Which floorings are best for wet areas depends on the environment. If your home is constantly exposed to varying temperatures, laminate or engineered hardwood will hold up better than solid wood. But if standing water is a big problem in your home, you should consider other flooring options. These include vinyl plank flooring, water-resistant wood, and porcelain tiles. If standing water is not a problem, you can finish your concrete floor with a stain or paint.
5 Best Types Of Flooring For Wet Areas
Regular vacuuming and sweeping are all that’s needed to keep your waterproof floor looking its best. For removing stains, use lukewarm water with a mild detergent and use a microfiber mop and soft cloth. Here, there are some floorings that are best for wet areas.
1. Vinyl plank flooring
You can purchase vinyl plank flooring for wet areas in several different styles, including flexible glue-down and rigid-core. Both types have the same basic features, including a clear wear layer and a pattern layer. Rigid-core vinyl planks have a wood or stone core to provide the plank with a more rigid feel. Flexible vinyl planks, on the other hand, don’t have a core layer; instead, they have a vinyl backing and a filler layer. Some styles have an additional acoustic layer, such as cork or foam.
While many types of vinyl plank flooring are waterproof and water-resistant, not all of them can prevent water from seeping through. You must install the planks properly to ensure 100% water-tight seams. Otherwise, water will seep under the flooring and may end up in your home’s foundation. However, the good news is that vinyl plank flooring is a durable choice for wet areas, and you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty and durability of the flooring without having to worry about leaks.
2. Engineered hardwood
Real hardwood is the most expensive option for flooring, but it offers unparalleled durability and longevity. But it cannot combat the effects of climate exposure, and the price is prohibitive. Engineered hardwood flooring has a lower price tag but is more tolerant of moisture. The most common type of engineered hardwood is made of cork, teak, bamboo, or bamboo fibers. These are also available in a wide variety of colors and species.
The best way to clean engineered hardwood is to use a damp mop. However, avoid over-wetting the floor because you may damage the subfloor and the planks. To minimize damage, only mop the surface damp enough to remove dirt and debris. Regular sweeping is important to keep engineered hardwood floors clean. However, it’s also important to avoid steam mopping because it can warp the planks. Furthermore, steam mopping may compromise the subfloor and the construction of the floor.
3. Porcelain tiles
Choosing porcelain tile for a wet area is an excellent idea if you want to avoid a slippery floor. Porcelain tiles can be cleaned with a sponge mop, broom, or vacuum. Then use a tile-friendly commercial cleanser to remove dirt and grime. For a deeper clean, you can use a soft brush or mop to clean the porcelain. Avoid using abrasive products such as bleach and ammonia on porcelain tile. Rinse the floor thoroughly after using the tile-cleansing solution. Dry the tile with a towel or microfiber cloth.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are cousins and are less absorbent than each other. The main difference between ceramic and porcelain is that porcelain is harder and denser than ceramic, and is, therefore, less likely to stain. Both tiles are suitable for wet areas, and they have the added benefit of being very durable. Porcelain tile is a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms as it can withstand heavy traffic and is more stain-resistant than ceramic.
4. Staining and finishing concrete floors
Before you begin staining your concrete floors for wet areas, you must determine whether your floor is made of a textured or smooth finish. Both types of finishes react differently to the stain and may cause color shifts. Make sure you consult the product label to determine which type of stain is right for your floor. Before you begin, you should learn about the different types of staining and the process for applying them.
Before you begin staining a concrete floor, make sure it is free of cracks and other damage. If you have cracks, fill them with pourable concrete filler. If you have a basement, turn off the heater while staining and finishing. A hot basement can make the concrete floor uneven and cause issues with the sealer. The temperature must be at least 45 degrees to prevent this issue.
5. Linoleum
The best floors for wet areas are linoleum or vinyl. The former is more water-resistant because it is made of inorganic materials and will not warp or bend when wet. Linoleum, on the other hand, is made of organic materials and resins. It does absorb water, but it is not entirely impervious. Nevertheless, linoleum should be thoroughly dried after spills and leaks so that the moisture does not damage the material.
Linoleum flooring is an eco-friendly option because it is made from biodegradable materials, such as wood flour and cork dust. In addition to its water-repelling ability, linoleum is also highly durable. With proper care, linoleum flooring can last as long as 30 years! This type of flooring is also very affordable, making it a great choice for bathrooms and kitchens.
Conclusion
These are some types of floorings for wet areas. Another advantage of these floorings is their beauty and affordability. Their high-quality construction and low maintenance make them an excellent choice for anyone wanting a durable, beautiful floor. It’s easy to maintain, and it blends in with most decors. And since it’s easy to install, it can be installed on any surface. Unlike wood, parquet floors can be easily maintained.
