One of the greatest threats to hardwood floors is moisture and liquids. Liquid that penetrates through the wood grain will destroy the wood from the inside out. And nothing is worse than installing a beautiful floor in your home only to have it fall into ruins.
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Fading, stains, buckling, and warping can turn your property investment into an irreparable and expensive mess. Excessive moisture can also cause mold to grow and flourish in your home, creating a hazard to your health.
Waterproof hardwood keeps the water out, so your floors stay in place, which means you won’t be on high alert all the time about protecting your floors from spills.
Waterproof hardwood has a real hardwood veneer that’s permanently attached to core made of 100% waterproof lamina.
It provides the same benefits of authentic hardwood, such as unique beauty, warmth, and unsurpassed comfort and feel.
But compared to solid or other types of engineered hardwood, you get a waterproof, composite core beneath the wood.
Ultimately, the core design of each individual wood plank determines whether it’s waterproof or not. If the plank’s core isn’t waterproof, then there’s always the risk of an eventual water breach.
Unlike solid hardwood floors, which are protected only by a water-resistant coating applied to the surface, waterproof hardwood is engineered to stop moisture and water from the subfloor up.
The main difference between waterproof hardwood and solid hardwood (prefinished or unfinished) with a water-resistant coating is the time you gain to handle spills and leaks.
Waterproof hardwood can be exposed to liquids with virtually no time limit, so pooling water will remain on the surface without ever causing damage to your floor.
With solid hardwood, there’s no waterproof core – just solid wood. This means that liquid can penetrate deep into the grain, resulting in mold formation and ruin from within.
Because waterproof hardwood flooring has a waterproof core, it’s better at handling spills, wet feet, and standing water for extended periods of time. You can wait longer to wipe up spills without worry. Shop our selection of prefinished floors, unfinished floors, engineered flooring, and hardwood flooring options.
Waterproof hardwood has four main benefits:
They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And this is true when it comes to selecting, installing, and maintaining hardwood floors in rooms prone to splashes and spills. Waterproof protection is wonderfully convenient because it gives you confidence in your floor’s longevity.
Waterproof hardwood flooring is ready for almost anything – from cracked eggs and big bowls of dropped cereal to a leaky washer or a mishap with the aquarium. This means you won’t ever find yourself stressing out about the numerous water issues common to home and property owners.
A properly installed, quality waterproof hardwood floor increases your property value with the uniqueness and natural beauty of hardwood. Natural hardwood is unsurpassed in look and feel, and you can’t fabricate it. Manufactured vinyl and laminate material designed to look and perform like wood isn’t the same as real wood, however close it appears.
Yes, you can get a similar look to hardwood with advanced embossed imaging, but eventually the image pattern repeats across your floor. And when it comes to performance, hardwood has no equal. Real hardwood has a one-of-a-kind aesthetic only nature provides.
Have you ever dreamt about having real hardwood floors in your kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, or even your basement? Then waterproof hardwood flooring is the perfect choice. You can install it above or below grade level and put it in any room you choose.
If you’re an active family with pets, waterproof hardwood flooring is one of your best options. Waterproof hardwood is designed to bring peace of mind, including surprises from pets.
All of the best waterproof hardwood brands include enhanced wear layer protection that guards the wood against wet paws, urine, scratches, dents, and more. This wear layer is also an ideal surface for active children who love to play.
Even though waterproof hardwood flooring offers many benefits, it also has limitations. You will want to be aware of them to make an informed decision. Knowing them up front will help you decide whether it’s the right type of flooring for your needs, preference, and lifestyle.
The core is 100% waterproof, but the veneer is solid hardwood, which is held tight to the core. Wood will always begin to degrade when it’s fully submerged in water. That’s just the nature of wood. Installing waterproof wood flooring greatly mitigates the risk of water damage and prevents it from the inside. But it won’t eliminate the possibility for surface damage during certain disaster situations.
If your dishwasher seriously malfunctions, a pipe bursts, or a hurricane hits your neighborhood and floods your home, waterproof flooring offers limited protection. You will have to contact your insurance company after any unfortunate events where damage occurs beyond the floor. The difference is that your floor itself may still be salvageable, depending on how much water you’re dealing with.
