Waterproof vs. water-resistant flooring: Is there a difference?

Yes, it's essential to understand the difference, so you know what you are getting.

Waterproof = impervious

The capability is "baked in" a waterproof product because it is composed of entirely waterproof materials. Waterproof floors have no special coatings to help them along; it's impervious from bottom to top, which can be submerged or spilled on. All it needs is a wipe dry, and it can be reused. Water-resistant products need spills to be wiped immediately, or they will break the barrier and soak the core.

Waterproof flooring options for any room in the house

Especially with our busy, hectic lifestyles today, every room is just as susceptible to spills and drops as the kitchen or bath. We eat in the family or living room, and it's not even unusual to see long holiday tables extending from the dining room into other spaces, such as the living room. We have "breakfast in bed" or drink our coffee while getting ready for the day, and hallways get muddy, dirt and moisture tracked in on our shoes.

Some stylish and functional options are:

1. Wood and stone-look tile: Porcelain is often the preferred choice for these looks because of the large format with fewer seams.

2. Luxury vinyl: Nature-inspired, true-to-life echoes of wood, stone, and tile are created with high-definition photographs. Micro beveling and embossing add depth, dimension, and textured looks, and they can be cut into planks or square, tile-sized pieces for even more realism.

3. Waterproof (vinyl) flooring: A newer, more advanced version of luxury vinyl, this flooring is engineered to be thicker and more durable. It is constructed with the WPC (wood plastic composite) or SPC (stone plastic composite) cores that won?t peel or ripple ever, no matter how much water there is for how long. While both WPC and SPC have the same level of moisture protection, SPC is firmer and more rigid with the feeling of an authentic hard surface.

4. Waterproof laminate: Mainly associated with hardwood, stone looks are now becoming more and more popular. A non-wood construction makes it spill-proof, eliminating concerns about soaking and staining.

Mark?s Floors works with homeowners, realtors, contractors, and builders, and we can help you select the ideal floor, whether you?re looking for waterproof flooring, hardwood, or something else. Come into our showrooms in any of our two locations: Minneola & Winter Garden, FL, serving Clermont, Apopka, Fruitland Park, Eustis, Groveland, Leesburg, Ocoee, Sorrento, Windermere, Tavares, Zellwood, and Umatilla. You'll be glad you came in and will walk out with a free quote.