Is Vinyl Plank Flooring Waterproof? (Find Out Now!)

Jessica Allen
by Jessica Allen

Vinyl plank flooring has been all the rage in the home improvement industry for a while now. It’s gorgeous, cost-effective, durable, and comes in a huge variety of designs. But what many people want to know about vinyl plank flooring is whether or not it is waterproof.

Some vinyl plank flooring is waterproof, while some is merely water-resistant; it depends on the specific product. For vinyl plank flooring to be waterproof, it needs a stone plastic composite, wood plastic composite, or hybrid core. Installation also plays a part, with interlocking plank flooring being waterproof and glued flooring being more water-resistant.

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What Is Vinyl Plank Flooring?

Vinyl plank flooring is a synthetic or man-made material made of multiple layers of plastic, usually PVC. Most vinyl plank flooring is composed of three layers.

Core Or Base Layer

The first layer is the core or base. It provides a solid foundation for the flooring and determines how it feels underfoot. Depending on the specific product, the core or base layer can be flexible or more rigid.

Design Or Pattern Layer

The second layer is the design or pattern layer. This layer determines the look of the flooring while adding to its feel. The pattern or design layer can imitate many different styles, like stone, tile, and natural wood.

Surface Or Wear Layer

The third and final layer is the surface or wear layer. This top layer is transparent, and it is designed to protect vinyl plank flooring from damage.

Some luxury vinyl plank flooring even has additional layers. These extra layers are great for soundproofing and improving the feel of the flooring.

Is Vinyl Plank Flooring Waterproof?

Whether or not vinyl plank flooring is waterproof really depends on the specific product. Some vinyl plank flooring is 100% waterproof, while some is water-resistant. Before we get into the details, let’s clear up the difference between these two terms.

What Does Water-Resistant Mean?

Water-resistant means the vinyl plank flooring will be able to withstand spills, pet accidents, and mild moisture. As long as messes are cleaned up quickly, the flooring will be totally fine. However, situations like an overflowing bathtub, plumbing leaks, and other long-standing spills can cause permanent damage.

What Does Waterproof Mean?

Waterproof flooring can take on topical spills, of course, but it also features an impenetrable material. The installation has an effect on whether or not flooring is waterproof as well. Waterproof flooring is most often installed using a locking mechanism with tight joints.

Note that waterproof claims usually only refer to topical moisture. They don’t refer to moisture that comes from underneath or around the perimeter of the flooring.

How Do I Know If My Flooring Is Water-Resistant Or Waterproof?

To determine whether your vinyl plank flooring is waterproof or merely water-resistant, look at its core materials. One hundred percent waterproof vinyl plank flooring should have an SPC, WPC, or Hybrid core.

SPC Core

SPC (Stone Plastic Composite), also called rigid core vinyl, is designed to be fully waterproof. Planks won’t swell or experience damage if exposed to moisture and humidity.

WPD Core

WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) cores are made up of a combination of plasticizers and wood pulp. They are completely waterproof and installed with a locking plank system, with no need for glue or other adhesives.

Hybrid

Hybrid flooring is an innovative vinyl plank flooring type that combines rigid core and real wood. Not only is it 100% waterproof, but it’s also resistant to fading and staining.

Pros Of Vinyl Plank Flooring

There are tons of benefits that come with this type of flooring! Check out a few of them below.

Cost-Effective And Affordable

Most vinyl plank flooring ranges in price from about $1 to $8 per plank. Compared to luxury hardwood, which can run you $15 per plank, that’s a huge bargain!

Extremely Durable

Vinyl plank flooring is so durable and long-lasting that it often comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pet-Friendly

The reality is that our furry friends have accidents sometimes–but with vinyl plank flooring, that’s not a problem! The non-porous surface of the flooring doesn’t absorb moisture or odor. You can simply wipe up the mess and not worry about lingering smells or damage to the floor.

Endless Design Choices

Vinyl plank flooring comes in so many different styles and designs. It can mimic the look of other types of flooring, such as stone, wood, or tile. It can also feature eye-catching patterns and graphic designs.

Comfortable

Vinyl plank flooring tends to be one of the more comfortable types of flooring to walk on. Plus, it can be paired with special underlayments that make it even more shock-absorbent. Overall, vinyl plank flooring is easier on your feet, knees, and back than other flooring options.

Water-Resistant/Waterproof

The vast majority of vinyl plank flooring is at least water-resistant, if not waterproof. This is a huge benefit because you don’t need to stress over small spills and occasional topical moisture.

Adds Resale Value

Homeowners are often looking for ways to increase the resale value of their homes. Well, one great way to add resale value is to install new vinyl plank flooring! Its aesthetically pleasing appearance and durability make it a highly sought-after flooring option for people shopping for a new home.

Hard To Tell Apart From Hardwood

Not only does vinyl plank flooring perfectly imitate the look of real hardwood, but it is also very thick. Vinyl plank flooring features texture and bounce that really showcases its quality. It’s almost impossible to distinguish it from hardwood flooring!

Scratch-Resistant

Going along with its durability, vinyl plank flooring is also resistant to scratches. It’s nothing like vinyl flooring of years gone by that would get gouged and scraped anytime something fell on it!

Low-Maintenance

All vinyl plank flooring really needs is regular cleaning. It doesn’t require any special maintenance or specific supplies.

Can Withstand Hot And Humid Climates

If you live in a tropical area, there’s no need to be concerned about the heat and humidity wreaking havoc on your flooring.

Easy To Install

Do you prefer to do everything yourself? Vinyl plank flooring is pretty simple, quick, and easy to install, even on your own.

Cons Of Vinyl Plank Flooring

Even with so many amazing advantages, vinyl plank flooring has its fair share of drawbacks as well.

UV Damage And Discoloration

One notable flaw of vinyl plank flooring is that it often fades when exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. If you know your flooring will be getting lots of direct sunlight, it’s wise to look for a product with UV-resistant coating.

Contains Volatile Organic Compounds

Vinyl plank flooring is known for off-gassing VOCs. VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds,come with health risks including respiratory problems and even cancer. You can choose low-VOC vinyl plank flooring options if this is a concern for you.

Not Eco-Friendly

It can be argued that vinyl plank flooring is relatively sustainable since it lasts for so long. But it’s made of plastic, is difficult to recycle, doesn’t decompose, and must be thrown out if it is damaged.

Difficult To Remove

Vinyl plank flooring can be very challenging to remove, especially if it was installed with an adhesive.

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Related Questions

Is vinyl plank flooring toxic?

Yes, vinyl plank flooring is toxic. This type of flooring is known to contain toxic chemicals that can lead to health issues.

Vinyl plank flooring has been associated with respiratory problems, neurological issues, cancer, and skin irritation. There aren’t any toxin-free types of vinyl plank flooring, just products that are less toxic than others.


Is vinyl plank flooring good for bathrooms?

Not only is vinyl plank flooring extremely durable, but it’s also waterproof. This makes it a great choice for bathrooms as well as kitchens and basements.


Is vinyl plank flooring recyclable?

Vinyl products such as vinyl plank flooring are recyclable. However, it might be challenging to find a recycler who will take vinyl products.

Jessica Allen
Jessica Allen

With a lifelong passion for writing plus strong enthusiasm for home improvement and DIY projects, joining the team at Upgraded Home was an easy choice. Jessica Allen likes to share helpful information with current and aspiring homeowners. Aside from writing, Jessica loves doing yoga, playing the piano, and dabbling in graphic design.

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