Another limitation is that the top wood layer thickness of waterproof hardwood (the veneer) is thinner than solid hardwood. The veneer thickness varies from product to product, and options range up to 1.8mm (70.8 mils).
A useful way to illustrate the thickness of a mil is to know that…
1.6 – 2mm is the base recommended thickness required for screening or sanding and refinishing. A floor with a 1.6 – 2mm wear layer can be refinished 1-2 times and last anywhere from 30-40 years. Waterproof hardwood is built to last, but isn’t designed to be refinished.
Prefinished waterproof wood has an extra-protective coating of finish that isn’t easy to sand off.
The best waterproof hardwoods are pet-proof, but if you have a mastiff or other large dog whose nails aren’t consistently trimmed, your floor will be tested.
And if you have two big dogs with untrimmed nails, who love running between rooms to chase their squirrel and chipmunk friends they see outside, then you may want to test the flooring’s scratch-resistance before you commit.
Although there’s nothing quite like hardwood in your home for increasing your property value, LVP flooring has come a long way since tacky, old stick vinyl.
High image embossing gives you a surface that closely resembles hardwood. Many people have trouble telling the difference. It can be a great, cost-effective choice, especially in basements and bathrooms.
Knots look and feel more like knots. Beveled edges also provide a more authentic appearance, leaving you with a surface that looks and feels much more like actual wood than options available in the past. The main benefit of vinyl is that it’s extremely tough and many products are waterproof.
Are you interested in learning more about 100% waterproof hardwood flooring? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
However, when it comes to elegance, effect, and value, nothing beats hardwood.
Luxury vinyl is designed to be impervious to water, so they’re more resilient than waterproof hardwood. Read our response to the question: Why and how to choose waterproof flooring?
Waterproof hardwood flooring offers many benefits and has a few limitations. With this flooring option, you can bring comfort, warmth, and the natural look of hardwood to any room. You won’t worry about water issues when you have waterproof wood floors like you will with solid hardwood.
At the same time, waterproof hardwood has its limitations. A thinner layer of wood is necessary for a waterproof design, but this thinner layer reduces the number of times you can refinish your floors. But in most situations, and with proper care, you won’t ever have to.
With proper maintenance and care, the longevity of waterproof hardwood exceeds most people’s expectations. In the end, it all comes down to what works best for you, your family, and your space.
If you’re looking for the beauty of engineered hardwood with extra protection, you will be very happy with waterproof hardwood.
Still on the fence about whether our floors will fit for your home? Try our floor visualizer to see what our flooring could look like for you.
Choosing the right flooring for your home or business is a significant decision. This aspect of your design not only impacts the overall aesthetic of a space but also affects durability, maintenance, and water resistance. Two of the most popular options today are luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and waterproof wood flooring, each offering unique advantages.
Both options provide beauty, functionality, and resilience, but understanding each option's key differences and advantages can help you make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize the authentic look of real wood or the versatility and durability of vinyl, understanding these solutions will help you make an informed choice.
Woodhills® Bali Buff Wood Flooring™ Oak
Flooring plays a crucial role in defining the atmosphere and style of a space. The right choice can enhance interior design by complementing furniture, color schemes, and décor.
Our Woodhills® Collection captures the authentic beauty of natural wood while offering modern performance. Each plank features a hand-selected, brushed real wood veneer, delivering a warm and inviting look. The textures and rich grains create a classic and sophisticated ambiance, making waterproof wood an excellent option for homeowners who want genuine hardwood aesthetics without the risk of water damage.
Unlike traditional hardwood, which can warp or stain in moisture-prone areas, waterproof wood flooring is engineered to maintain its elegance even in kitchens, basements, and bathrooms. Its natural charm and added durability make it a sought-after choice for those who love real wood but need extra protection against moisture.
Luxury vinyl planks, like that in our premium Everlife® Waterproof Flooring Collection, captures the authentic beauty of natural wood with remarkable precision. Utilizing advanced imaging technology, LVP features intricate wood grain patterns, realistic knots, and subtle texture variations that mirror the look and feel of traditional hardwood.
