All you need to know about waterproof floors

When it comes to choosing a floor covering, many criteria come into play: style, comfort, durability... and increasingly, water resistance. Waterproof floors are gaining in popularity, and for good reason. But what exactly is a waterproof floor? Is it really waterproof? And in what situations is it best to opt for this type of product? In this article, we take stock of the situation, to help you make an informed choice, without falling into the trap of vague promises.

What is a waterproof floor?

A waterproof floor is one that resists water well, but never absorbs it.

There are several types of waterproof flooring:

• - Vinyl (often called SPC or luxury vinyl): very popular, it's stable, durable, and designed to be installed even in damp areas.
• - Ceramic and porcelain: always a safe bet for very damp areas (do not include grout, only the product itself).

Does “water-resistant” mean “waterproof”?

We often hear the terms water-repellent, waterproof and water-resistant, but they don't mean the same thing. A water-resistant floor is designed to resist water temporarily. It doesn't let moisture penetrate quickly, giving you time to clean up in the event of a splash or minor damage.

A water-repellent (impermeable) floor, on the other hand, is designed to block water completely, even in the event of prolonged exposure. It can be submerged without water penetrating or damaging the material. This makes it a safer choice for basements, bathrooms or leak-prone areas.

What you need to know about waterproof laminate

But beware: waterproof does not mean invincible. Some floors, such as laminate, may have a surface treated to repel water, but their internal structure - often composed of wood fibers - remains sensitive to moisture. If water seeps under the floor or between the joints, the core of the material can swell, warp and lose its strength. So it's important to understand the full composition of the product, not just what the top layer promises.

That said, several manufacturers have developed advanced technologies to make their laminates more resistant, by adding water-repellent treatments and tightening assembly systems. This is a clear improvement for everyday use. However, even the best-performing models are still made from wood, so prolonged exposure or severe water damage remains a risk. That's why it's essential to understand the complete structure of the product, not just what the surface promises. All in all, water-repellent laminate is an excellent choice in many contexts, but it does require a certain level of care.

This is an important point to bear in mind when comparing products. You should be aware, however, that there are now floors where even the product's joints and underlayments are designed to be totally waterproof. However, in the event of major water damage, you'll still need to remove the boards to dry them out. The boards can then be reinstalled.

The importance of acting quickly

Be aware that water damage is like a race against time. It's not just the nature of the floor that counts, but also the context, duration of exposure and quantity of water involved. A small glass of water spilled in the kitchen doesn't have the same impact as a pipe that leaks all night long. Even waterproof flooring has its limits: the longer water remains in contact with the material, the greater the risk of damage. Hence the importance of acting quickly to prevent water from seeping under the floor or causing swelling and mold.

And don't fall into the trap of magical thinking: just because your floor covering is 100% waterproof doesn't necessarily mean you'll be able to recover it after damage. If the water comes from a sewer backup or sewage, odors can seep into the materials. Even if the floor itself is intact, you may not want to reinstall it for reasons of hygiene or persistent odor. This kind of detail doesn't affect the watertightness of the product, but it's still part of the reality on the ground.

Where to install this type of floor?

Waterproof floors are ideal for areas where water or humidity can be part of everyday life:

• - Kitchen;
• - Entrance;
• - Bathroom;
• - Laundry room;
• - Basement.

But they're also increasingly used throughout the home, because they're beautiful, easy to maintain and long-lasting. Many families are opting for uniform flooring throughout, especially with the new models that imitate wood or stone so well.

Is it just for houses?

Not at all! These floors are ideal for:

• - rental housing;
• - commercial spaces;
• - condos;
• - areas with heavy traffic or accident hazards.

They're easy to maintain, sturdy, and help avoid many worries. For building owners or managers, they're an excellent choice.

What about water damage?

If you have a broken dishwasher or water seepage in the basement, a waterproof floor gives you time to react. It won't warp immediately like hardwood.

However, if water remains too long or seeps under the floor, even a waterproof floor can be damaged. So it's important to mop up quickly and ventilate well. Don't forget that even a water-repellent product will eventually be affected - especially in the joint system or underlayment.

Are all waterproof floors the same?

No. There are big differences between products. Some are highly resistant and can tolerate water for several days, while others last only a few hours. Some are also stronger, easier to install, or better protected against scratches.The word “water-repellent” is now used for all purposes in the flooring industry. It can give the impression of total safety, but beware: the term is often overused, or used strategically for marketing purposes. A product described as water-repellent is not necessarily waterproof or able to withstand major water damage. Some manufacturers may play on words to make their flooring appear more effective than it really is. For example, the term may simply mean that the floor surface is temporarily resistant to splashing, without protecting the structure beneath. That's why it's essential to ask the right questions and understand what each product actually offers in terms of moisture performance, since not all products that say “water repellent” are created equal.

Is it complicated to install?

No more than a standard laminate floor! In fact, many models install easily with a click system. However, in some cases (such as basements), you'll need to add a special membrane to block any moisture coming from the floor.

A good installer will know what to do to ensure a beautiful finish and optimum protection.

Do I have to sacrifice looks?

Absolutely not! Modern waterproof floors look great. They imitate wood, stone and concrete perfectly, with very realistic textures and colors. So you can have the style you love, without worrying about water or moisture.

Is it more expensive?

Often, yes - a little. But it's a smart investment, especially if you have children, pets or an active lifestyle. It saves you a lot of hassle and can last longer than some cheap floors.

And in a rental or commercial property, it can even save you money in the long run by reducing repairs.

Waterproof flooring is an excellent option if you're looking for a beautiful, practical and more water-resistant floor covering. But not all products are created equal, and it's important to understand the differences between water-resistant and waterproof, as well as the actual composition of the product.

If you have any questions, talk to one of our specialist advisers. If you have any questions, talk to one of our specialist advisors, who can guide you to the right product for your needs, budget and reality.