The Ultimate Guide to Waterproof Flooring

Moisture is the natural enemy of most flooring types. Wood warps, carpets mold, and laminate swells. But technology has given us solutions that let you have beautiful, wood-look floors even in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and sculleries.

What Does "Waterproof" Really Mean?

It's important to distinguish between water-resistant and waterproof.
Water-resistant: Can handle spills if wiped up relatively quickly (e.g., standard laminate).
Waterproof: The material itself is impervious to water. You could submerge it in a pool, take it out, dry it, and reinstall it (e.g., vinyl).

Best Waterproof Options

1. Luxury Vinyl Tiles/Planks (LVT/LVP)

This is the gold standard. Whether it's glue-down or click-lock (SPC), vinyl is entirely synthetic and 100% waterproof from top to bottom. It's perfect for bathrooms.

2. Tiles

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the traditional choice. They are waterproof but can be cold and hard underfoot. Grout lines also require maintenance.

What About "Waterproof Laminate"?

Some newer laminates feature water-repellent coatings and tight locking systems that prevent water from seeping down for up to 24-72 hours. These are great for kitchens but are still generally not recommended for bathrooms where standing water is common.