Good Things To Know Before Buying Waterproof Flooring

Finding the right flooring for your home can be mind numbingly frustrating, especially when considering factors like durability and water resistance—especially important for those with young children. 

Did you know that waterproof vinyl flooring offers not only superior protection against spills but can also closely mimic genuine, real hardwood? 

This article will unravel the important considerations to bear in mind before purchasing waterproof flooring, as we hope to help make your decision more streamlined. JC Construction and Remodeling offers comprehensive flooring and tiling options—to replace dingy, dirty old floors—be it hardwood or linoleum. 

Different Types of Waterproof Flooring

There are various types of waterproof flooring available, including waterproof vinyl plank flooring, waterproof vinyl tile flooring, laminate vs. vinyl flooring, hardwood vs. vinyl flooring, and tile vs. vinyl flooring.

Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring

waterproof modern vinyl flooring

Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring, or LVP, is a popular choice for homes and businesses alike. With its authentic wood appearance, it enhances the visual appeal of any space. Its construction involves engineered planks that offer exceptional durability, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.

Most importantly, LVP flooring boasts 100% waterproof capabilities—an ideal feature for rooms prone to moisture exposure like kitchens and bathrooms. SPC and WPC are two noteworthy types of vinyl flooring where both offer reliable water-resistance in damp environments.

This type of resilient flooring comes in various options including luxury variants offering a high-end look without breaking your budget.

Waterproof Vinyl Tile Flooring

Waterproof vinyl tile flooring boasts a unique design advantage. It mimics the aesthetic of traditional tile floors while harnessing the resilience and low-maintenance features inherent in vinyl flooring.

Unlike common misconception, this type doesn’t make your floors flood-proof but is specifically crafted to resist everyday spills and splashes with its 100% waterproof surface. Luxury vinyl tile flooring offers an additional option for those seeking enhanced aesthetics combined with practical functionality.

Aiding in durability are two forms: WPC (wood-plastic composite) and SPC, each delivering dependable longevity despite daily wear and tear.

Laminate vs. Vinyl Flooring

worker installing laminate flooring in room

Navigating the maze of flooring options gets easier by understanding key differences, such as comparing laminate and vinyl. Vinyl flooring excels in water resistance, a trait making it more desirable for damp areas like kitchens or bathrooms.

Laminate, however, sports superior scratch-resistance and a warmer feel underfoot; important factors for spaces that see high traffic or colder climates. Both offer wear-and-tear resistant capabilities and cost-effectiveness, but with vinyl typically being the cheaper alternative.

In essence, your choice between laminate versus vinyl flooring hinges on considering the unique environmental conditions of your space along with budget constraints.

Hardwood vs. Vinyl Flooring

Hardwood and vinyl flooring are two popular options for homeowners looking to upgrade their floors. Hardwood flooring is a natural and durable choice, offering a timeless beauty that can increase the value of your home.

However, it does come with a higher price tag compared to vinyl flooring. On the other hand, vinyl flooring is a more affordable alternative that closely mimics the look of real wood while being water-resistant and easy to maintain.

While hardwood offers long-term durability due to its natural wood grains and special finishes, vinyl flooring is generally more water-resistant than laminate or hardwood options.

Tile vs. Vinyl Flooring

Tile and vinyl flooring are both popular choices for waterproof flooring, but they have some notable differences. Ceramic tile is a harder material than vinyl plank, making it more resistant to scratches, dents, and fading.

It also offers a wider range of design options, including realistic wood-look embossed planks and ceramic-look tiles. On the other hand, vinyl flooring is less expensive than tile and easier to install and remove.

Vinyl plank flooring, in particular, is commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens due to its water-resistant properties. Whether you prioritize durability or affordability, both tile and vinyl flooring are trendy options for achieving a waterproof floor that suits your style.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Waterproof Flooring

Consider the installation and maintenance requirements, budget planning, and layout planning before purchasing waterproof flooring.

Installation and Maintenance

Before purchasing waterproof flooring, it’s important to understand the installation and maintenance requirements. The good news is that waterproof vinyl flooring is relatively easy to install compared to other types of flooring.

It typically comes in a click-lock system, allowing for simple DIY installation. However, it’s crucial to prepare the subfloor properly by ensuring it is clean, dry, and level.

In terms of maintenance, vinyl flooring requires regular cleaning using a damp mop and mild cleanser. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or excessive water as they can damage the floor’s protective layer.

Additionally, be mindful of heavy furniture or sharp objects that may scratch or dent the surface. With proper care and maintenance, your waterproof vinyl flooring will remain beautiful and functional for years to come.

Budget Planning

Planning your budget is an essential step before purchasing waterproof flooring. It’s important to consider the overall cost, including the price of the flooring material, installation expenses, and any additional tools or materials needed.

Keep in mind that while waterproof vinyl flooring offers numerous benefits, it can vary in price depending on factors such as brand and quality. Set a realistic budget based on your needs and research different options within your price range.

By planning ahead and knowing what you can afford, you’ll be able to make an informed decision without breaking the bank.

Layout Planning

Proper layout planning is crucial when considering waterproof flooring for your home. This involves carefully assessing the area and determining how to best utilize the space. Additionally, it’s important to consider cutting the planks to fit around any protrusions or obstacles in order to achieve a seamless and professional look.

By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure that your waterproof flooring installation will be efficient and visually appealing. So, whether you’re looking for vinyl plank flooring or other water-resistant options, make sure to plan your layout carefully for optimal results.

Conclusion

Before purchasing waterproof flooring, it’s essential to research the different types available on the market and consider factors such as installation requirements, maintenance, longevity, and budgetary constraints. 

In doing so, you can make an informed decision and choose the right waterproof flooring for your needs. Don’t forget—knowing the distinction between waterproof and water-resistant floors is crucial when finalizing flooring options, especially for those with pets or young children. 

Contact JC Construction and Remodeling today for a free estimate on your new flooring. 

With 10 years of industry-leasing experience, we have the expertise to handle all kinds of waterproof flooring projects—be it a small bathroom project, or an entire home. Our team always works through direct communication with you to ensure we perfectly execute your vision.