Choosing the right flooring is crucial for home, office, and medical environments. Besides aesthetics, the durability of the flooring is vital. For areas like bathrooms, kitchens, hospitals, and offices that experience high foot traffic and frequent cleaning, water-resistant flooring is essential. In the past, wooden floors, which were not water-resistant, were commonly used and would swell when exposed to water. However, with advancements in this field, porcelain floors that are water-resistant or even waterproof have been developed. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of waterproof and water-resistant flooring.
Waterproof vs. water-resistant flooring
The main distinction lies in the ingredients of these two types of flooring. In terms of water protection, water-resistant flooring offers some protection and should be cleaned promptly, whereas waterproof flooring provides much greater resistance and stronger protection, allowing for safer use.
Choosing the right flooring
When selecting flooring for wet areas, it’s important to consider where it will be used. There are two main types of floor coverings based on their contact with water: waterproof and water-resistant. Waterproof flooring is suitable for environments that require regular cleaning, such as hospitals, bathrooms, basements, and kitchens at home. On the other hand, water-resistant flooring is ideal for areas less prone to water exposure. It’s essential to have all types of flooring professionally installed to ensure correct placement with no seams for water penetration. Additionally, proper maintenance and care are important for the longevity of the flooring.
Waterproof flooring
These floors are resistant to water and won’t get damaged when washed. However, it’s important to note that they only provide partial waterproofing. The sensitivity of these floorings to water varies. For areas with high humidity, like basements, kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms, it’s best to use water-resistant floorings such as porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles. In the next section, we will explore other types of flooring.
PVC waterproof flooring
PVC or vinyl flooring is made from a type of plastic that is processed from petroleum. It is available in a variety of colors and is resistant to scratches. It is also more durable and less expensive than ceramic flooring. The flooring comes in rolls or as individual tiles that are glued to the ground. Professional installation is recommended to ensure there are no seams for water to penetrate.
SPC waterproof flooring
The floors closely resemble real wood but are actually composed of several layers, with a central layer made of stone powder. They exhibit high strength and are resistant to damage from impacts or falls. Additionally, they are waterproof, making them safe for use in bathrooms and toilets.
Water-resistant flooring
These floorings provide some protection against water. For instance, when water is spilled, it should be cleaned immediately to prevent damage.
Water-resistant Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is made up of several layers. Its central layer is composed of wood fibers. While it is not entirely waterproof, it is resistant to water for approximately two hours. It is essential to dry it within this time to prevent damage.
Conclusion
In terms of moisture-resistant, there are two types of flooring: waterproof and water-resistant. These types can prevent water damage to the environment. In this article, we have explained both types of flooring for you to consider based on the cost and the environment where you want to install the flooring. You can decide whether to choose waterproof or water-resistant flooring.
Read More:
- The best flooring for the kitchen
- The best flooring for the bathroom
- Difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles
- Difference Between Red and White Body Tiles
- Differences Between Tile and Marble Flooring
- Difference between vitrified and porcelain tiles
- Difference between ceramic and vitrified tiles
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FAQs:
- 1. Are water-resistant and waterproof flooring the same thing?
No, waterproof flooring is impermeable to water, but water will eventually seep into water-resistant flooring after two hours.
- What are the benefits of water-resistant flooring?
These floor coverings are reasonably priced, easy to clean, and have good resistance to stains and heat.
- How does waterproof flooring protect against water damage?
Due to the materials used in the construction of these floors, water does not penetrate them, thus preventing water damage.
- Which rooms in the house require water-resistant or waterproof flooring?
Waterproof flooring is better for bathrooms, toilets, and kitchens, and water-resistant flooring for rooms.
- Can water-resistant or waterproof flooring be installed in basements?
Yes, by installing waterproof flooring in the basement, you will be relieved of water infiltration and its possible dangers.