Guide to the Best Waterproof Flooring

Moisture is the biggest enemy of traditional wood and non-waterproof floors. When spills seep into the planks, the core begins to swell and warp, which often leads to permanent damage like planks buckling. Once that happens, repair isn’t usually an option.

Waterproof flooring solves this problem by design. Each plank is built with a sealed surface and core that locks moisture out. While spills should be cleaned up immediately to ensure the best results, if you can’t wipe them up for several hours due to something like travel, the moisture won’t penetrate or cause damage. That level of protection makes waterproof flooring the smart choice for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and any space where spills and humidity are part of everyday life.

Waterproof flooring is designed to withstand some of the toughest conditions, making it perfect for high-traffic spaces and households with kids or pets. The best waterproof flooring has benefits like:

• Complete protection from spills, splashes, and humidity

• Long-lasting durability in high-traffic areas

• Low maintenance with quick, easy cleanup

• Endless style options in wood, stone, and tile looks

When it comes to choosing the best waterproof flooring, the material matters. Each type offers its own balance of beauty, durability, and water resistance. Here are the top waterproof flooring categories you’ll find at Floor & Decor:

If you love the character of real wood but need water protection, engineered hardwood may be a great choice. Constructed with layered planks and sealed for enhanced moisture resistance, it brings authentic hardwood beauty to areas you never thought possible, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Our AquaGuard® Engineered Hardwood delivers up to 24 hours of waterproof protection and a UV-cured quartz-reinforced coating for lasting strength.

Bamboo flooring is an eco-friendly, durable, and stylish option. Today’s waterproof bamboo products combine natural strength with advanced protection, making them a reliable option for active homes. AquaGuard® Bamboo is three times harder than American Red Oak and offers up to 30 hours of waterproof protection. It’s available in a range of finishes from wire-brushed to hand-scraped.

Luxury vinyl plank is one of the most versatile flooring options on the market. It’s 100% waterproof, can withstand wear and tear, and is available in many wood and stone looks. Our DuraLux® & DuraLux® Performance Waterproof Luxury Vinyl come with a rigid stone-based core that resists dents and scratches, with most styles including built-in foam backing for comfort and easy installation. Our NuCore® options (NuCore®, NuCore® Whispercore, and NuCore Performance®) all have the same strong core and feature a cork pad.

Stone plastic composite (SPC) and wood plastic composite (WPC) floors combine rigid waterproof cores with stability and style. NuCore® Waterproof Flooring is a customer favorite because it mimics the look of wood or tile while offering full waterproof performance and no acclimation time. Install it anywhere in your home for lasting beauty and protection.

No matter which material you choose, you’ll enjoy stylish design, reliable protection, and flooring that stands up to the demands of everyday life.