Waterproof laminate flooring is laminated flooring that is resistant to moisture. While most laminated flooring is fortified against water damage, the same is not necessarily true for the spaces between its components. If those spaces are not properly sealed, the water can seep underneath the floor and damage the sub-floor structures.
Waterproof Components
Waterproof laminate flooring is made up of four layers – a decorative layer that gives the floor its texture and appearance and three layers that protect and support the structure. If the following layers are made up of quality materials, they will be able to keep the water out. Those layers include:
- Melamine Wearlayer – a clear resin-filled membrane that covers the top of the flooring. It is designed to resist moisture and other damage.
- Core – a high-density fiberboard located in the middle of the flooring. It’s primarily purpose is to absorb impact. The cores that have melamine plastic resins incorporated into its structure can also provide additional protection against moisture.
Waterproof Spaces
The best way to make sure the flooring is waterproof is to buy floating laminate flooring – the flooring that is not directly attached to the floor. Instead, the pieces are hooked together, creating a continuous piece of flooring. In some models, pieces are attached using an adhesive, while other models come with grips that can be attached without it. Either way, floating laminate flooring leaves virtually no room for the water to seep through.
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