Why Waterproof Flooring is Here to Stay

As fall approaches, the rainy season brings forth a new set of challenges, from muddy shoes to drippy coats. Now, with the cold months sneaking up, it's more important than ever to think about investing in waterproof floors.

As flooring experts, we've seen that waterproof floors aren't just a fad but something that the everyday consumer demands —this flooring trend is here to stay.

Back in the day, it seemed you had to choose between the beautiful natural elements of hardwood and stone or cheap waterproof laminate flooring and vinyl. But now, with modern flooring technology leading to luxury vinyl and engineered hardwood, you no longer have to sacrifice aesthetics for practicality!

Design by KALU INTERIORS Photography by ALEEM KASSAM

But why are waterproof floors so popular all of a sudden? Well, with the increasing market for luxury vinyl, many are realizing the potential of waterproof flooring. Waterproof floors offer the convenience and durability that busy households need to push their interior design from good to great.

Convenience is Key

Design by MICHELLE BERWICK Photography by LARRY ARNAL

One of the most significant advantages of installing waterproof flooring is the convenience of it all. With waterproof flooring, you can rest easy knowing that your floors are protected against water damage and the occasional spill.

Easy to maintain, waterproof floors are ideal for busy homeowners as they make for easy clean-ups. You also have your pick of versatile flooring and a wide variety of colors, styles, and patterns to choose from, considering that waterproof floors span across several categories of flooring. 

Waterproof floors come in numerous materials, from synthetically engineered surfaces such as waterproof laminate and luxury vinyl plank flooring to naturally waterproof materials like porcelain tiles.

Work From Home Lifestyle Made Simple

Stillwater Edge Hickory by Hydrotek H2O

Work-from-home life has made waterproof floors even more popular since you practically do everything in your house nowadays. From at-home schooling to exercising in your living room to trying out a late-night Zoom painting class, the need for durable floors that can withstand your lifestyle is more important than ever. 

The demand for waterproof floors has expanded from just the bathroom and laundry rooms to the entire household —and luckily, now you can easily install waterproof materials throughout your home. Our line of Hydrotek engineered hardwood boasts waterproof, pet-proof and scratch-proof technology that's fit for any room of the house. Whether you're looking for a timeless white oak and opt for engineered hardwood, or you have your heart set on a natural stone, and you've chosen a waterproof luxury vinyl tile, waterproof floors can transform your interiors into a functional work-from-home space.

Best Flooring For Kids and Pets

Innovia Extreme Clean

From kid spills to pet accidents, waterproof floors come in handy for busy families who might not have a lot of time to spare. A fan favorite with family households is luxury vinyl and waterproof laminate, as these surfaces work as waterproof flooring for pets and are simple to maintain —plus they're cost-effective! 

Many people often wonder is vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof? And the answer to that question depends on the quality and type of vinyl you're investing in. While not all vinyl is waterproof, most luxury vinyl is including our Invincible H2O line of luxury vinyl products. This pet proof flooring has the benefit of being easy to install, with its quick click and lock system easily installing right over most subfloors. Thanks to advanced flooring technology, these floors fit together seamlessly like a jigsaw puzzle, and their wear layer includes a special sealant that locks out moisture, keeping your subfloors nice and dry.

When shopping for flooring, keep in mind that water-resistant and waterproof are not the same. For instance, some laminate floors are water-resistant, meaning that the top layer is highly resistant to moisture and can hold up to small spills, but messes should be dealt with before permanent water damage occurs. On the other hand, waterproof laminate is more durable as the material is impenetrable by water and can withstand bigger accidents.

Increase in Home Value

Delightful West Barclay by Invincible H2O

Investing in waterproof flooring can increase your home's value as the demand for this type of flooring rises. We often hear the question: what is the best waterproof flooring? The answer is dependent on several factors. Ceramic and porcelain tiles have the highest resistance when it comes to waterproof-ability. Since these materials are virtually impenetrable, liquids are locked out and remain on the surface for easy clean-up.

But tile isn't always practical for many homeowners, especially those with kids who are more likely to slip and fall and need a softer surface to play on. This is where luxury vinyl comes into play, lending a more comfortable surface underfoot. 

Before you invest in luxury vinyl, check out our blog on the 10 Things to Know Before Buying Luxury Vinyl. Read more Beautiful Design Made Simple articles for further design trends and interior inspiration.