Is waterproof flooring necessary?
You can use waterproof flooring in any room of the house, but it’s not really necessary for every room. True waterproof floors are more expensive than water-resistant floors, so you want to opt for waterproof flooring in areas that are more likely to see water, such as a bathroom, basement, or kitchen.
Do you need waterproof laminate for kitchen?
As long as you address the overriding concern of moisture, you can install laminate flooring in the kitchen. If you want to eliminate worries about moisture, install sheet vinyl or luxury vinyl plank (LVP). In terms of appearance, LVP is a close contender with laminate and it is 100-percent waterproof.
Can you make non waterproof laminate flooring waterproof?
Use polyurethane as a top coat. Other than installing actual waterproof flooring, this is the most effective way of protecting the laminate from water damage. The best application of the polyurethane is through a mop, allowing one layer to dry first before applying another one.
What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof laminate flooring?
Waterproof laminate means that the water will 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).
Why does laminate flooring need to be waterproof?
In the case of laminate, the top layer is a hard, clear finish that resists moisture penetration. But if water lingers on the floor, it can seep into the joints between the flooring planks and into the fiberboard core of the flooring, which is highly prone to moisture damage.
Can you use wood flooring with laminate flooring?
It’s the wood layer, however, that gives laminate the warmth and cushion that vinyl lacks. Once you remove it, you may as well opt for a vinyl floor instead. In fact, the Restorex restoration company claims that some sellers of waterproof laminate aren’t selling true laminate at all.
How much does water resistant laminate flooring cost?
As of 2019, Flooring Inc. reports that the average cost of a water-resistant laminate floor is around $3.99 per square foot, while waterproof laminate runs about $4.40 per square foot. With such a minor price difference, it makes sense to buy yourself as much water protection as you can.
Can you use water resistant laminate flooring in a guest bathroom?
Very tight seams and a water-resistant top layer will make a conventional laminate flooring suitable for cautious use in guest bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways, provided you are careful about immediately mopping up any spills that occur.