For years, the biggest drawback to laminate was its "fear" of water. One spilled pet bowl or a leaky dishwasher could cause edges to swell and planks to ruin. However, if you’re shopping for flooring, you’ve likely seen labels boldly claiming "Waterproof."
At Frankful Flooring LLC, we believe in being "frank" with our customers. As your local experts, we want to clear up the confusion between "water-resistant" and "waterproof" so you can make the best choice for your home.
The Evolution of Laminate Flooring
Standard laminate is made of a high-density wood fiber core. Because it’s wood-based, it naturally wants to soak up liquid. But thanks to incredible engineering, modern laminate has undergone a transformation.
How it works today:
Surface Protection: High-end laminates now feature a non-porous "wear layer" that prevents water from seeping into the core from the top.
Tight Locking Systems: Brands like Mohawk use specialized "Uniclic" technology that pulls the planks so tightly together that water can’t slip between the seams.
Treated Edges: The edges of the planks are often coated with a water-repellent hydrophobic sealant to keep the core dry even if a spill sits for a while.
Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof: Know the Difference
This is where the fine print matters.
Water-resistant laminate can usually handle spills for a window of time—typically 24 to 72 hours—before damage occurs.
Waterproof laminate (like the Mohawk RevWood Premier we carry) is designed to withstand "top-down" moisture indefinitely when installed with the proper perimeter sealing.
Why Waterproof Laminate is a "Must" for Northern Nevada
In our service areas—from the snowy winters of Lake Tahoe to the muddy spring thaws in Verdi—your floors face a lot. Waterproof laminate is the perfect solution for:
Mudrooms: For those snowy boots coming in from a day at Mt. Rose.
Kitchens: Where "life happens," from dropped ice cubes to spilled pasta water.
Busy Households: If you have kids or pets in Carson City, waterproof laminate offers the beauty of wood without the "panic" every time a water bowl gets tipped over.
Shop Waterproof Laminate Flooring in Sparks, NV from Frankful Flooring LLC
So, is laminate flooring waterproof? The answer is a resounding yes—provided you choose the right product and have it installed by professionals who know the local requirements.
At Frankful Flooring LLC, we pride ourselves on being a BBB Accredited business that helps our neighbors in Sparks, Reno, and beyond find floors that are as functional as they are beautiful.
Don't let the fear of spills keep you from the hardwood aesthetic you love. Contact us today for a free estimate, and let’s find a waterproof floor that can handle everything your family (and the Nevada weather) throws at it!
Call Frankful Flooring LLC today for your free estimate and expert advice!
Visit Our Sparks, NV Showroom
Address: 100 East Glendale Avenue Sparks, NV 89431
Phone: (775) 383-6080
Waterproof Laminate Flooring Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I install waterproof laminate in a full bathroom?
Yes, but with a caveat. While the planks themselves are waterproof, you must ensure the perimeter of the room is sealed with 100% silicone caulk and a foam backer rod.
This prevents water from getting underneath the floor through the expansion gaps, which could lead to mold or subfloor damage.
Q: Is waterproof laminate better than Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)?
It depends on your needs! LVP is made of plastic, so it is inherently waterproof all the way through. However, waterproof laminate is often more scratch-resistant and provides a more realistic wood look and feel.
At Frankful Flooring LLC, we can show you both and help you decide based on your specific lifestyle.
Q: Does the "waterproof" warranty cover floods?
Generally, no. Most "waterproof" warranties cover topical spills (from the top down). They do not cover "bottom-up" flooding, such as a burst pipe under the house or a failing water heater that submerges the floor. For those situations, homeowner's insurance is your best bet!
