When it comes to home investment, particularly for kitchens and bathrooms or anyone with pets/children, understanding the water resistance in laminate is vital.
Traditional laminate is water-resistant, but not waterproof. The hardwood is resistant to minor spills if the messes are cleaned up fast, but long-term exposure can make it swell and/or warp; this could result in irreversible damage. Wood-based materials tend to absorb water over time.
What About Waterproof Laminates?
There are now waterproof laminate products on the market that feature plastic or stone composite cores. They are better at resisting long term standing water than typical laminate floors, which makes them ideal for use in high moisture areas. But they can also cost more than traditional plastic laminate.
Where Can You Use Laminate?
Basic laminate varieties are ideal for living rooms, bedrooms and rarely-used dining areas with no or little humidity. Opt for high-grade water-resistant laminate in kitchens, and clean spills up quickly. For 12mm Laminate Flooring, contact www.irwintiles.ie/wooden-flooring/laminate-flooring/laminate-12mm-water-resistant
Protection Tips
Even water-resistant laminate needs care. Place mats around sinks and at entryways, clean spills right away, avoiding the use of steam mops or excessive water when cleaning. Improve installation by adding moisture barriers over concrete subfloors.
The Bottom Line
Although you can obtain laminate flooring that is very durable – it’s even marketed as waterproof; don’t confuse this with water resistant – it is not invincible against water. The moisture level of your space needs consideration. If your environment is definitely going to get wet, then waterproof laminate or some other type of flooring like vinyl will be better suited for you.
Knowing these distinctions will save your flooring investment for years to come.
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