Are Laminate Floors Waterproof? What Cincinnati Homeowners Should Know

If you’re shopping for new flooring and love the look of hardwood but want something more budget-friendly, laminate might already be on your list. Durable, versatile, and stylish, laminate flooring has evolved significantly since its early days. But one of the most common questions we hear at Cincy Preferred Flooring is: Are laminate floors waterproof?

The short answer: it depends.

In this article, we’ll break down what laminate flooring is made of, how it handles water, and where it makes the most sense in your home. If you're considering laminate for your next project in Cincinnati or the surrounding areas, here's what you should know before making a purchase.

What Is Laminate Flooring?

Before we dig into water resistance, let’s start with the basics. Laminate flooring is a synthetic product made of several layers:

1. Wear Layer – A clear protective coating that resists scratches and fading.
2. Design Layer – A high-resolution image that mimics wood, stone, or tile.
3. Core Layer – The main structural layer, usually made of high-density fiberboard (HDF).
4. Backing Layer – Provides added stability and moisture resistance from underneath.

The layered design gives laminate its durability and realistic appearance, often at a lower cost than hardwood or luxury vinyl.

So… Are Laminate Floors Waterproof?

Here’s the important distinction: most laminate floors are water-resistant, but not fully waterproof.

Traditional laminate flooring is made with a fiberboard core, which is highly susceptible to moisture. If water seeps into the seams and reaches the core, it can cause the material to swell, warp, or even separate. This makes standard laminate a risky choice for bathrooms, laundry rooms, or areas prone to spills.

However, recent innovations in flooring technology have led to the emergence of a new category: waterproof laminate. These products utilize specialized coatings, enhanced locking systems, and moisture-resistant core materials to withstand spills and splashes more effectively than ever before.

So when someone asks, “Are laminate floors waterproof?”—the answer depends on the type you choose. Regular laminate? Not fully waterproof. Premium waterproof laminate? Much better at handling moisture, though not quite invincible.

Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof Laminate: What’s the Difference?

Let’s break it down even further:

• Water-Resistant Laminate: These floors can handle small spills or damp mops if cleaned up quickly. The wear layer offers some protection, but water that seeps between planks can still cause damage over time. This is typical of most standard laminate floors.
• Waterproof Laminate: These are engineered to repel moisture much more effectively. They feature a sealed locking system, water-repellent surface coating, and a core material designed to resist swelling. Some brands offer waterproof warranties, particularly for surface-level spills that are cleaned up within 24 to 72 hours.

At Cincy Preferred Flooring, we carry both types and can help you choose the best option based on where the flooring will be installed and how your household uses the space.

Where Laminate Works Best

Because standard laminate doesn’t perform well with standing water, it’s best used in dry areas of the home, such as:

• Living rooms
• Bedrooms
• Hallways
• Dining areas
• Home offices

These rooms benefit from laminate’s durability, realistic wood visuals, and ease of maintenance, without much risk of prolonged moisture exposure. If you want the same look in areas like kitchens, laundry rooms, or basements, we recommend upgrading to a waterproof laminate or considering luxury vinyl plank (LVP), which is 100% waterproof and often a better fit for wet spaces.

Can Laminate Handle Pets, Kids, and Everyday Messes?

Yes—with some planning.

Laminate is a great option for families and pet owners because of its scratch-resistant surface and easy cleanup. Spills from juice, water bowls, or muddy shoes usually aren’t a problem, as long as they’re wiped up quickly. It’s not waterproof in the same way tile or vinyl is, but it can definitely withstand everyday life in a busy home.

For added peace of mind, many Cincinnati homeowners choose waterproof laminate in kitchens or playrooms, where spills and messes are more frequent. It gives you the style you want with added protection where you need it most.

What Happens If Laminate Gets Wet?

If standard laminate flooring is exposed to standing water for too long, several problems can occur:

• Swelling or Bubbling: The fiberboard core absorbs moisture and expands, causing swelling or bubbling.
• Peeling or Delamination: The decorative layer can peel away from the core.
• Seam Separation: Water weakens the locking mechanism, causing gaps.
• Mold and Mildew: Trapped moisture beneath the planks can lead to mold growth, especially in basements.

This is why cleaning up spills quickly—and not using a wet mop—is critical with traditional laminate. For homes with high humidity or moisture concerns, waterproof options offer better long-term protection.