The Best Waterproof Flooring Materials

If you are building or updating a home, office, gym, or rec room, there are many things for you to consider. If you are working in an area that is subject to a lot of moisture, it is very important that you select a flooring option that will prevent slipping, mold, mildew, and a plethora of other problems associated with moisture. You may think that something like a vinyl plank floor is your only option, but there are many other types of flooring to choose from. Finding the best waterproof flooring may seem like an overwhelming task, so we hope to help ease the process for you, here.

Plastic Flooring

The most popular specialty flooring material for wet areas is plastic. Plastic flooring is lightweight, waterproof and easy to install and remove in most cases. In comes in manageably sized tiles that either snap together or push together like a puzzle and they are simple to remove if necessary. Some even have a raised base or perforated surface built in to allow for drainage and air flow. This type of waterproof flooring is commonly used around pools and hot tubs, on decks and patios and even in basements.

Foam Flooring

Foam tiles are another excellent waterproof flooring option. They are more economical than standard wood flooring or ceramic tile options, and they are also more suitable for moisture than wood. Foam tiles push into place like pieces of a puzzle, and they are available in numerous colors, designs, and thicknesses. They provide a cushioned, waterproof floor that is fast and easy to install. The potential uses for foam tiles are limitless, from basements and bathrooms to offices and laundry rooms. Transform the look and feel of your room in no time, while providing a safe and comfortable option that will not absorb water. Since foam tiles generally have a flat bottom, they are more likely to trap water than the plastic tiles, but there's an easy solution. There's no easier style of flooring to remove than foam puzzle tiles. Simply left them up and allow the floor to dry underneath and lay them back down again. There are also foam flooring tiles designed specifically for wet areas that are adhered to the floor that provide superior slip resistance.

Vinyl Flooring

If you want to combine beauty with durability, a vinyl plank waterproof flooring option is ideal for you. Surface water and liquid spills will not affect the flooring like it would with a traditional wood or laminate floor. So, you can enjoy the look of hardwood and durability of laminate. Greatmats features numerous attractive and low maintenance options that are made from recycled materials and are designed to kill bacteria, mold, and mildew. This flooring is available in wood grain, slate, and ceramic look finishes, and is suitable for family rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and more.

Rubber Flooring

Rubber is water resistant and provides traction when wet. It will not absorb water or other liquids, and it is extremely durable and versatile. If you are looking for flooring for a gym or basement, a rubber tile floor may be an excellent option. Rubber flooring tiles are easy to install over a concrete or wood subfloor with glue or tape and are available in a variety of colors and thicknesses. Once the rubber flooring tiles are placed, they require little maintenance, with a sweeping, vacuuming, or damp mop cleaning process, as needed. They are stain, mold, and mildew resistant – making them an ideal flooring option for a gym where sweat and moisture are often present. To be totally sure your rubber floor will be waterproof, make sure to choose a vulcanized rubber product. While non vulcanized rubber will not absorb water, it is somewhat porous and may allow some water to permeate into the floor if soaked or pressure washed.

Rubber horse stall mats are available in a variety of sizes – making them an excellent flooring option for home gyms and tight spaces where waterproof flooring is needed as most are made from vulcanized rubber. They are very durable and shock absorbent – making them ideal for exercise involving high levels of impact. They also provide a slip-resistant surface, so you don’t have to worry about sliding around when you’re dripping with sweat.

If you are considering water resistant floor mats, an Absorba carpet mat with rubber backing and border keeps moisture in the mat and away from indoor flooring such as wood or laminate. This type of mat is perfect for indoor or outdoor entrances to keep the subfloor clean, dry, and less slippery.

Cork Laminate Flooring

Although not waterproof, cork laminate flooring features water resistant technology. This flooring option is appealing to some, as it has a softer, more absorbent surface than other options, preventing sore legs, feet, joints, and back. It is also very affordable and durable. If taking care of the environment is important to you, this waterproof flooring option will appeal to you, as it is made using sustainable methods. There are several colors and designs available, and it will provide excellent thermal insulating properties in your home or office.

Greatmats has the best waterproof flooring
Greatmats has numerous waterproof flooring options available, with friendly and knowledgeable designers and experts that can help you decide which is the best for your space. Whether you’re looking to update your garage or basement floor, your kitchen, or your bathroom, Greatmats is your one-stop-shop for all of your flooring needs. Its team provides complimentary design help, and also offers an online floor plan designer tool, among many other things. Simply visit Greatmats.com, or call one of its friendly and knowledgeable agents, to get started.