Florida may be a sun lover’s paradise but for homeowners, the state is also well known for its heavy downpours during the rainy season. The constant wetness can be detrimental to homes, including the flooring. For those who reside in Florida, it is important to select waterproof flooring, or you will constantly need to be changing your flooring, and that can be a costly business.
Here are a few great options for waterproof flooring:
1. Vinyl Plank or Luxury Vinyl
Vinyl plank or luxury vinyl is fast becoming one of the most installed flooring choices in many homes in Florida. Unlike the dreary vinyl flooring of the past, the latest luxury vinyl selections are a completely different ball game. Luxury vinyl has a natural wood or stone-like look and it is very easy to maintain and clean. Luxury vinyl flooring can be installed in almost any room, but it is best for the bathroom, kitchen, and hallways.
In addition, the flooring absorbs noise, is comfortable to walk on, is pet friendly, and can tolerate a significant amount of wetness. If maintained well, luxury vinyl can easily last several decades. Best of all, it is a cost-effective waterproof flooring option in South Florida. The key is to have it installed properly without leaving any gaps for water to seep underneath. Therefore, you need an experienced installer.
2. Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is another popular waterproof flooring option. Unlike the cheap laminate flooring of yesteryear, today laminate comes with excellent aesthetics which can mimic wood, tile, or even ceramic flooring. It is a durable material with the ability to withstand significant wear and tear from regular foot traffic. And like luxury vinyl, laminate is waterproof, pet friendly, and easy to clean and maintain. Laminate is available in many colors, designs, and styles, including wood grains.
If well-maintained, it can easily last several decades. Laminate flooring is also affordable and relatively easy to install. It is best used in the hallways, bathroom, kitchen, and basement. The one downside to laminate flooring is that if there is a tear or a hole punctured in it, then repair is not always easy.
3. Regular Vinyl Tile
Regular vinyl tile remains a good option if you are looking for waterproof flooring and have a tight budget. Vinyl tiles fell out of favor several decades ago because of the cheap and outdated look but advances in technology have resulted in much better quality and aesthetic appeal of vinyl flooring today. Vinyl tiles are not only affordable but perhaps the best option for homeowners who do not want to spend a fortune on flooring.
The latest vinyl tiles can mimic ceramic, wood, or stone flooring, and most people would not be able to tell them apart. Vinyl is also easy on the feet, keeps the home cool, is easy to clean and maintain, and is pet friendly. It is also impervious to water and, if well-maintained, can last several decades. Vinyl tiles are available in many designs, colors, and styles to match the decor of your home.
4. Engineered Wood
Engineered wood is another waterproof flooring in South Florida option for homeowners. Because of the way engineered wood is made, it is not only durable but moisture and scratch-resistant as well. Engineered wood flooring can be installed in almost any room of the home, including the basement. Unlike conventional wood, it is resistant to moisture and will last more than five decades if well maintained. There are many styles and designs of engineered wood available to match a home’s decor.
Not only is engineered hardwood more affordable than regular wood flooring, but it also has the same aesthetic features. The one downside to engineered wood is that the owner has to buy a quality product from a reputable vendor. Buying poor-quality engineered wood will not last long.
5. Concrete
Concrete is a final waterproof flooring in South Florida option for homeowners. Concrete flooring is durable and quite resistant to damage. It can withstand very heavy foot traffic, including wear and tear from pets, high heels, and moving heavy furniture. Plus, concrete flooring is low maintenance and easy to clean. Concrete is available in many styles and can add value to the home because of its aesthetic features.
The one downside to concrete is that any cracks can be difficult to repair. Also, if you have children, you may want to use thick rugs to prevent injury from occurring due to the hardness of the flooring. Overall, concrete flooring is very moisture resistant and will easily last several decades with minimal maintenance.
CONCLUSION
While it is desirable to have waterproof flooring if you reside in Florida, you should also consider other factors before deciding on the type of flooring for your home. Things to consider include durability, affordability, ease of maintenance, and aesthetics.
Finally, no matter what type of waterproof flooring you select, you should have it properly installed so that there are no gaps left for water to seep through. The key is to get an experienced professional installer. Call East Coast Flooring today.