Because accidents happen and spills and leaks can occur frequently in one’s home or place of business, many homeowners and property owners are turning to waterproof flooring to prevent costly damages.
The good news is that there is a range of waterproof flooring options available in the market today that you can choose from. Some of the most common types of waterproof flooring include:
- Vinyl Flooring
- Laminate Flooring
- Porcelain Flooring
The first step in choosing a waterproof floor for your home or business is to determine if the flooring is actually waterproof. There are many types of flooring that are labeled as “water-resistant”. This means that the flooring has some factor that could become damaged if liquid is left on the floor. On the other hand, waterproof means that the floor is 100 percent invulnerable to water.
Waterproof Flooring Types
Vinyl
Waterproof vinyl flooring has actually been around for quite some time, but this type of flooring has dramatically improved since it was first introduced. It is now much more durable than it was back in the day. When looking for this type of flooring, it’s critical to ensure that whatever brand you choose is 100 percent waterproof.
Pros
- In addition to being waterproof, this vinyl is also resistant to scratches and stains.
- This flooring is very attractive and can be used in all living spaces within a home.
- You can choose to have the vinyl flooring take the look of hardwood or natural stone at a much more reasonable cost.
- Vinyl flooring does not require lengthy ongoing maintenance.
- Vinyl flooring does not require a complicated installation process and can even be installed over subfloors, such as tile, granite, cement, and more.
Cons
- If vinyl is glued down, it can be difficult to remove.
- This type of flooring is not biodegradable.
- If this type of flooring is left outside, it is possible that it will fade or become discolored.
- Vinyl can experience dents or tears if heavy or sharp objects are dropped onto it.
Waterproof Porcelain and Ceramic Tile Flooring
Waterproof porcelain and ceramic tile come with a glaze that prevents water from soaking into the tile. It is also extremely easy to clean up any spills or leaks when one does occur. Because this type of flooring is available in many different colors and styles, you can choose the right one that works with your walls, countertops, and other furniture.
Pros
- Easy to clean, repair, and remove.
- Ceramic tile is 100 percent waterproof and prevents costly damages from leaks or spills.
- This flooring material is usually cheaper than vinyl and other flooring types.
- Ceramic tile looks good in all rooms, so you can install it in each room.
- It is both recyclable and eco-friendly – making it a top choice for homeowners everywhere.
Cons
- While you do have the option to install heated tile underneath the porcelain or ceramic tile, this flooring type can often be cold on your feet and susceptible to becoming slippery when wet.
- Ceramic tile can be difficult to install on your own, so you will require the services of an experienced flooring expert.
- Nowadays, ceramic is much more durable than it has been in the past, but it still runs the risk of breaking.
Waterproof Laminate Flooring
Waterproof laminate flooring is a beautiful type of flooring that comes in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles. Unlike in the past, laminate flooring no longer easily cracks or breaks. One thing to note is that most laminate flooring is only water-resistant, rather than fully waterproof. This is sufficient for homeowners if they are not in locations that frequently experience flooding.
Pros
- Laminate flooring is very easy to care for and does not require hefty ongoing maintenance.
- This type of flooring is water-resistant and allows for easy clean-up of spills or leaks.
- Laminate flooring has a fairly easy installation process and can be installed over other types of flooring to speed up the process.
- This type of flooring is typically cheaper than other types of flooring, such as vinyl.
Cons
- Because laminate flooring is not 100 percent waterproof, it can warp or become damaged if liquid remains on the flooring for too long.
- Unlike vinyl, laminate flooring does not provide a cushion-like feeling when walking on this type of flooring
The Best Flooring in South Florida
At JC Floors Plus, we are one of the leading providers of waterproof flooring in South Florida. We provide a range of flooring options including carpet, laminate, tile, stone, hardwood, and vinyl – to name a few. Contact us today for more information.