But if you clicked on this blog, you’re probably wondering if luxury vinyl plank flooring is waterproof. Can it really withstand daily spills and messes better than other flooring options? Is vinyl plank flooring waterproof? Is another crucial query. Let’s discuss what vinyl plank flooring is and isn’t, and if it actually is “waterproof.”
The biggest advantage of vinyl plank flooring is the fact that it is 100% water resistant. This guarantees that spills and surface water won’t harm the flooring. For areas like basements, kitchens, bathrooms, restaurants, and cafes, it is the perfect flooring option.
Keep reading.
What is Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Compared to regular vinyl, vinyl plank flooring is very different. Regular vinyl flooring materials are very thin and flexible, and typically come in sheets, but luxury vinyl plank flooring is much more sturdy and thick. This flooring option comes in long planks like hardwood, but snaps together via a tongue-and-groove connection system typically referred to as a “click-lock.”
LVT, or luxury vinyl tile, and LVP, or luxury vinyl plank, are the two main subcategories of luxury vinyl flooring. The difference is just what it sounds like: LVT mimics tile flooring, while LVP mimics wood. The terms tend to be used interchangeably in the flooring industry, so don’t be confused by references to “vinyl plank flooring,” as it refers to the fact that the flooring comes in long planks, but can mimic many materials, including tile or stone. Some types of laminate flooring resemble vinyl flooring in appearance, cost, and construction, but laminate is made of wood byproducts, whereas vinyl is made of polymer materials.
Given its low cost, elegant appearance, and ease of maintenance, vinyl plank flooring has been rising in popularity. In contrast to laminate, which must be glued down, it can be cleaned with a damp or wet mop and is incredibly simple to install and remove. These factors account for the preference of many homeowners for this flooring option over more expensive ones.
Is Vinyl Plank Flooring Waterproof?
You must first understand the distinction between the terms “water-resistant,” “waterproof,” and “flood-proof” in order to be able to respond to this question.
When a material is water-resistant, it can withstand water and other spills for a certain period of time, but the liquid will eventually permeate the surface of the material and cause issues. Something that is waterproof can withstand daily spills and small puddles but will never allow water to penetrate it, regardless of how long the liquid is left on the surface.
It is quite another thing to be floodproof. If large amounts of water or other liquids are spilled and not immediately cleared away, and the cracks between the planks have not been sealed, the liquid will seep into a waterproof floor and get beneath it. You should swap out your luxury vinyl plank flooring immediately if there is flooding or standing water in your home for an extended period of time. Otherwise, serious damage may result. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is therefore waterproof but not floodproof.
Vinyl plank flooring is distinguished from laminate and hardwood options by its waterproof quality. Because it is completely synthetic, vinyl plank flooring is able to resist penetration of water and avoid the buckling and warping that can occur with laminate and hardwood flooring that has been exposed to water for a prolonged period of time. In fact, a luxury vinyl plank will retain its appearance even after being submerged in water. Although we have already mentioned that flooding will eventually result in mold and damage to the subfloor, waterproof vinyl flooring is still more resistant to mold and mildew. In that case, we would still advise replacing the flooring.
Something else to note is that some types of luxury vinyl flooring are water resistant and not entirely waterproof, so make sure to understand the difference before purchasing!
How is Waterproof Vinyl Flooring Constructed?
Vinyl flooring’s primary components are what really determine whether it is waterproof or water resistant. The majority of WPC and SPC options also come with an attached pad (underlayment), which provides additional sound insulation, improved comfort, antimicrobial protection, and the ability to install underfloor heating systems. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is typically made of four layers of material, and if you want a vinyl floor that is completely waterproof, it must be an SPC or WPC product.
Waterproof Vinyl Commercial Flooring Applications
When choosing vinyl for commercial flooring applications, durability will be just as important a factor as waterproof core materials. The finished luxury vinyl floor will be more durable if the wear layer of the vinyl plank is thicker.
Your waterproof vinyl flooring option should have a minimum wear layer thickness of 20mil to withstand heavy commercial foot traffic and routine cleaning. A premium polyurethane wear layer with aluminum oxide or ceramic bead technology will offer even greater surface protection and maintain a better appearance over time in a commercial setting.
What’s the Difference Between Water-Resistant Vs. Waterproof?
Despite the fact that vinyl plank flooring naturally provides more moisture protection than other hard surface options, it’s still important to manage expectations and make sure your choice can withstand the conditions in a bathroom, kitchen, mudroom, or basement. When shopping for vinyl flooring, you will come across both “waterproof vinyl plank flooring” and “water-resistant vinyl plank flooring” product listings. Before you install any vinyl plank flooring as a moisture protection solution, it’s imperative to understand the difference between the terms “water-resistant” and “waterproof.”
Being water-resistant means that these vinyl floors can withstand typical household occurrences such as topical spills, pet accidents, or moisture tracked in on a rainy day. Your floors won’t be compromised or harmed as long as you clean up the spill quickly, but water-resistant vinyl planks cannot withstand persistent spills like plumbing leaks, an overflowing bath, or a flooded basement from a thunderstorm.
Waterproof vinyl flooring can not only take on topical spills and household moisture but is built with an impenetrable surface and material. A locking mechanism and tight joints are typically used to install waterproof vinyl planks. This warranted waterproof claim is only applicable to surface moisture; it does not apply to moisture that might seep in from the perimeter of the floor or from below. However, these planks can handle standing water without being compromised- which is an amazing benefit to bring home!
FAQs
What Happens If Vinyl Plank Flooring Gets Wet?
Luxury vinyl planks (or tiles) are, in themselves, completely water-proof and cannot be damaged by exposure to moisture. For that reason they are an excellent choice for laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens and other areas where moisture is around.
Which is Better Waterproof Laminate Or Vinyl Plank?
While both vinyl and laminate can wick away moisture easily, vinyl is completely waterproof, which means you should go with vinyl for rooms that get a lot of moisture and high traffic.
How Long Will Vinyl Plank Flooring Last?
Vinyl flooring is incredibly robust. If installed and maintained correctly, it can last upwards of 10-20 years. That said, vinyl is a great choice for the rooms in your house that get the most foot traffic. The wear layer on the surface of the majority of vinyl flooring also protects it from stains and scratches.
Is Vinyl Plank Slippery When Wet?
Moisture, grease, dust, floor polish and soap are among the major causes of slippery vinyl floors. To begin with, try to minimize or completely avoid having these products on your floors. To completely get rid of them, though, is not always possible.
Can I Walk on Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Glued-down tiles or planks, however, require some time to cure. At least 48 hours must pass for this process. Like luxury vinyl, carpet and laminate that is not glued to the subfloor can be walked on immediately. Furniture cannot be made from brands that need to be glued down for at least 24 hours.
Summary: Is Vinyl Plank Flooring Waterproof?
The fact that vinyl plank flooring is completely waterproof is its greatest benefit. This means that surface water and spills will not affect the floor. This makes it the perfect flooring choice for a basement, kitchen, bathroom, restaurant, and coffee shop.
If you have any questions, please leave a comment. My Prime Home tries to give you the best home improvement information. Don’t forget to share the post. Thank you for reading.
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