Here at Sharon and Son's Flooring & Cabinets, we've been proudly serving Orange County residents and landlords since 1984. One of the most common questions we get from our clients is, "Can I waterproof my existing floors?" It's a great question, especially if you're dealing with high-traffic areas, kids, pets, or rooms like kitchens and bathrooms where spills and moisture are inevitable.
Waterproof Flooring vs. Water-Resistant Flooring
First, it's important to distinguish between "waterproof" and "water-resistant".
- Waterproof flooring means that the material itself is completely impervious to water damage, even with prolonged exposure.
- Water-resistant flooring can handle some moisture for a limited time, but it might eventually absorb water, leading to issues such as warping or mold.
Options for Waterproofing Existing Floors
The possibilities for waterproofing your current floors depend on the type of flooring you have:
- Hardwood and Laminate: Unfortunately, solid hardwood and traditional laminate cannot generally be retrofitted to become waterproof. If you love the look of these materials, you may consider waterproof versions of engineered wood or luxury vinyl planks (LVP) which convincingly mimic the look.
- Tile: Tile itself is often waterproof; however, the grout between tiles can be porous. Sealing grout regularly is a must, and if your grout is significantly damaged, re-grouting might be necessary for full protection.
- Concrete: Exposed concrete floors can be gorgeous. Applying a high-quality waterproof sealer or epoxy coating can both protect the concrete and give you a stylish look.
- Vinyl and Linoleum: Older sheet vinyl or linoleum may have weak points where seams can let water seep through. Newer click-together vinyl and linoleum products are generally more water-resistant, but you'll want to double-check installation and sealing if you're worried about water damage.
Truly Waterproof Options
If you find that fully waterproofing your existing floors is impractical or too expensive, you might want to consider replacing them with inherently waterproof materials. Here are some top choices:
- Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) or Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): LVP/LVT are incredibly versatile choices. They're designed to withstand heavy moisture, scratches, and daily wear and tear. Plus, they come in an enormous range of styles, including realistic wood and stone looks.
- Waterproof Engineered Hardwood: Unlike traditional hardwood, waterproof engineered hardwood features a water-resistant core that prevents warping and damage.
- Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: A classic choice for kitchens and bathrooms, ceramic or porcelain tiles offer timeless style and are incredibly water-resistant if installed correctly.
Visit Our Showroom!
Need help deciding if your floors can be waterproofed or if new floors are the right move? Stop by our showroom in Santa Ana. Our flooring experts will be happy to assess your current flooring, discuss your needs, and show you the amazing selection of waterproof options we have available!
