Is vinyl plank flooring actually waterproof?

Author: Prof. Cathy Bernhard IV  |  Last update: Monday, September 15, 2025

All vinyl plank flooring is naturally water-resistant, as vinyl is a hydrophobic material. While it does well at avoiding damage from household spills or excess moisture from a shower, not all vinyl is entirely waterproof.

Is vinyl plank flooring really waterproof?

If your home experiences flooding or standing water for an extended period of time, you will need to replace your luxury vinyl plank flooring before any major damages can set in. Thus, luxury vinyl plank flooring is waterproof, but not flood-proof.

What are the disadvantages of vinyl plank flooring?

Firstly, it can be difficult to install and may require professional help. Secondly, vinyl plank flooring is not as durable as other types of flooring such as hardwood or tile. It is also prone to scratching and denting from heavy furniture or objects being dragged across the surface.

Can water get through vinyl plank flooring?

As long as you wipe up the spill quickly, your floors will not be compromised or damaged, but water-resistant vinyl planks cannot hold up to long-standing spills like plumbing leaks, an overflowing bath, or a flooded basement from a thunderstorm.

Is vinyl plank flooring pee proof?

Vinyl is a favorite flooring option for kitchens and bathrooms and also makes great flooring for dogs that pee, as it's very resistant to liquids and easy to clean. Vinyl is also soft underfoot, making it a comfortable surface for dogs to relax or walk on.

Luxury Vinyl Plank - Is it Waterproof?

What destroys vinyl plank flooring?

Enemies of Vinyl Flooring
  • Dirt and Grit: Acting like sandpaper, dirt and grit particles can scratch the wear layer of the vinyl, especially at entryways and high-traffic areas. ...
  • Sharp Objects: Dropping sharp objects like knives or tools can puncture or gouge vinyl.

Which is better waterproof laminate or vinyl plank?

Luxury vinyl plank can handle spills and moisture, but if water manages to seep into the seams or edges, it can cause damage over time. Waterproof laminate, on the other hand, boasts superior water resistance, making it an ideal choice for areas prone to spills, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Can mold grow under vinyl plank flooring?

Mold Growth: Mold can thrive under vinyl plank flooring due to moisture. Health Risks: Exposure to mold can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and more serious health conditions. Vinyl Plank Flooring: While durable and versatile, can be a breeding ground for mold if not properly maintained.

Which of the following types of vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof?

There are two types of waterproof vinyl: wood-plastic composite vinyl planks (WPC) and stone-plastic composite vinyl planks (SPC). Initially, they might both look the same. However, they're made with different core materials, and one option might suit you better than the other.

Can vinyl plank flooring be wet mopped?

Although some vinyl is water-resistant, not all of it is waterproof. New vinyl floors handle water much better than older ones. To be safe when choosing the best cleaner for vinyl flooring, use a small amount of water. Too much water may seep through the cracks.

Does luxury vinyl plank devalue a home?

Does vinyl flooring devalue a home? It's possible. While vinyl plank floors are affordable and versatile, they might not boost your home's resale value like hardwood or tile would.

Can you put heavy furniture on vinyl plank flooring?

Since most furniture will not go under just one plank, it is perfectly safe for bulky furniture and refrigerators to go on vinyl plank flooring. Vinyl plank flooring will not be damaged or cracked by home appliances' weight due to its strong durability.

What is the life expectancy of vinyl plank flooring?

Generally speaking, vinyl sheet flooring will last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, while vinyl plank and tile flooring will last 15 to 20 years. The thickness of its wear layer vastly impacts vinyl flooring's lifespan, so pay attention to this detail when purchasing your flooring.

What flooring is 100% waterproof?

Unlike other products that claim to be waterproof — and are actually water-resistant — Aquatec Flooring® truly is 100% waterproof from our bottom EVA Rubber Padding to our topmost UV Wear Layer, and every layer in between.

Can you use a steam mop on vinyl plank flooring?

As we've learned, the answer to the question "Can you use a steam mop on vinyl plank flooring?" is no. While steam mops offer a deep clean for many surfaces, they are not be the best choice for vinyl flooring due to the potential risk of heat and moisture damage.

What is the difference between LVP and vinyl plank flooring?

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is designed to resemble wood or stone, and it usually comes in plank-shaped pieces that are clicked or glued together. Standard vinyl flooring, on the other hand, is usually sold in rolls, and it often has a printed pattern that simulates the look of wood or tile.

Can water seep through vinyl planks?

Water can seep into the seams and “washout” the adhesive. If this does happen it can be fairly easily remedied, if only a few planks are affected.

Is luxury vinyl plank 100% waterproof?

Some Luxury Plank Flooring Is Waterproof

While it does well at avoiding damage from household spills or excess moisture from a shower, not all vinyl is entirely waterproof. If you clean up spilled water in a timely fashion, then it's unlikely there will be any visible damage.

Is vinyl flooring pee proof?

Ultimately, while vinyl flooring can be resistant to pet urine, it's still important to take steps to prevent accidents and clean up any spills promptly to protect your flooring investment.

Should I put anything under my vinyl plank flooring?

To get the most out of your LVP you will want to consider what is underneath the flooring. An underlayment provides the proper support to make sure your LVP makes it the long haul.

What is the best flooring to avoid mold?

Waterproof vinyl flooring is engineered to be completely impervious to water, meaning spills and splashes stay on the surface and don?t seep through to the subfloor, where mold can thrive. This characteristic is especially valuable in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

Why has my vinyl floor bubbling up?

Description: Bubbles often occur when the vinyl flooring is not installed correctly. This can happen if the adhesive is not applied evenly or if the vinyl is not properly smoothed out during installation, trapping air pockets underneath.

What is better than luxury vinyl plank flooring?

But while a damaged luxury vinyl plank may need to be replaced, an engineered hardwood plank can be sanded and refinished several times. Ultimately, engineered hardwood floors are likely to last 25 to 50 years or more, while luxury vinyl plank flooring may need to be replaced in 20 to 30 years.

What is the best flooring for waterproof and scratch resistant?

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is one of the best waterproof and scratch-proof flooring options. It gives a natural hardwood look and offers great durability and resistance to water and scratches. Luxury Vinyl Plank is made up of multiple layers, including a tough top layer that protects against scratches and dents.

Does vinyl plank flooring scratch easy?

LVP is not only scratch-resistant but also easy to replace if a section becomes damaged. Unlike some flooring types that require complete replacement, individual planks of LVP can often be replaced without disturbing the rest of the floor.

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