Does waterproof mean the same as water-resistant?

No. Sometimes it can be challenging to decipher terminology because of "marketing-speak," but we think it's essential that you know the difference. This way, you'll see what you're getting.

Waterproof floors are impervious to liquid

When something's impenetrable, it is made from entirely waterproof materials and is usually (but not always) waterproof from bottom to top. This means it can be either submerged or spilled on, and it will remain undamaged. Water-resistant means that, although a product repels liquid, it's for a small amount of time.  Unless wiped quickly, it can soak through to the core, stain, and ripple.

Your waterproof flooring options

Up until recently, your only choices were tile and luxury vinyl.  Both are stylish, fully waterproof, durable, and easy to clean. The options have expanded even more to include waterproof vinyl flooring and a new waterproof laminate flooring.

Waterproof vinyl flooring is a newer, more advanced, amped-up version of luxury vinyl; it is thicker, more durable, and sometimes semi-rigid, made with wood plastic composite  (WPC) or stone plastic composite (SPC) cores. These are technologically advanced and will never peel or ripple, no matter how much water there is or for how long.  We know someone who was away for a couple of months, only to return to a dishwasher flood; he has waterproof vinyl floors, and all was fine.

Waterproof laminate flooring is just what the market has been waiting for!  Mainly associated with wood looks (although stone and tile looks are gaining popularity), this has a unique construction that contains no wood that makes it spill-proof, eliminating concerns about soaking and staining.  Now it can be installed in high moisture areas, such as the kitchen or bath, where it was once avoided due to moisture concerns.

Waterproof flooring will give you aesthetics, function, and peace of mind. To learn more and get a free quote, come into the Carpet Planet showroom in Colorado Springs, CO, especially if you live or work in or around Black Forest, Fountain, Monument, Woodland Park, Denver Pueblo, Salida, Aurora, and Fort Collins.