Waterproof floors for kitchens, baths & mudrooms

Vinyl plank bath

Tiled shower

What does “waterproof” actually mean on a floor?

Usually it means the planks or tiles themselves won’t swell or break down when they get wet. It doesn’t mean water can never get underneath. A leak that runs for days can still reach the subfloor through edges, seams and gaps at the walls, so fix leaks fast whatever floor you have.

What’s best for a bathroom?

Tile is the classic choice and it’s hard to beat around a shower or tub. Sheet vinyl is one solid surface with few or no seams, which suits a small bath. Vinyl plank works well too, especially if you want a wood look that matches the rest of the house.

What about the kitchen?

Vinyl plank, sheet vinyl and tile all handle spills well. Linoleum is another good option, made from natural materials like linseed oil and wood flour. It handles everyday kitchen life fine; just wipe up spills rather than letting water sit.

We have a muddy entry. Any advice?

Choose a floor that cleans easily, like tile or vinyl plank, and put a good walk-off mat on both sides of the door. Mats catch grit and water before they spread, which helps any floor.

Do I need to worry about grout?

Standard cement grout is porous, so it can stain and hold moisture. Sealing it, and resealing over the years, helps. Some grouts, like epoxy grout, are much more stain resistant and don’t need sealing. Ask about options when you choose your tile.

What about laundry rooms?

Washers and water heaters can leak, often where nobody notices right away. Tile and sheet vinyl are both solid choices, and a drain pan under the washer adds peace of mind.

Can new flooring go over my old floor?

Sometimes. It depends on the condition of the old floor, how much height you can add and whether there’s moisture underneath. We check all of that during the on-site measure.