Water damage is a problem every home faces over time. These damages occur from water that occasionally sits on the top of the floor, or it seeps from underneath the basement or just moisture in the air.

You should consider several options, before any decision to buy is made. For instance, both waterproof and water-resistant flooring comes with lots of advantage. To know the differences will save you time and money.

Before we list each floor’s benefits, let’s briefly explain what each floor type can do separately.

Waterproof Flooring

Waterproof flooring means that it can resist any amount of water, floods or moisture in the air. Yet it doesn't damage. Some of these luxury vinyl flooring options like USFloorsCORETec and Shaw Floorte are waterproof, though not all of them.

Any floor with 100% waterproof capability will be visible. Manufacturer’s take pride in 100% waterproof trademark. One vital factor to consider is while the floor itself may be waterproof, subfloor underneath is likely not, which keeps them prone to water damage.

Water Resistant Flooring

As for water-resistant flooring, it can't withstand heavy spills, floods or enough moisture. Hard flooring designs are built to handle the little amount of water that gets in easily. The same goes for Hardwood. For the fact that hardwood can only withstand small amounts of water on its surface, use it sparingly. This means you should place it in areas that are not likely to get wet.

One type of water-resistant flooring is laminate. The outer layer is normally waterproof, although water drops in the line between the planks which damages the core. Although there are newer laminates like, Armstrong floor which come as water-resistant, if the water is not cleaned, it gets damaged over time. 

What’s their Difference?

Know that you have an idea of what water-resistant and waterproof is, let's briefly check their differences.

First, both terms point to a material that prevents or repels water from invading into the area. That's why they're best for use in bathroom, kitchens, or rooms. Yet these two terms are not interchangeable.

For waterproof, a permanent material that withstands water at all cost. You can use waterproof floors in your room but are expensive to buy. While water-resistant refers to floors that protect subfloors from water.

What are the Benefits of Waterproof Flooring?

Although expensive, waterproof flooring has any benefits than water-resistant flooring.

A lot of people consider waterproof as a better choice of flooring. It cost higher than water-resistant floors. The price can be worth it, although this depends on where you install it.

For water-resistant flooring, (mainly hardwood) if water gets inside, the flooring gets swells and cracks that ruin the floor. The only way is to replace.

However, if waterproof is your choice then you can purchase waterproof hardwood floors.

Vinyl flooring (VPC) is a great waterproof choice, as it won't decay if exposed to heavy spills for a long period. Plus the color of the floor remains intact.

You won't have to bother off the floor if any breaks happen towards its waterproof flooring materials. You can install it anywhere in your home. Whether the room, kitchen, basement, and bathroom. Moreover, take caution in installing it outdoor. Waterproof flooring is not resistant to the sun. So take note.

Waterproof floors prevent heavy moisture in the air due to floods or climate change. So you are from the above events likely to occur, especially if you live in a humid climate.

N.B: While the most luxury vinyl floor is waterproof, do not assume all of them are same. Also keep in mind that while the floor is waterproof, the subfloor may not. To be safe, you will need to prevent water from getting under the subfloor.

What are the Benefits of Water-Resistant Flooring?

Although cheap, water-resistant floor can cover most rooms, unlike waterproof flooring.

One factor to consider is the water-resistant floor allows water to sit on its surface. Provided you mop up water on the floor immediately, that way subfloor stays dry. You can install water-resistant flooring in your kitchen but you have to be alert. The reason is simple. You wouldn't want water spills on it for a long period. You can take certain measures like a roll-on moisture barrier. This tool protects the floor from extra moisture and tightens the adhesive.

Water-resistant flooring handles small spills occasionally. This maintains your floor and lasts longer

In Conclusion

Did you enjoy reading this article? Was it helpful to you?

It's vital to research on the type of flooring that suits you before any purchase. So you don't save money to get a water-resistant floor that gets battered with heavy spills. That leads to more spends down the road.

If you’re considering a flooring choice for areas in your home with constant water spills, consult this guide.

Do you have any questions on this topic? Please let us know in the comments! If you enjoyed this post, please share gracefully!!!  ~Remember sharing is caring! ~

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