If you are looking to transform your space easily and affordably – laminate flooring is the way to go! It shares the same beauty of the coveted hardwood look but has a greater resistance to dents and scratches and won't fade or change color over time. And, best of all, it's easy to maintain!
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant Laminate Flooring: What’s the Difference?
Waterproof and water-resistant laminate are made like traditional laminate flooring, but with a slight difference in the core layer. The core layer, typically made of compressed high-density fiberboard, is where the most waterproof and water-resistant qualities live. Additionally, there is still a major difference between the two.
- Waterproof laminate means that water should never be able to penetrate the flooring, no matter how much time as passed.
- Water-resistant laminate typically means that there is a top surface that is highly resistant to moisture (hence the name). So, if you can't get to a spill right away, the water-resistance will help you buy some time before it soaks through - but it will soak in eventually.
If you’re new to laminate, read our guide on everything you need to know before buying laminate flooring.
Choosing the best waterproof laminate flooring for your space
When deciding which laminate flooring is the right choice for your space, consider the traffic levels in the home. Opt for a higher AC rating for high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms.
When you buy laminate from Avalon Flooring, you’re choosing a reputable brand known for quality materials and warranty coverage, ensuring you a long-lasting investment.
Explore our range of styles and textures available to match your home's style:
Waterproof laminate vs LVP
Waterproof laminate and luxury vinyl planks are both affordable, durable options for your home. If you’re concerned about water damage, though, waterproof laminate is the way to go. LVP can handle most spills, but water can still seep into the seams or edges. Waterproof laminate, however, is much more resistant to spills and moisture.
Explore more water resistant and waterproof flooring options.
Pros and Cons of Laminate Flooring
When it comes to the benefits of laminate flooring, just about everything you've read or heard about laminate is true. In fact, it'd be hard to find a flooring material with a larger upside than laminate.
Pros to waterproof laminate floors:
- Waterproof: As the name suggests, the biggest pro is the protection both waterproof and water-resistant laminate offer against moisture. This makes laminate flooring great choices for spaces that tend to get the most spills like bathrooms, kitchens and even laundry rooms.
- Durability: Laminate flooring is very durable, more than hardwood, which makes it both pet-friendly and family-friendly and a great option for high-traffic areas such as kids' rooms, kitchens, and living areas. To add to this advantage, it can also withstand exposure to sunlight for a long period of time and not fade. The word durable now seems like an understatement.
- Easy maintenance: There are no special instructions or materials needed for maintenance. Dust and spills can easily be eliminated with a vacuum, broom or even a slightly damp mop. Isn't that so easy? With this simple maintenance, you'll get many years of beautiful laminate flooring!
- Affordability: Laminate wood flooring can look and feel like authentic hardwood floors, but without the high price tag. This makes it perfect for the budget-conscious homeowner searching for an affordable and stylish flooring option. We could all go for an option that'll save us some money, right?
Aesthetic: In the past, it was easy to tell that laminate was artificial wood. But today, with technological advances, it's now difficult to tell the difference between laminate and hardwood. This makes it a great option for anyone who wants the look (and even feel) of hardwood and other natural materials (even stone) without the hard and tedious work and price.
Potential disadvantages to laminate floors:
- Replaceable but cannot be refinished: Laminate flooring usually cannot be sanded down and refinished like solid hardwood. However, this isn’t necessarily a downside, as new planks can be purchased to replace damaged areas.
- Matching replacements: While replacing planks make single repairs easy, finding new planks may be difficult if you run out years down the road. We always recommend customers buy more than their square foot requires and keep “attic stock” for this reason.
Remember to prioritize factors like durability, warranty coverage, and installation costs when selecting laminate flooring for your home. With the right choice, you can enjoy the beauty of laminate flooring while ensuring it meets your specific needs for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is laminate flooring?
Laminate is a synthetic multi-layer floor that's fused together in a lamination process. Laminate flooring is comprised of 4 layers: wear layer, design layer, inner core, and backing. These 4 layers make up laminate floor thickness, which typically ranges from 6-12mm.
How much does laminate flooring cost?
Laminate flooring is generally more affordable than hardwood and other natural materials, making it a budget-friendly option. Laminate flooring typically costs $1-5 per square foot, plus installation.
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What makes laminate flooring waterproof?
Waterproof laminate flooring has a moisture-resistant core and tight locking system to prevent water from getting between the planks. This makes it a great option for kitchens, bathrooms, and other rooms where spills are common.
How long does laminate flooring last?
With proper cleaning and preventative measures to keep loose dirt and grit from scratching the flooring, laminate flooring can last anywhere from 10-25 years, or more!
What rooms are the best places to use laminate flooring?
Waterproof laminate makes it a great flooring option for bathrooms, kitchens and even basements! It’s durability and wood-look option also make it an attractive choice for family rooms, living rooms and hallways.
How much does it cost to install laminate floors?
The price for installing laminate varies depending on which product you select. Having it professionally installed is not only cost efficient but also comes backed by a 3-year warranty. Learn more about our installation services>.
How long does laminate flooring need to acclimate?
It is often recommended that the product be allowed to acclimate in your home for a minimum of 48 hours before the installation begins.