Homeowners can choose from a wide variety of colors, finishes, and styles, whether they prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic or a rustic, weathered wood look. The ability to achieve consistent high-definition visuals across the entire surface allows for seamless integration of LVP into any home or business design.
Andover Bellamy Brooks Luxury Vinyl Planks
Durability is crucial, particularly for high-traffic areas, busy households, and pet-friendly environments. Floors should be able to withstand daily wear and tear while maintaining their appearance over time.
Waterproof wood combines the natural charm of hardwood with modern durability. Unlike solid wood, which is highly susceptible to water damage, these engineered planks feature a stone-based core that provides exceptional stability. This construction helps prevent warping, expansion, and contraction, making it suitable for areas with fluctuating humidity.
Additionally, these planks are designed with our advanced CrystaLux Ultra™ protective finish that boosts resilience against everyday wear. This specialized layer extends the product’s lifespan, ensuring it remains in top scratch-resistant condition despite daily foot traffic, spills, and other common household challenges.
Luxury vinyl planks are renowned for toughness. All vinyl planks in the Everlife® Collection feature our exclusive CrystaLux™ protection, a wear layer that guards against scratches, scuffs, and stains. This makes these planks an excellent choice for busy families and the perfect “dog-friendly” option for pet owners.
Unlike traditional wood, which requires occasional refinishing, LVP maintains its pristine look with minimal effort. A simple cleaning routine of sweeping and damp mopping keeps it looking brand new. Its resistance to moisture, spills, and scratches makes it an attractive option for homeowners who prioritize a worry-free solution.
Woodhills® Dorn Oak Wood Flooring™
Water resistance is one of the biggest concerns when selecting flooring, especially for areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements where spills and humidity are common.
Unlike traditional hardwood, waterproof wood-like flooring is engineered to withstand moisture without compromising its integrity. Woodhills® planks incorporate an advanced waterproof core that prevents issues like warping, swelling, and staining from humidity and spills. Additionally, they are enhanced with our exclusive DryLuxe™ technology, providing a superior moisture barrier that ensures complete protection.
Beyond its waterproof nature, Woodhills® also prioritizes safety with its innovative ZeroSlip™ technology. This proprietary feature delivers outstanding slip resistance, offering a dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) that exceeds industry standards by at least 50%. This added traction enhances stability underfoot, making it a secure choice for households with children, pets, and elderly family members.
MSI Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is 100% waterproof, making it an ideal choice for moisture-prone areas in both residential and commercial spaces. As part of our Everlife® Collection, it provides complete moisture protection, preventing water from seeping into the planks and ensuring long-term durability. This makes LVP particularly well-suited for spaces exposed to frequent spills, steam, and humidity, such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.
The tight, click-lock installation system and specialized backing layer also create a secure barrier against moisture, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth beneath the surface. This not only protects the longevity of the planks but also contributes to a healthier indoor environment.
Cyrus® Grayton Luxury Vinyl Planks
Ease of installation is another important factor when selecting flooring. Both waterproof wood and luxury vinyl planks are designed for quick and efficient installation, making them suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional installers alike.
MSI’s Woodhills® Collection features a patented click-lock system, which allows planks to fit securely together without requiring nails or adhesives. This makes installation faster and more straightforward compared to traditional hardwood. The planks can be installed as a floating floor over most subfloors, ensuring a tight, gap-free fit that remains stable over time.
Luxury vinyl planks also offer a simple click-lock system, allowing for a floating installation over existing floors. This means minimal preparation work, as vinyl planks can be laid directly over tile, wood, or concrete without the need for adhesives. The ease of installation makes LVP an attractive option for homeowners looking for a quick and hassle-free upgrade.
Choosing between waterproof wood and luxury vinyl planks depends on your priorities. If you want the warmth of real wood with added durability, waterproof wood is an excellent choice. For a budget-friendly, ultra-durable, moisture-proof option, luxury vinyl planks are ideal, especially for high-traffic spaces. Both offer style, resilience, and long-term performance, ensuring a beautiful and practical solution for any home or business.
For more information, please visit Wholesale Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring.