The short answer is yes, but the performance depends entirely on the construction of the material.
Calgary homes face unique moisture challenges, from tracking heavy winter slush into the mudroom to dealing with dampness on concrete basement floors. Because of these local conditions, we get asked constantly if luxury vinyl can truly handle direct exposure to water.
At a Glance
It is 100% waterproof: The synthetic core will not swell, warp, or buckle if water sits on top of it.
Best spaces: This makes it ideal for basements, kitchens, bathrooms, and mudrooms.
The subfloor catch: While the vinyl itself is waterproof, water can still seep between the seams and trap moisture underneath if spills are left sitting.
Understanding Luxury Vinyl Flooring
First, it's important to distinguish between the two main types of luxury vinyl flooring:
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Mimics the look of hardwood planks.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): Replicates the appearance of stone or ceramic tiles.
Layers of LVP and LVT
Both LVP and LVT are constructed with multiple layers:
Wear Layer: The top layer provides resistance against scratches, stains, and wear and tear.
Print Layer: This layer carries the realistic image of wood, stone, or tile.
Core Layer: This is where the waterproof qualities come into play. Some cores are made from 100% vinyl, making them completely waterproof. Others are made with wood-plastic composites (WPC) or stone-plastic composites (SPC), which offer varying degrees of water resistance.
Backing Layer: Provides stability and cushioning.
Waterproof Luxury Vinyl vs. Water-Resistant Luxury Vinyl: What's the Difference?
Here's where things get a bit technical. "Waterproof" means a material is impervious to water, no matter how long it's exposed. "Water-resistant" means the material can repel water for a certain period, but prolonged exposure can cause damage.
Generally, luxury vinyl flooring with a 100% vinyl core is considered waterproof. This means it can withstand spills, splashes, and even standing water without warping, buckling, or sustaining damage. This makes it an excellent choice for areas prone to moisture, such as:
Bathrooms: Say goodbye to worries about soggy bath mats and splashing showers!
Kitchens: Spills and splashes are inevitable in the kitchen. Waterproof LVP or LVT can handle it all.
Basements: Basements are often prone to dampness. Waterproof luxury vinyl provides peace of mind.
Laundry Rooms: Washing machines can leak, and wet clothes can drip. Waterproof flooring keeps your laundry room worry-free.
Luxury vinyl flooring with a WPC or SPC core is usually water-resistant. These cores offer excellent protection against everyday spills, but prolonged exposure to standing water might cause issues.
How to Determine if Your Luxury Vinyl is Waterproof
The best way to know for sure is to check the manufacturer's specifications. Look for terms like "waterproof," "100% vinyl core," or "moisture-proof."
At Flooring Superstores Calgary, our expert team can guide you through the different options and help you choose the perfect luxury vinyl flooring in Calgary, AB for your needs and lifestyle.
Caring for Your Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Even if you have waterproof luxury vinyl, it's still important to follow proper care and maintenance practices:
Wipe up Spills Immediately
While waterproof flooring can handle standing water, it's best to clean up spills as they happen.
Use a Damp Mop for Regular Cleaning
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the wear layer.
Place Mats at Entryways
This helps trap dirt and moisture, preventing it from being tracked onto your flooring.
Talk to Your Local Luxury Vinyl Flooring Experts
Flooring Superstores Calgary is your one-stop shop for all your flooring needs. We offer a wide selection of luxury vinyl plank and tile options to suit every style and budget. Our knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect waterproof or water-resistant flooring for your home.
We proudly serve the following communities:
Rocky Ridge
Cougar Ridge
Royal Oak
Tuscany
Nolan Hills
Sage Hill
Evanston
Valleyridge
Crestmont
Bridlewood
Shaughnessy
Chaparral
Millrise
Evergreen
Lake Bonavista
Sundance
Deerrun
McKenzie
New Brighton
Copperfield
Auburn Bay
Mahogany
Cranston
Acadia
Chestermere
Cochrane
Okotoks
Airdrie
Visit our showroom or give us a call today to learn more about our luxury vinyl flooring options and find the perfect waterproof solution for your home!
