What’s the Best Type of Waterproof Flooring?

No one likes to get their feet wet. Unless they’re swimming. Even then, it’s only if you’re swimming because you want to be swimming. If you’re swimming in a flooded basement or floating through an overflowing hallway… not so much.

Excess moisture in your home is something all homeowners work to avoid. They use humidifiers, pay attention to weather reports, and keep on top of clearing leaves from their gutters. That said: life doesn’t always agree with your plans. Whether it’s due to floods, a plumbing accident, or a wet dog, you need to be sure your floors can withstand water when it comes in excess. That begs the question...

What Is the Best Type of Waterproof Flooring?

Flooring Option #1: Porcelain and Ceramic Tile

Porcelain and ceramic tile are similar in many ways. They’re both made from clay mixtures that are fired at high temperatures. This firing turns them solid and non-porous. If you don't already know, non-porous means that a material is unable to absorb gas or liquids. AKA waterproof. Whether it’s porcelain or ceramic tile, these materials are rock-solid and built to withstand constant moisture. Regardless of whether your tub overflows or your basement floods, the tile will survive. 

It’s important to note that moisture can get through tile flooring if the grout holding them together becomes dry and cracked. This is a fault of the grout, not the flooring, and can be avoided by following one of the many helpful online guides devoted to grout repair.

Flooring Option #2: Sheet Vinyl

Sheet vinyl has been a staple of waterproof flooring since the late 1950s. It works so well because it's laid down in large, single sheets that contain very few seams. 

Waterproof isn’t it’s only benefit, too. It's made from a series of layers that work together to serve multiple purposes. Foam gel that is comfortable and insulating. Urethane that provides long-lasting durability. There's also PVC that offers strength and fiberglass for stability. 

No seams means that there are fewer chances for moisture to leak through to the subfloor. Everything else means that it’ll last long enough to keep your subflooring safe for years to come.

Flooring Option #3: Concrete

Concrete is an excellent waterproof flooring option. It’s poured down, which leaves no seams at all. There are no cracks for moisture to leak into, causing mold or other potential problems. While traditionally not seen as a residential flooring option, modern concrete has a certain timeless industrial quality that can work with any variety of home decor. These days it can even be stained and textured to create and complement beautiful designs. 

There You Have It, the Best Waterproof Flooring Options

What’s the best type of waterproof floor? All of the above options! After all, who doesn’t love having choices when it comes to protecting their home and its floors?

When it comes to waterproof flooring, most people are looking for function over form. Just because your floors are safe from flooding and spills doesn’t mean they can’t also be stylish. That’s where waterproof rugs come in! Want to bring more style to your waterproof floors? Shop our expansive collection of waterproof outdoor rugs. They’ll give you the style you want with the protection and peace of mind you need.