Can You Waterproof Laminate Flooring?
The answer is No, laminate flooring isn’t waterproof. There is a common misperception out there that laminate is waterproof and many homeowners confuse between vinyl and laminate flooring.
Many types of vinyl flooring are waterproof or are water resistant. Laminate, however, is made out of recycled hardwood, so it isn’t waterproof. If someone tells you about waterproof floating floor, don’t believe them right away.
Due to the melamine wear layer, it has a tough finish that resists against scratches and may have minor protection against quick spills.
But, like hardwood, laminate doesn’t do well with standing water-regardless of whether the water is topical or seeping into the sub-floor from below. Laminate also doesn’t do well in areas with high humidity.
Though there is nothing like waterproof laminate flooring, you can make it waterproof. Let us see how!
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Use Silicone To Prevent Water Damage
An easy way to prevent water damage to your laminate floor is to use silicone caulking gun to fill cracks where water could drain into and cause damage.
Apply High Quality Top Coat To The Laminate
Applying a top coat to the laminate floor involves treating the entirety of the floor. Unlike silicone caulking which simply protects target areas of the floor from damage, coating the laminate involves covering he entire surface with polyurethane.
Is Laminate Flooring Water Resistant?
Flooring experts are often asked if laminate flooring is water resistant. The answer is yes and no. With new laminate technology, several manufacturers are offering best waterproof flooring that withstands spills and surface moisture.
With laminate flooring, most spills can be wiped up easily and will not harm the floor. But if you let spills soak into the laminate joints, major issues can occur.
What Should You Watch Out For?
Something to watch out for is that its status as moisture resistant means laminate isn’t considered weatherproof by manufacturers. It means if it’s used on the outside deck, even if its undercover, it won’t be covered by the warranty.
When cleaning water resistant laminate flooring, use spray mop with a microfibre pad, with plain water. You don’t want chemicals reacting with flooring and damaging it.
It exposes the boards to less water. Some manufacturers recommend using their cleaning products.
Finally, water resistant hardwood flooring is great for most areas, but as mentioned above, you must avoid using it in wet or moist areas, such as bathrooms and basements, as it’s not a waterproof product.
Related Article: Why Choose Laminate Flooring For Home?
