All About Waterproof Laminate Flooring: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you considering waterproof laminate flooring for your home but not sure if it’s the right choice for you? With the popularity of laminate flooring on the rise, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of this type of flooring before making a decision. In this in-depth review, we will explore everything you need to know about waterproof laminate flooring, including its construction, maintenance, installation, cost, design options, and how it compares to luxury vinyl flooring. So let’s dive in and explore the world of waterproof laminate flooring!
Understanding Waterproof Laminate Flooring
Since the introduction of “click-and-lock” laminate flooring products in the 1990s, homeowners have been searching for laminates suitable for wet locations, such as bathrooms and basements. While laminate floors are favored by DIYers for their cost-efficiency, attractive appearance, and easy installation, they have struggled to perform well in areas prone to moisture. Typically, laminate flooring products have a fiberboard core that is susceptible to swelling when exposed to water, leading to delamination and other issues.
Why Laminate Flooring Isn’t Waterproof
The core issue with laminate flooring lies in its construction, particularly its seams and fiberboard core. The click-and-lock joining system used in laminate flooring makes it challenging to create tight seams, which can result in water seeping past the surface layer and causing swelling and delamination. Moisture problems can even start in the factory, affecting the adhesion of the top wear layer.
Attempts at Solutions
Historically, laminate flooring manufacturers have advised against installing their products in moist locations. While some products are marketed as “water-resistant,” they still come with limitations and warranty restrictions. To address the demand for truly waterproof options, some manufacturers have developed products with a waterproof coating or altered fiberboard core formulations. However, most of these products are still not entirely waterproof due to their core composition.
Pros and Cons of Waterproof Laminate Flooring
Pros:
– More resistant to moisture than standard laminate flooring
– Better scratch resistance compared to vinyl
– Easy DIY installation
Cons:
– Usually not truly waterproof
– Limited style and color choices
– Considerably more expensive than standard laminate flooring
Waterproof Laminate Cost
Waterproof laminate flooring typically costs between $3 to $5 per square foot, with an average of around $4.50 per square foot. In comparison, standard laminate flooring averages about $2.50 per square foot. While waterproof laminate comes at a premium price, it offers enhanced moisture resistance.
Maintenance and Repair
Maintaining waterproof laminate flooring is similar to caring for standard laminate. Regular sweeping and dust-mopping are recommended, with deeper cleaning using a damp mop or approved laminate cleaning products. Repairing severe damage may require disassembling the floor to replace damaged boards.
Design and Installation
Design options for waterproof laminate flooring are more limited compared to standard laminates. Installation utilizes a click-lock method, starting at one wall and laying down planks across the floor. Most products require a foam underlayment, but some come with a preattached foam backing for easier installation.
Waterproof Laminate vs. Luxury Vinyl Flooring
While waterproof laminate offers advantages over standard laminate, luxury vinyl flooring has become the preferred choice for truly waterproof options. Luxury vinyl planks or tiles are made from synthetic materials without a fiberboard core, making them more resistant to moisture. Although luxury vinyl is slightly more expensive than standard laminate, it is more affordable than most genuinely waterproof laminates.
Is Waterproof Laminate Right for You?
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a flooring material that is genuinely waterproof, luxury vinyl flooring may be a better choice. While waterproof laminate has its benefits, it still falls short of being entirely waterproof due to its core composition. Luxury vinyl offers a wide variety of options, easy installation, and superior moisture resistance, making it a practical choice for wet areas in your home.
So, before making a decision, carefully consider your needs and the characteristics of each type of flooring to select the best option for your home. Whether you choose waterproof laminate or luxury vinyl, both offer durable, low-maintenance flooring solutions that can enhance the beauty of your space for years to come.
