The Truth About Waterproof Floors: What to Know Before You Buy

Finding flooring that can handle daily life and still look great should be a top priority.

Whether you have a busy household, a home with pets, or a room prone to moisture, you need a floor that can stand up to the challenge.

Waterproof flooring, such as luxury vinyl, sheet vinyl, or tile, is often suggested as the solution.

But what does waterproof really mean? And is waterproof flooring right for your home?

Are Waterproof Floors Actually Waterproof?

The short answer is, yes. But it’s important to understand what the term “waterproof” means.

A truly waterproof floor has a core and surface that are impervious to water. This means the material itself will not swell, warp, or degrade when exposed to moisture.

However, it’s also important to remember that a waterproof floor does not make your entire room waterproof. A major flood or prolonged exposure can still cause water to seep underneath the flooring, where it can damage the subfloor and create an environment for mold and mildew.

Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant Flooring

You will often see flooring labeled as water-resistant. Water-resistant flooring can handle moisture and spills for a short period of time but needs to be cleaned up quickly. Waterproof flooring, on the other hand, is designed to fully resist water penetration, providing longer-lasting protection.

What Flooring Options Are Waterproof?

Several flooring products are manufactured with full waterproof qualities, giving homeowners flexibility in both style and performance. Each option comes with its own strengths, making it easier to match your lifestyle and design goals.

Luxury Vinyl (Plank and Tile) & Sheet Vinyl

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP), luxury vinyl tile (LVT), and sheet vinyl are leading choices in waterproof flooring. Their layered construction makes them durable against scratches, dents, and moisture, while their highly realistic wood, stone, and tile visuals provide design versatility. Sheet vinyl comes in large rolls with minimal seams, offering strong resistance to water infiltration. Luxury vinyl plank and tile are individual pieces that lock together, making proper installation important to ensure their waterproof properties. These floors combine style with practical performance, making them a top pick for busy households.

Tile

When properly installed and sealed, porcelain and ceramic tile flooring becomes a waterproof surface, capable of handling direct water exposure without damage. Tile offers exceptional durability and a wide range of design options, making it a timeless choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and other wet areas.

Waterproof Laminate

Traditional laminate is not waterproof, but newer products feature sealed edges and waterproof cores that provide enhanced protection. These floors offer the familiar look of laminate with an upgrade in performance. While not as widely used as vinyl or tile, waterproof laminate can be a smart option in the right setting.

Engineered Hardwood

Some engineered hardwood products are built with waterproof cores or treated surfaces that resist moisture more effectively than solid hardwood. Because this feature is product-specific, it’s important to confirm details before selecting engineered hardwood for areas with potential water exposure.

Where to Install Waterproof Flooring

Waterproof flooring is perfect for rooms where water is a daily concern.

• Kitchens: Ideal for handling spills, splashes, and daily wear in high-traffic cooking areas.
• Bathrooms: Handles humidity and direct water exposure, keeping floors safe and durable.
• Laundry Rooms: Protects against leaks and standing water from appliances.
• Basements: Prevents damage from moisture or minor flooding, making it a practical choice for below-grade spaces.
• High-Traffic Areas: Mudrooms, hallways, and entryways benefit from durability and protection against spills and dirt.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Waterproof Flooring?

Waterproof flooring offers strong protection against moisture and daily wear, but it’s important to understand both the benefits and limitations before making a choice.

Pros

• High durability, resisting scratches, dents, and everyday wear
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Wide variety of styles and finishes to suit any home
• Provides peace of mind against spills and minor accidents

Cons

• Does not prevent subfloor damage if water penetrates beneath the surface
• Requires proper installation to ensure full waterproof performance
• Can feel firmer or cooler underfoot compared with carpet or solid hardwood

Is Waterproof Flooring Right for My Home?

Waterproof flooring works well in many households but deciding if it’s right for you depends on lifestyle, room use, and maintenance needs.

• Lifestyle: Your household may make waterproof flooring a practical choice. If you have children, pets, or high foot traffic, these floors will better withstand spills, scratches, and everyday wear.
• Room Use: Some rooms benefit more from waterproof flooring. Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements often need waterproof protection, while bedrooms or living areas may prioritize comfort or warmth over moisture protection.
• Maintenance: While most waterproof floors are easy to clean, some materials require extra attention. For example, tile may need periodic grout sealing to maintain its waterproof performance.
• Budget: Consider the long-term value. Higher-quality waterproof options may cost more upfront, but they can reduce the need for future repairs or replacements.

Choosing the Right Waterproof Flooring for Your Home

Waterproof flooring offers durability, design flexibility, and protection against everyday spills and moisture. By considering your lifestyle, the rooms you want to protect, maintenance needs, and budget, you can select the option that best fits your home.

Visit us at ICC Floors Plus in Central Indiana to see samples in person and speak with our flooring experts. We can help you find a waterproof flooring solution that combines style, performance, and long-term value.