Strong, beautiful, and durable, laminate is the go-to flooring choice of many for the best interior
construction in NYC.
However, despite its popularity, there is much confusion about the characteristics of laminate floors.
One of the common queries interior designers get from homeowners is whether laminate flooring is waterproof or not.
Today’s post addresses this query with a detailed analysis of laminate flooring’s ability to withstand water damage.
So, if you plan to invest in laminate flooring for your home, dive into the below section now!
Types Of Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring in the best interior construction in NYC usually consists of multiple layers, such as top, decorative, core, and backing layers.
The top layer serves as a protective guard to keep stains and scratches away from the floor. The decorative layer, on the other hand, adds aesthetic appeal.
Your laminate floor’s structural stability and moisture resistance qualities typically come from the core and backing layers. The material’s core layer often consists of high or medium-density fiberboard.
However, the qualities and characteristics of your laminate flooring can change based on their category.
For instance, traditional laminate is not water resistant and not durable. Most construction management firms wouldn’t recommend them since they are inappropriate for damp areas.
Water-resistant laminate, on the other hand, is moderately durable and resistant to water damage. It can tolerate moisture and spill to a certain extent. Regularly exposing water-resistant laminate to water can compromise its integrity.
Waterproof laminate flooring is not entirely waterproof but is more resistant to water damage than the other options. They are also incredibly durable.
Is Laminate Flooring Waterproof?
Contrary to popular belief, laminate flooring is not inherently waterproof. The material is water-resistant to a degree but not entirely moisture-proof.
If moisture seeps into the core of the floor, it can swell up the core and damage the fiberboard.
The waterproof laminate flooring type is more water-resistant and ideal for the best interior construction in NYC. Still, it’s not waterproof.
When purchasing waterproof laminate flooring, you will likely notice the manufacturer’s warranty limitations, such as damages caused by pet urine.
Determine Your Laminate Floors’ Water-Resistant Capabilities
Your laminate floors’ capability to withstand water damage can vary based on these factors:
Quality of installation: Tightly sealing the seams and edges of the floor during installation can improve its water resistance capabilities.
Wear layer thickness: If the core layer of your floor is sufficiently thick, you can expect it to have excellent moisture resistance.
AC rating: Abrasion Class rating indicates the durability of laminate flooring. A higher AC rating means better water resistance.
Critical Factors To Keep In Mind When Installing Laminate Flooring
If you are considering laminate flooring for a luxurious interior construction in NYC, remember these critical points.
1. Managing spills
As previously mentioned, laminate flooring is water-resistant to a degree but not entirely waterproof. Hence, you must be careful and swift in managing spills.
2. Take note of high-humidity areas
Areas like basements and bathrooms have high humidity and the potential to damage your laminate flooring. The climate can lead to swelling, warping, and fungus growth. Using an exhaust fan is one way to manage humidity.
3. Water bowls and standing water
If you have pets, monitor their water bowls and spills. Consider putting a tray or mat underneath the bowls to protect the floor from exposure to moisture.
Also, make sure there’s no risk of standing water on the floor. For instance, if you face issues with leaks and plumbing, address them as soon as possible. Otherwise, the damage can be irreversible.
4. Regular maintenance
To maintain the integrity of your laminate flooring, establish a proper maintenance routine. You can vacuum and sweep it to get rid of dirt and waste. A mild laminate-specific cleaner can aid you in cleaning up spills and stains.
Final Thoughts
Although laminate flooring is not entirely waterproof, it’s still a great choice for the best interior construction in NYC. By using rugs and mats in spill-prone areas, choosing high-quality laminate, humidity control systems, and proper installation techniques, you can make your laminate flooring last for years!
Author Bio- The Author is an interior designer and writer. With almost a decade of industry experience, he specializes in affordable and functional interior design.