The Flooring Expert’s Guide to Wooden Flooring in Wet Areas

Wooden flooring has become increasingly popular due to its durability, affordability, and versatile design options. While wood is often seen as a more moisture-resistant alternative to hardwood flooring, it’s essential to understand the limitations and considerations when installing wood in wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Here is expert guidance on using wooden flooring in these moisture-prone spaces.

Wooden Flooring’s Moisture Resistance

Wooden flooring is generally more moisture-resistant than hardwood flooring due to its multi-layer construction and protective wear layer. The high-density fiberboard (HDF) core of wooden planks is treated to resist moisture penetration, while the wear layer helps to protect against surface spills and splashes.

However, it’s important to note that wood is not entirely waterproof. If exposed to excessive moisture or standing water for prolonged periods, wooden flooring can still experience damage such as warping, swelling, or delamination.

Bathroom Wooden Flooring Installations

When installing wooden flooring in a bathroom, it’s crucial to choose a high-quality, water-resistant product specifically designed for use in moisture-prone areas. Look for wooden flooring with a thick, durable wear layer and a moisture-resistant HDF core.

To minimize the risk of moisture damage, consider the following expert tips:

1. Ensure proper ventilation in the bathroom to reduce humidity levels and prevent moisture buildup.
2. Use a suitable underlayment that provides an additional moisture barrier between the subfloor and the wooden planks.
3. Apply a generous bead of silicone sealant around the perimeter of the room, as well as around any fixtures or penetrations, to prevent water from seeping beneath the flooring.
4. Use a bath mat or rug in front of the shower, tub, and sink to catch any splashes or drips.
5. Clean up any standing water immediately and avoid allowing moisture to sit on the wooden surface for extended periods.

Kitchen Wooden Flooring Installations

Kitchens are another area where moisture can be a concern for wooden flooring. While wood is often more resilient than hardwood in this environment, it’s still essential to take precautions to protect the flooring from excess moisture.

Consider the following expert recommendations when installing wooden flooring in a kitchen:

1. Choose a wooden product with a high wear layer thickness and a moisture-resistant core to withstand the demands of a busy kitchen environment.
2. Ensure that the subfloor is properly prepared and leveled to prevent any unevenness that could lead to water pooling or seepage.
3. A moisture-resistant underlayment provides an additional barrier against spills and splashes.
4. Apply silicone sealant around the room’s perimeter and any appliances or fixtures to prevent water from penetrating beneath the flooring.
5. Clean up any spills or splashes immediately, and avoid using excessive water when mopping or cleaning the wooden surface.

Laundry Room Wooden Flooring Installations

Laundry rooms present unique challenges for wooden flooring due to the presence of appliances that can generate moisture and the potential for leaks or spills. When installing wood in a laundry room, consider the following expert tips:

1. Select a wooden product with a high moisture-resistance rating and a durable wear layer to withstand the rigors of a laundry room environment.
2. Ensure that the subfloor is properly prepared and leveled to prevent water from pooling or seeping beneath the flooring.
3. Use a moisture-resistant underlayment and apply silicone sealant around the perimeter of the room and any appliances or fixtures.
4. Install the wooden flooring with a slightly larger expansion gap than usual to allow for any potential expansion due to moisture exposure.
5. Place drip trays beneath the washing machine and any other appliances to catch any leaks or spills.
6. Clean up any standing water immediately and maintain proper ventilation to minimize humidity levels in the room.

Alternative Flooring Options

While wooden flooring can be a suitable option for wet areas when properly installed and maintained, there are alternative flooring materials that may offer even greater moisture resistance. These include:

1. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring: LVP is entirely waterproof and highly durable, making it an ideal choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
2. Porcelain or ceramic tile: The tile is naturally moisture-resistant and can withstand exposure to water without damage. It’s a classic choice for wet areas.
3. Engineered hardwood with a moisture-resistant core: Some engineered hardwood products feature moisture-resistant plywood or HDF core, making them more suitable for wet areas than solid hardwood. Wooden uses 3 layer Birch blocks in the construction of their engineered wood flooring, which is considered to be the best when it comes to durability and dimensional stability.

Conclusion

Installing wooden flooring in wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By choosing a high-quality, moisture-resistant wooden product, properly preparing the subfloor, and following expert installation and maintenance guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of wooden flooring in these challenging environments.

Remember to prioritize moisture protection measures such as ventilation, sealing, and prompt cleanup of any spills or standing water. If you have concerns about the suitability of wooden flooring for your specific wet area, consult with a flooring expert to discuss your options and determine the best course of action for your project.