My name is Tom Lopatosky. I’m the President of LOPCO Contracting (www.LopcoContracting.com) and I’m honored to have the opportunity to talk to you about home improvement on a monthly basis. I love answering your questions! Please send them to tom@LopcoContracting.com or call 401-270-2664. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this column!
Is Vinyl Planking REALLY Waterproof??
Perhaps one of the more interesting conversations I have with our floor install techs are those revolving around vinyl planking and its use in areas where there is a good chance that they will be exposed to a fair amount of moisture after installation.
I make no secret of the fact that in these particular areas (kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and the like), I am much more partial to traditional tile vs. the more modern vinyl planking options that are out there.
While my brain tells me that vinyl planking is a super functional option for these areas, my heart leans heavily toward tradition.
In terms of conversations that I have with our actual clients, the question often comes up that asks if vinyl planking is even waterproof.
Vinyl planking has become a popular choice for homeowners because it looks great and is easy to maintain, and though one of the biggest selling points is that it’s advertised as waterproof, the question remains, is it really?
When something is waterproof, it means that water can’t pass through it, no matter how long it’s exposed. Some materials, like plastic or rubber, are completely waterproof. Others, like wood, can soak up water and get damaged. Vinyl planks are made mostly of PVC (a type of plastic), which does not absorb water. This means that vinyl planks, themselves, are waterproof. However, that doesn’t mean your entire floor will be safe from water damage.
Most vinyl planks have a waterproof top layer that protects against spills and moisture. Water will sit on top of the planks, rather than soaking in, which makes cleaning up easy. This is why vinyl plank flooring is actually a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
However, water can still cause problems in certain situations. If water seeps between the planks, it can reach the subfloor underneath. If the subfloor is made of wood, it can swell and rot over time. Water trapped under the planks can also lead to mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health.
It’s important to understand the difference between “waterproof” and “water-resistant.” Waterproof means that water cannot damage the material, no matter how long it is exposed. Water-resistant means that the material can resist water for a while, but it may eventually let water through.
Vinyl planks themselves are waterproof, but the way they are installed can make a difference.
If there are gaps between the planks, water can seep through. Some types of vinyl planks have a locking system that creates a tight seal, making them more resistant to water. Others may require glue or be installed loosely, which could allow water to get underneath.
Even though vinyl plank flooring is waterproof, it’s still important to take steps to protect it. Here are some simple ways to keep your floors in great shape:
- Clean Up Spills Quickly – Even though the planks won’t absorb water, letting water sit for too long can cause damage to the subfloor.
- Use a Moisture Barrier – If installing vinyl planks over a wood subfloor, consider adding a moisture barrier to protect against water damage.
- Seal the Edges – Some people use silicone sealant around the edges of the room to prevent water from getting under the flooring.
- Choose High-Quality Planks – Some vinyl planks have better locking systems that keep water from seeping through the seams.
- Watch for Leaks – If you have a dishwasher, washing machine, or sink nearby, check for leaks, regularly, to avoid water damage.
Vinyl planking is indeed a great flooring option for homes because it is durable, stylish, and easy to maintain. The planks themselves are waterproof, but that doesn’t mean your entire floor is 100% safe from water damage! Water can still seep between planks or around the edges, reaching the subfloor. To keep your floors in the best condition, clean up spills quickly and take extra steps to prevent water from getting underneath.
With proper care, vinyl planking can be a fantastic, long-lasting flooring choice for moisture-prone areas in any home – even though I still prefer tile.
About Tom Lopatosky
Tom Lopatosky has run his own RI-based painting and repair business since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the “Personable, Particular Professionals” – specializes in exterior & interior painting and carpentry. Recently LOPCO Contracting was named ‘RI’s Finest Painting Contracting Company’ by ShopInRI Magazine. In 2013, Tom was named “Humanitarian of the Year” by the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) and a “40 Under 40” award winner by Providence Business News. He is a member of both the PCA (Painting Contractors Association) and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has often had weekly ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that have aired on the radio on 630 WPRO AM and on television on WPRI 12. You can catch Tom LIVE on the radio EVERY Saturday, 2pm-3pm, on 630 WPRO AM (99.7 FM) during his weekly PROTalk Home Improvement Radio Show! Tom has also written a book ‘The Care And Maintenance Of A New England Home’ (available on Amazon or through Barnes & Noble), detailing what he believes every New England Homeowner should be acutely aware of while owning a home in the region.
