaces within a home experience the same level of moisture. Kitchens and bathrooms, for instance, are particularly susceptible to mold and rot caused by exposure to water and dampness.
The Reno Superstore has an impressive collection of waterproof Porcelain Tiles, luxury vinyl, and other types of flooring to keep your home beautiful and protected against water damage.
Benefits of Choosing the Waterproof Flooring for Your Home
When selecting a flooring material, consider its maintenance and functionality. Get to know the advantages of installing waterproof flooring and the best options.
1. They Prevent Water Damage
Bathrooms and kitchens experience a lot of water exposure (think splashes from faucets and spills from bathtubs) so waterproof flooring is a good idea. Faulty plumbing can also lead to water seepage and moisture build-up that can damage floors.
Of course, not every flooring material is the same and each reacts differently when exposed to certain conditions. For instance, hardwood floors soak up moisture and tend to swell or warp; on drying, they contract and lose their shape. Installing waterproof materials like porcelain tiles will prevent most damage and ensure the durability of your floors.
2. They Improve Air Quality
Waterproof flooring materials prevent the growth of mold and mildew which often occurs in moisture-laden areas. (Studies show that mold and mildew not only lower air quality but also respiratory issues and trigger allergies.) Dust mites, cockroaches, bacteria, and viruses all thrive in moist conditions. To combat these situations, minimize humidity and use waterproof flooring.
3. They’re Durable
Floors receive a lot of foot traffic, so they need to be durable. Waterproof flooring materials like vinyl and porcelain can handle water exposure as well as heavy foot traffic, making them a long-lasting choice. Also, they won’t discolor when exposed to water or other environmental factors over a long period.
4. They’re Easy to Clean and Maintain
Waterproof flooring is super easy to clean and doesn’t stain. A soft damp cloth is the only thing you need to clear away dirt and grime.
Other flooring options like carpet require intensive vacuuming and are most certainly not stain-resistant. Low maintenance flooring saves you time as well as money, making them a well-loved option for homes.
5. They’re Pet Friendly
Since the top layer of waterproof flooring is completely non-porous, it makes them an excellent choice for homes with pets. Pets often scratch floors and cause accidents with their playfulness; this is where waterproof floors come in handy. Since they are scratch-resistant and waterproof, you don’t have to worry about nail marks or stains on your floors.
Let’s take a look at the best waterproof flooring options for your home. All provide the best protection against moisture. These flooring materials can be used with confidence in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Top 5 Waterproof Flooring Options
1. Porcelain Tile
Derived from ceramic, porcelain tiles are widely used in showers, bathtubs, pools, and other areas that receive significant exposure to water. Highly durable and waterproof, they are the best choice for places that experience intense water exposure, like bathrooms. According to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), porcelain tiles have a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less. This shows they are perfect for extremely humid conditions, and with regular care and maintenance should last a lifetime.
Moreover, they come in various designs and textures, which allow homeowners to get creative with their floors. To find out if porcelain flooring is the right choice for your home, read here.
2. Ceramic Tile
Ceramic porcelain offers similar advantages and is excellent for areas that see puddles or standing water but have a slightly higher absorption rate. They require periodic grout sealing which is the white cement substance between tiles. Standard care and maintenance will ensure they last many years.
3. Luxury Vinyl
Luxury vinyl flooring comes in long plank strips, which may range from 7 inches wide and 48 inches long. They are easy to install, and the lock-and-fold style of joinery seals tight against water. The waterproof core as well as the entire layer of flooring provides complete protection against water seepage.
However, improper installation risks seepage which can damage the subfloor. It is advisable to hire professional flooring installation installers to ensure the job gets done right.
4. Concrete
This building material is gaining popularity in urban spaces and provides exceptional protection against water when sealed properly. It is affordable and resistant to damp which makes it great for outdoor use. Concrete also has color and texture options that allow for customization.
5. Sheet Vinyl
Sheet vinyl offers a 100% waterproof surface and almost no seams to allow water to penetrate the substrate. However, unlike other flooring options, it cannot be repaired and is difficult to recycle.
When shopping for flooring materials, consider all the benefits of waterproof flooring. We have selected a few options that are durable, low maintenance, and versatile. Since floor renovations are generally expensive and, hopefully, permanent, they should be carefully considered. The Reno Superstore offers a great collection of stylish porcelain tiles and vinyl flooring, as well as the best installation services. Consult our flooring experts to figure out which option will suit you best.