Blog > Myth or Magic? The Truth About Waterproof Laminate

Myth or Magic? The Truth About Waterproof Laminate

Tuesday, January 07, 2025

Myth or Magic? The Truth About Waterproof Laminate

At Nolt’s Floor Covering, we’ve spent decades helping Central Pennsylvania homeowners choose flooring that fits their lifestyle and budget. One of the biggest buzzwords we’ve been hearing lately is “waterproof laminate.” Customers come in excited about the idea of a beautiful, affordable floor that can stand up to spills, splashes, and everyday chaos. But is it really as magical as it sounds? In this guide, we’ll uncover the truth about waterproof laminate flooring and help you decide if it’s the right fit for your home.

What is Waterproof Laminate Flooring?

If you’re familiar with traditional laminate, you might wonder what makes the waterproof version different. Let’s break it down:

How It’s Made

Waterproof laminate flooring is engineered with a dense core made of materials designed to resist water penetration. This core is typically high-density fiberboard (HDF) treated with water-repellent properties. On top of that, the surface layer is sealed with a protective coating, and the seams are tightly locked to prevent moisture from seeping through.

Why It’s Popular

For suburban homeowners—especially families with kids, pets, or active lifestyles—the appeal is clear. Waterproof laminate flooring offers the look of hardwood or tile without the price tag or high maintenance. Plus, it handles life’s little accidents, like spilled juice or muddy boots, with ease.

At our showrooms in Ephrata and Myerstown PA, customers often rave about how waterproof laminate flooring gives them peace of mind without sacrificing style. One family from Ephrata told us they finally said yes to laminate after their dog turned their last carpet into a muddy obstacle course!

Is Waterproof Laminate Truly “Waterproof”?

Here’s where we separate fact from fiction. The term “waterproof laminate” can be a little misleading, so let’s get clear on what it really means.

What “Waterproof” Really Means

Waterproof laminate flooring is designed to resist everyday spills and moisture, such as a glass of water tipped over or a puddle of melted snow from boots. If you clean up these messes promptly, your flooring will stay in great shape.

What It Can’t Handle

However, if water is left standing for an extended period, even waterproof laminate can have issues. Prolonged exposure to water can cause the edges to swell or the core to weaken. That’s why it’s important to treat waterproof laminate flooring as a water-resistant superhero rather than a magic bullet for floods.

One of our customers in Hershey learned this the hard way when a dishwasher leak went unnoticed over a weekend. While the floor held up better than traditional laminate would have, it still needed some repair work.

The Pros and Cons of Waterproof Laminate

Like any flooring, waterproof laminate flooring has its strengths and limitations. Let’s take a closer look.

Pros

• Durability: It’s scratch-resistant and holds up well under foot traffic.
• Affordability: A budget-friendly alternative to hardwood or tile.
• Style Options: Available in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes, from rustic oak to sleek gray.
• Ease of Maintenance: Simple to clean, making it perfect for busy households.
• Family and Pet-Friendly: Handles spills and messes better than most flooring types.

Cons

• Not Flood-Proof: Standing water for long periods can still cause damage.
• Subfloor Sensitivity: Requires a flat, dry subfloor for proper installation.
• Installation Complexity: DIYers may find it tricky to install due to the precision needed for water-tight seams.

Where Does Waterproof Laminate Shine?

Waterproof laminate flooring is a fantastic choice for many areas in your home.

High-Traffic Areas

Think hallways, living rooms, and entryways. These are places where spills and dirt are common, and waterproof laminate holds up beautifully.

Kitchens and Dining Rooms

A splash of pasta sauce or a spilled glass of milk? No problem. Many of our customers love how waterproof laminate flooring performs in these spaces.

Bathrooms and Laundry Rooms

While it’s not as water-resistant as tile, waterproof laminate can handle the occasional bathroom splash or laundry mishap. Just avoid installing it in spaces prone to heavy moisture, like walk-in showers.

Choosing the Right Waterproof Laminate for Your Home

With so many options on the market, picking the right waterproof laminate flooring can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in!

Consider Your Needs

Start by thinking about how you’ll use the space. Is it a high-traffic area? Do you have kids or pets? For example, one of our customers in Lancaster chose a textured laminate for their mudroom to prevent slipping after their kids came in from playing outside.

Top Brands We Recommend

At Nolt’s Floor Covering, we carry only the best waterproof laminate flooring brands, like Quick Step and Mohawk RevWood. These brands combine stunning designs with proven performance, so you get a floor that looks great and lasts.

Caring for Your Waterproof Laminate

Once your new floor is installed, keeping it in tip-top shape is easy with a few simple tips.

Everyday Cleaning

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris.
• Use a damp mop with a laminate-safe cleaner for deeper cleaning.
• Wipe up spills immediately to prevent damage.

What to Avoid

• Don’t use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
• Avoid soaking the floor with excessive water.
• Skip steam mops, as the heat and moisture can damage the flooring.

Seasonal Tips for Central PA

Central Pennsylvania’s weather can be unpredictable. In winter, place mats at entryways to catch snow and salt. In summer, use blinds or curtains to protect your laminate from UV rays.

Final Thoughts

Waterproof laminate flooring isn’t magic, but it’s pretty close for homeowners looking for a practical, stylish flooring option. At Nolt’s Floor Covering, we’ve seen how it transforms homes—offering beauty, durability, and peace of mind for busy families.

If you’re curious about waterproof laminate flooring, we’d love to help you explore your options. Stop by our showroom in Ephrata or Myerstown, where you can see and feel samples, get expert advice, and find a floor that fits your lifestyle.

Ready to make the switch? Visit us today and let’s make your flooring dreams come true!

Family-Owned. Local Expertise. Flooring You Can Trust.

Happy flooring – Nolt’s Floor Covering

Making your flooring dreams come true!