Does Waterproof Laminate Flooring Exist? Unfortunately, it does not. As long as laminate flooring contains wood, it will always be susceptible to moisture damage. Vinyl flooring looks very similar to laminate flooring but doesn't have moisture sensitivity.
Delamination: Prolonged exposure to water can cause the layers of laminate to separate, a condition known as delamination. This can compromise the integrity of the flooring.
Laminate flooring can get wet, but only the top. Laminate flooring's sides, open seams, damaged areas, and bottoms can never get wet. If you install the laminate flooring in a full bathroom, you must take extreme precautions given by laminate manufacturers.
You should always replace wet laminate flooring when the damage is a result of a sewage backup due to the risk of mold and bacteria or if you cannot start cleaning up right away after a flood, if water has been present for more than 24 hours, or if you notice the laminate floor is starting to swell or buckle.
Laminates offer better water resistance than veneers, making them more suitable for areas prone to moisture. Solid wood is more susceptible to water damage compared to water-resistant laminates, making the latter a preferred choice for certain applications.
Laminate flooring with a 15% swell rate is designed to resist moisture for a shorter duration. While it may provide waterproofing for a certain period, it's essential to understand the limitations. Typically, these floors can withstand water exposure for 24 to 48 hours.
Use Waterproof Silicone Caulk (REQUIRED)
One of the easiest and most important steps you must take to protect your laminate flooring is to use a waterproof silicone caulk upon its initial installation. Unlike your standard grout made of cement and sand, which can absorb water, silicone is flexible and impenetrable.
Mold from trapped moisture on floors can start forming in as little as 24 hours. Vinyl, tile, laminate, and other water-resistant flooring can still sustain water damage and develop mold. Call a professional water damage restoration company as soon as signs of water damage are detected.
Each type of laminate flooring offers a specific level of water resistance, but none are entirely impervious to moisture. Even waterproof laminate can fail if exposed to standing water or flooding for extended periods. Choosing the right option depends on the room's moisture levels and your daily lifestyle needs.
Laminate flooring, while cost-effective and popular, can experience problems such as buckling, warping, and fading. These issues often arise from water damage, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and inherent design limitations.
Do not wash or wet mop the floor with soap, water, oil-soap detergent or any other liquid cleaning product. This could cause swelling, warping, delamination, and joint-line separation, and void the warranty. Avoid using steel wool, abrasive cleaners, or strong ammoniated or chlorinated type cleaners.
Under laminate flooring, mold typically grows due to excess moisture or dampness, which can occur due to water leaks, high humidity, or poor floor installation.
Place a tile entirely in the bucket of water and remove it immediately. By seeing water droplets repelled from the surface of the planks, you can realize that it is waterproof. Now put the same plank in water for 24 hours and let it dry.
If water gets under laminate flooring, it can cause the planks to swell, warp, or lift. In severe cases, the flooring may need to be replaced to prevent further damage.
Scrub the affected area with a mixture of hot water and soap. Use an appropriate mold and mildew cleaner to disinfect the area. You can also use a diluted bleach solution (mix 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water). Spray this cleaning solution directly onto the moldy floor and allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
If sections of your floor feel bouncy or soft underfoot, it could indicate water damage beneath the surface. This is often caused by prolonged exposure to water that weakens the subfloor, which can lead to costly structural repairs if left untreated.
Being comprised of wood fiberboard, laminate flooring is susceptible to permanent damage if it comes into contact with water for a considerable amount of time. When the proper precautions are taken, however, it can deliver long last performance.
Vinegar is effective for most stains and general cleaning of laminate flooring. Even tricky stains like furniture polish, hard water marks, or coffee can generally be removed by applying vinegar.
Take immediate action to identify and rectify the source of the moisture. Thoroughly dry the affected area, then consider consulting a professional if the damage is extensive. Homeowners can effectively safeguard their LVP flooring against water damage by implementing these preventive measures and maintenance tips.
Silicone sealants are a sturdy but flexible option that will not crack as the floor naturally flexes and can hold up to a lot of wear. Silicone is also waterproof and chemical resistant, making it a great choice for both home and commercial uses.
Dry the Subfloor:
Use fans, dehumidifiers, or even a wet-dry vacuum to dry water under laminate flooring and the subfloor. Ensure proper ventilation to accelerate the drying process. You can also use towels to absorb excess moisture.