If you are considering new floor covering, you may be asking yourself the following question – ‘How does laminate respond to water? Since it is considered to be such a workhorse appliance it is necessary to understand how it fares with moisture in order to adequately determine where it would shine. So let’s review what we know about laminate and water and try to solve some frequently asked questions.
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What Happens If Laminate Gets Wet?
Laminate flooring is very tough and hard wearing but when it comes to water laminate flooring is very vulnerable. That is because when moisture finds its way into the seams or any edges, then the core which can be made up of compressed wood fibre must expand. This swelling can bow the planks and make it difficult to effect corrections for lumps or spaces on the floor.
Small amount of oil is not an issue if washed immediately but water formed by accumulation of oil is a big issue. Lodge water and any other liquid on laminate and if it persists it will cause a permanent damage. That is why performance of cleaning as soon as they occur is one of the most effective ways of protecting floors.
Can Laminate Be 100% Waterproof?
Laminate flooring is not entirely waterproof as it is made from lumber, it means that it is made from wood. Conventional laminate comprises components that are not designed to withstand water for a long time. Although there appeared older models with a low level of water resistance, recent designs provide better protection. These options can with stand occasional spill or damp mopping, so they leave the learning areas ready to face occasional mishap that may involve spilling of water or any other liquid.
However, let me tell you none of the laminate can withstand being wet for a long time. If the space is a bathroom, or laundry, where accidental splashing and humidity is likely, it may be worth doing more research into waterproof flooring.
What Flooring is 100% Waterproof?
If you desire complete water resistance then your luxury vinyl flooring and ceramic or porcelain tiles are rock solid. LVP are specialized to look like wooden flooring giving the feel of a laminate but with better resistance to water . Tiles, on the other hand, are nearly moisture proof and are fine for use in kitchens or on patios.
Even though laminate is lovely to look at and can work well in a vast number of homes, it is not suitable for locations that will come into contact with water on a regular basis. For instance in the living room, in the hallway or in the bedroom it is very often more than enough that laminate is water resistant. But if your home’s area includes spaces with high moisture levels, a waterproof might prove to be so much more convenient in the long run.
Is Laminate Actually Waterproof?
The short answer is no. While some laminates can stand contact with water better than others there are no fully water-proof laminates out there. In truth, the materials integral to laminate flooring are just incapable of effectively preventing water penetration, as a rule. The outer layer may help avoid soaking up the water but if it is left to stand then water gets through the seams.
So, if you want to have the maximum result from the flooring, use some tips: Sweep and mop floors daily, especially wipe up spills as soon as they occur, have mats placed before doors to keep out water that may be brought in from outside and never use wet mops during the exercise. This information should be useful for maintaining your laminate and keeping it in top shape for the longest possible time.
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Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Home
Laminate has a lot of plus points – it’s very fashionable, cost-effective and feels lovely underfoot. However, it is limited to water usage only. Whether your job involves flowing a space that can become wet often you should consider whether a waterproof material such as vinyl or tile is more suitable.
Welcome to UK Flooring Depot where we aim to help you with choosing custom flooring to match each area of your home. Have an affinity for a warm aesthetic of laminate flooring or require water resistant options, we have a vast assortment for every individual.
You can browse our collection right now and make your ideas about flooring a reality.
