In a place like Wisconsin, moisture is just part of life. Your floors take a hit from snowy boots, wet pets, kitchen splashes, and muddy spring days. No wonder homeowners are searching for waterproof flooring that can keep up.
But here’s where it gets tricky: waterproof vs water resistant flooring isn’t just marketing language—they’re two different things. This post breaks down the real difference between waterproof and water resistant flooring. We’ll discuss what each one does, where to use them, and how to make the right call for your home. Let’s get into it!
What Does Water-Resistant Flooring Mean?
Water resistant flooring is designed to handle small spills and splashes. If you wipe up messes quickly, your floors will be just fine. But let moisture sit too long, and it can eventually seep into seams or edges and cause damage.
Water resistant laminate floors fall into this category. They work well in dry areas or homes where water is more of an occasional issue. Ultimately, water resistance buys you a little, topically waterproof buys you peace of mind.
What Is Waterproof Flooring?
What is waterproof flooring exactly? It means the material can stand up to water—no swelling, warping, or buckling, even if water sits on the surface for hours. Types of topically waterproof flooring include:
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) with a rigid core
- Waterproof linoleum
- Waterproof sheet vinyl
- Certain tiles or sealed stone products
Waterproof floors are sealed from top to bottom and are built to handle high-moisture areas like bathrooms, basements, or laundry rooms.
Pros and Cons
Waterproof
Pros:
- Full protection from standing water
- Ideal for high-moisture areas
- Often low-maintenance
Cons:
- Typically higher cost
- Slightly fewer style options in some materials
Water-Resistant Options
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- More natural-feeling materials
- Good for dry spaces with occasional spills
Cons:
- Not safe for bathrooms or flood-prone basements
- Water left too long = damage risk
Where Should You Use Each Type in Your Home?
Use waterproof flooring in:
- Bathrooms
- Mudrooms
- Kitchens
- Basements
- Laundry rooms
Use water-resistant flooring in:
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Hallways
- Home offices
If you want a consistent look throughout your home, some homeowners opt for waterproof options in every room. Just check the LVP mil rating and luxury vinyl plank flooring thickness to be sure you’re getting the durability you need.
Find The Best Flooring Options at Our Showroom
You want flooring that looks good, holds up, and lets you live your life without constantly stressing over every drop of water. And that’s completely doable—with the right choice.
At Badger State Flooring, we understand how much your home matters. We help homeowners find flooring that fits their lifestyle, moisture levels, and budget without stress or second-guessing. Visit our showroom or contact us today to help you choose the right one.