Is Vinyl Flooring Waterproof?

If you’re shopping for new floors and wondering “is vinyl flooring waterproof”, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most asked questions we hear at Flooring Liquidators. Homeowners want beautiful floors that can handle the realities of daily life: spills, splashes, humidity, and everything in between.

In this blog, we’ll explain how waterproof vinyl really is, the difference between “waterproof” and “water-resistant,” and how our vinyl click and glue-down/loose lay vinyl products hold up when moisture strikes.

What Does “Waterproof” Really Mean in Flooring?

Before we break down specific vinyl types, it’s important to understand the difference between waterproof and water-resistant.

• Water-Resistant Flooring: Can handle light moisture and small spills but may become damaged if exposed to water for extended periods. 
• Waterproof Flooring: Built to prevent water from soaking through—even with standing water or prolonged exposure. Ideal for high-moisture rooms like kitchens and bathrooms.

So, is vinyl flooring waterproof? The answer is: Yes—depending on the type of vinyl and how it’s installed.

Waterproof Levels of Our Vinyl Flooring Options

At Flooring Liquidators, we focus on two main vinyl categories: vinyl click flooring and glue-down/loose lay vinyl. Let’s explore how each handles water:

1. Vinyl Click Flooring

Vinyl click flooring is a popular floating floor system that clicks together like puzzle pieces. The tight interlocking mechanism helps prevent water from seeping through seams, and when properly installed with underlayment and edge sealing, it can perform exceptionally well in damp environments.

• Waterproof Level: High 
• Why It Works: The locking system helps keep moisture on the surface, giving you time to clean up spills without damage. 
• Best Use Cases: Bathrooms, kitchens, basements, laundry rooms, and other moisture-prone areas.

2. Glue-Down & Loose Lay Vinyl Flooring

Glue-down vinyl is installed with adhesive, creating a secure bond with the subfloor. Loose lay vinyl, on the other hand, uses friction and weight to stay in place without glue or nails. Both are designed for durability and offer excellent water resistance—especially in large, continuous areas where seams are minimized.

• Waterproof Level: Moderate to High (depends on installation) 
• Why It Works: These floors are dense, durable, and built to resist moisture, especially when installed correctly. 
• Best Use Cases: Commercial spaces, high-traffic residential areas, kitchens, and playrooms.

Common Misconceptions About Vinyl and Water

Let’s bust a few myths we hear regularly from homeowners:

• “All vinyl is automatically waterproof.”
  Not quite. Only certain types—like click-lock and properly installed glue-down—offer reliable protection against water. 
• “Waterproof vinyl means no maintenance.”
  Even waterproof vinyl requires fast clean-up after spills, and edge sealing is key in high-moisture areas. 
• “Vinyl can replace tile in wet zones.”
  Vinyl flooring is great around sinks, tubs, or laundry machines—but it’s not designed to replace tile inside showers or areas with standing water exposure.

Real-World Scenarios: Where Waterproof Vinyl Shines

Busy Households: Got kids or pets? Vinyl click flooring is a top pick. It’s easy to clean, holds up to spills, and won’t warp if your dog tips over the water bowl.

Basements & Laundry Rooms: Areas prone to dampness benefit from glue-down vinyl or floating vinyl planks, offering durability without sacrificing style.

Open-Concept Homes: With consistent vinyl throughout your kitchen, dining area, and living room, you’ll get a seamless, moisture-tolerant look without harsh transitions.

Why Choose Flooring Liquidators for Waterproof Vinyl?

We don’t just stock vinyl flooring—we help you choose the right type for your lifestyle. With showrooms across the GTA and a wide selection of premium vinyl products, we’re here to make the buying process easy and the results long-lasting.

You’ll get expert guidance on:

• Product selection (click vs glue-down vs loose lay) 
• Best installation methods 
• Tips to extend water resistance and lifespan

So, Is Vinyl Flooring Waterproof?

Yes—with the right product and installation, vinyl flooring can be a waterproof solution for your home. Vinyl click flooring offers excellent moisture protection, and glue-down or loose lay vinyl can also deliver impressive results in the right settings.

Still have questions or want to see vinyl flooring in person? Visit one of our Flooring Liquidators showrooms or book a consultation online to get started. We’ll help you find the perfect floor that looks amazing—and stands up to water, wear, and everyday life.