Think your luxury vinyl or laminate floor is 100% waterproof? Sorry, but it’s not true. Flooring manufacturers love to throw the word ‘waterproof’ around, but these products will only protect you against small spills—not floods. If you really need a waterproof floor, your only option is porcelain tile.
Big Claims: If you’ve shopped for luxury vinyl or laminate flooring you’ve likely seen the words '100% waterproof' plastered everywhere. It certainly sounds great. No more worrying about spills, leaks, or even full-on floods.
In truth, only porcelain tile deserves that 100% waterproof label. That's because water can travel underneath luxury vinyl plank and laminate floors. It's not because the actual planks are harmed—it's because the area underneath your floor may sprout black mold.
Yes, technically you could disassemble your floor, rinse everything, dry it all out, and reassemble it piece by piece. (Assuming you remember how to put that jigsaw puzzle back together.) But realistically? It’s far easier to replace the entire floor.
So, waterproof flooring is more like a half truth. Technically, LVP and laminate planks won't be harmed by water. It also has good water resistance for smaller spills—which can be a great asset for homes with kids and pets. Just don't expect your floor to survive a flood unscathed unless you choose porcelain tile.
If you have any questions about waterproof floors, give us a call at 401-214-0285 or visit our showroom. We serve customers throughout Rhode Island and southeastern New England, including Newport, Middletown, Jamestown, Portsmouth, Bristol and more.
About Ken: Ken Fain is the co-owner of Island Carpet in Middletown, RI and a floorcovering veteran of more than 40 years. His popular 'Ask Ken' video series answers common flooring questions on a variety of topics. It has reached thousands of viewers on both YouTube and Facebook.
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