Waterproof Laminate Flooring

When it comes to selecting the perfect new floor for your home, understanding the features and benefits of all your options is key. If you’re looking for a product that offers both durability and good looks, waterproof laminate flooring is a stand-out choice. This is not your grandma’s laminate floor; the planks and tiles available today are constructed with every modern advancement, making them extra strong, easy to maintain, and hyper realistic. This guide aims to answer frequently asked questions about waterproof laminate flooring and help you make the best decision for your project! So dive in and discover how next-generation laminate can easily transform your space with both function and flair.

Is Laminate Flooring Waterproof?

The old laminate flooring of yesteryear was known for its relative durability but not for being waterproof. However, advancements in flooring technology have led to the development of waterproof laminate options, featuring special water-resistant coatings and tightly locked layers that prevent water penetration, making them suitable for areas prone to moisture.

All CALI Laminate collections are NALFA certified, meaning they’re sanctioned as reliable products that offer practical features including a waterproof construction.

What is the Best Waterproof Laminate Flooring?

The best waterproof laminate flooring combines advanced water-resistant technology, durability, and stylish designs. Look for options that offer a comprehensive warranty, a robust locking system, and a wide variety of textures and finishes to match your décor. CALI Laminate collections are designed with all these features (and more!), ensuring top performance and stunning good looks.

Is Waterproof Laminate Flooring a Good Choice for Bathrooms?

Yes! Water resistant laminate flooring is an excellent choice for bathrooms. Its protective properties prevent damage from moisture and spills, meaning you can enjoy bathtime without stressing about damage to your floors. This also means clean-ups and regular maintenance are easy, and your floors will stand the test of time. By opting for a premium laminate product, you can enjoy the look of natural wood or stone without the worry of water damage.

How Effective is Waterproof Laminate Flooring in Kitchens?

Waterproof laminate flooring is a great choice in kitchens because it’s made to be durable (think falling pots and cans), easy-to-clean (an absolute must in active kitchens), and can withstand spills, stains, and heavy foot traffic. Its waterproof construction makes it an ideal option for areas where messes are frequent, protecting your floor from moisture damage and maintaining its appearance over time. Plus, modern laminate flooring has come a long way in the looks department. Products like CALI’s Mavericks and Pacifica collections feature planks that look and feel just like hardwood, with a natural matte surface to avoid any plasticky appearance. The Shorebreak collection offers tiles that capture the visuals and textures of marble and slate – perfect for the current stone trend seen in today’s leading interior designs.

What Styles Can Waterproof Laminate Flooring Mimic?

Modern waterproof laminate planks can be made to accurately capture natural materials like hardwood and stone. You’d be amazed by how realistic the visuals are and how the surfacing of these floors actually feels like the real thing. This is where ordering flooring samples is especially helpful so you can see and touch the product in real life.

• Hardwood-Look Waterproof Laminate Planks
  From classic oak grains to more rustic textures, achieve the natural beauty and warmth of hardwood without the upkeep. Check out CALI’s Mavericks and Pacifica collections for these looks.
• Stone-Look Waterproof Laminate Tiles
  Emulate the elegance of marble, slate, or travertine, offering a luxurious feel with practical benefits. Explore the Shorebreak collection for stone-look laminate options.

Floor Shopping Tip: Want to see what CALI flooring would actually look like in your home? Upload pictures of your space and test out any style using our easy Floor Visualizer Tool!

Which is Best – Waterproof Laminate Flooring or Vinyl?

Choosing between waterproof laminate flooring and vinyl depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re considering high-quality laminates and vinyls, then the decision really comes down to the look you’re going for because both products will be waterproof, highly durable, and easy to install and clean. Modern laminate flooring offers the look and feel of real wood or stone with improved water resistance, making it ideal for spaces that demand style and durability. Luxury vinyl flooring, on the other hand, provides superior waterproofing, making it suitable for high-moisture areas. Both options offer distinct advantages, and the best choice ultimately depends on the desired look, feel, and use of the space.

Floor Shopping Tip: Not sure how much flooring you need for your project? Plan out how much to order with our handy Square Footage Calculator.

Is Waterproof Laminate Really Waterproof?

You bet! Waterproof laminate flooring is designed to keep spills and moisture on the surface, waiting patiently for you to wipe them up. Thanks to tightly sealed layers and a protective coating, these floors fend off water like a champ. However, it's key to remember that while they're superhero-level at handling surface spills, standing water or floods on any indoor surface should still be cleaned up promptly. Regular maintenance will also help keep your floors looking sharp and dry.

Can Waterproof Laminate Flooring for Bathrooms be Waterproof?

Absolutely – it's like it was made for bathrooms. Waterproof laminate flooring laughs in the face of splashes and spills, making it a solid contender for bathroom floors. Its water-resistant construction means you can get the stylish look of wood or stone without panicking every time a splash hits the floor. Just remember, while it's tough against moisture, letting water sit for too long is not a great idea. Wipe it up to keep your floor pristine and happy.

Should You Get a Waterproof Laminate Flooring with an Attached Underlayment?

It’s almost always a win to opt for a floor that comes with an attached pad. In some cases, like when you’re doing a nail-down hardwood installation, an attached pad isn’t an option. However, when it comes to luxury vinyl and waterproof laminate, go for the extra padding! This built-in feature helps to make the flooring more comfortable underfoot and can even help to keep rooms a little quieter. Note that in most cases, you’ll still want to incorporate an additional separate underlayment in your installation to help protect your subfloor from moisture.

All CALI Laminate flooring collections come with an attached XPS pad which is both recyclable and made with recycled materials. This helps to keep your new floor comfy, cushioned, and extra eco-friendly!

What is the Best Wood-Look Waterproof Laminate Flooring?

Choosing the best wood-look waterproof laminate flooring is all about finding the right fit for your style and needs at home. Depending on your interior design preferences, you may opt for a wood-look floor in a lighter shade with smoother grains to capture more of an airy, driftwood feel, or you could go for something with richer color and a rustic texture to add more character. Here’s what to look for in picking the best wood look laminate for your home:

• Realistic Visuals
  A high-quality product will have wood grain details that still look authentic even close up. This is where it’s helpful to look at a variety of photos of the product or (even better) order some samples shipped to you. CALI provides samples for free!
• Authentic Surfacing
  When it comes to picking a wood-look laminate, the last thing you want is for the floor to look fake or plasticky. Make sure planks have a matte surface that is less shiny to better replicate the look of real wood.
• Durability & Easy Care
  Looks definitely matter, but you still want a floor that will hold up to everything you’ve got going on in your home, including kids, pets, and company. Make sure your product is highly scratch resistant and easy to clean so it can stand up to all those paws and claws. Here’s more about the Best Flooring for Pets.
• Waterproof Wonder
  This may seem obvious when shopping for waterproof laminate flooring specifically, but double check that your floor is actually waterproof and not just water resistant to give yourself that extra peace of mind.