19 Jan Waterproof Flooring vs Water Resistant Flooring – The Differences and A Comparison of Different Waterproof Floorings
When it comes to home renovation, choosing the right flooring is a crucial aspect. Besides considering whether the style complements the overall home decor, it’s important to pay attention to the material and practicality of the flooring. In recent years, waterproof wood flooring and water-resistant flooring have become increasingly popular. What exactly are the differences between these two types of flooring?
In this article, we’ll explain the distinctions between waterproof wood flooring and water-resistant flooring, compare their different materials, and help you choose the flooring that best suits your needs.
What Are the Differences Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant Flooring?
Waterproof Flooring
Waterproof flooring means that if water, such as from a spilled cup or during cleaning, comes into contact with the floor, its waterproof capabilities effectively prevent water from penetrating the flooring. Waterproof flooring is typically suitable for areas prone to direct water exposure, like kitchens or bathrooms, facilitating easy cleaning and maintenance.
Water-Resistant Flooring
Water-resistant flooring primarily resists expansion and deformation in humid environments. It’s more suitable for areas that are relatively humid but don’t come into direct contact with large amounts of water, such as living rooms or bedrooms.
The Waterproofing Principle of Waterproof Flooring
Waterproof flooring can resist moisture and water due to its surface being treated with waterproof materials and coatings. Waterproof flooring consists of multiple layers, including a finishing layer, wear layer, waterproof layer, sustainable layer, balancing layer, and backing layer. These layers effectively prevent water from seeping into the interior of the flooring, thereby protecting its quality and durability. Additionally, the edges of waterproof flooring are typically designed with a locking structure to ensure that joints don’t allow water infiltration, significantly reducing the risk of flooring deformation and damage.
Comparison of Waterproof Floorings (LVT vs SPC)
Among the various types of waterproof flooring, Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) flooring are quite common. Both of these flooring types offer excellent waterproof performance and are highly popular in the market.
LVT Flooring
LVT flooring, primarily made of plastic, consists of a UV protective coating, wear-resistant layer, print film layer, substrate layer, and pressure-resistant backing layer. This flooring has a high level of waterproof capability, capable of handling spills and humid environments, making it especially suitable for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Moreover, LVT flooring offers a wide range of design options, including realistic imitations of wood grains and stone textures. It is wear-resistant and easy to clean, making it a popular choice among flooring types.
SPC Flooring
SPC flooring is characterized by its hardness and durability. It mainly comprises a UV protective coating, wear layer, decorative layer, core layer, and padding layer. The SPC core layer, made from stone plastic composite, makes the flooring more robust and durable.
SPC flooring can also imitate designs like wood grains or stone textures. Besides its excellent waterproof properties, it is also fire-resistant, insect-resistant, mold-resistant, etc., making it highly suitable for use in humid environments.
Purchasing Waterproof Flooring from GPM Flooring
GPM offers a range of imported high-quality laminate flooring, engineered vinyl flooring, engineered wood flooring, waterproof flooring, and handcrafted wood flooring. The high-quality brands we represent include Balterio, IVC, Moduleo, LAYRED from Belgium, Scheucher from Austria, Meister, Schulte Raume from Germany, Corkart from Portugal, Foglie d’oro from Italy, etc. We provide a variety of wood flooring options that are high-quality, waterproof, and moisture-resistant, ensuring premium products and confidence in your purchase. Feel free to visit our store to make your selection or contact us to learn more.