A Guide To Waterproof Flooring: 4 Options For Homes In Flood-Prone Areas

Living in Gainesville means daily sunshine, idyllic year-round temperatures, gorgeous natural scenery, and — unfortunately — enduring Florida’s turbulent hurricane season. During the stormy months, heavy rainfall can cause water levels to rise drastically, posing a serious risk of damage to homes in flood-prone areas. For homeowners who live in areas at risk of flooding, investing in waterproof flooring can save them thousands of dollars and provide peace of mind.

Straight Edge Tile & Flooring is your trusted source for flooring installation and remodeling in Gainesville, FL. Below, our local flooring company outlines a few of the best flooring choices for homes in flood-prone areas, as well as a few you should avoid.

Ready to upgrade your Florida home with waterproof flooring? Contact us today to learn more about our services or request a quote!

Flooring To Avoid In Flood-Prone Areas

When it comes to resisting water damage, not all flooring materials are created equal. In flood-prone areas, particular floors will be nothing more than a liability. Some flooring materials that homeowners who live in flood-prone areas should make an effort to avoid include the following.

• Carpet: Traps water and can develop mold, mildew, and odors within days.
• Hardwood: Absorbs moisture quickly, causing swelling, warping, and other damage.
• Laminate: Standard laminate planks deteriorate when exposed to moisture.

Don’t risk installing any of the above if you live in a flood-prone area. Our flooring contractors can install flooring built to resist water damage.

Top Waterproof Flooring Choices

Luxury Vinyl Plank 

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is one of the most popular choices for homes in flood-prone areas. LVP is 100% waterproof and can mimic the look of real hardwood, tile, and stone, providing a stylish alternative to traditional flooring materials and total moisture resistance. What’s more, luxury vinyl plank flooring is relatively affordable and highly durable. If you’re looking for a stylish, waterproof flooring option for your living room, kitchen, or bedroom — LVP might be the perfect choice.

Porcelain & Ceramic Tile

Both porcelain and ceramic tile are classically appealing and exceptionally durable options that handle moisture better than most other flooring. These tiles are non-porous, meaning they are highly water-resistant and able to withstand prolonged exposure to moisture without suffering damage. Typically, the non-porous nature of porcelain and ceramic tiles makes them a popular option for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other rooms where moisture is common. However, for homes in flood-prone areas, tile makes for a wise choice in any room.

Waterproof Laminate

While traditional laminate is not suitable for homes in flood-prone areas, waterproof laminate flooring has made significant advancements in recent years and is often more affordable than other options. Waterproof laminate planks feature water-resistant cores and sealed edges, preventing moisture from seeping in and allowing them to withstand exposure to water. With the look of real wood, waterproof laminate delivers a stylish flooring option for flood-prone homes at an affordable price.

Concrete Flooring

Finally, if you’re looking for a nearly indestructible flooring option, sealed concrete is incredibly durable and naturally waterproof. Typically, concrete flooring is chosen for basements, garages, and ground-level rooms because it’s excellent at resisting water damage, mold, and rot. For those same reasons, concrete flooring makes an exceptional choice for homes in flood-prone areas. Plus, you can customize the look of concrete flooring with stains, dyes, or epoxy coatings to give it a sleek, modern finish that complements your home’s aesthetic.

Why Choose Our Gainesville Flooring Company

Here at Straight Edge Tile & Flooring, we specialize in custom flooring installation, refinishing, and remodeling services. Our experienced installers take the time to understand your unique style and goals to ensure every detail of your new floor aligns with your vision. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service, you can count on our team to deliver expert installations and gorgeous kitchen and bathroom remodeling. Check out our photo gallery for a look at some of our most recent projects!

Get A Flooring Installation Quote!

Protect your home and avoid costly water damage with professionally installed waterproof flooring from Straight Edge Tile & Flooring. Our licensed and insured team takes pride in delivering visually stunning finished projects. Contact us today to learn more or request a flooring installation quote!