Bathrooms and laundries present the most challenging environment for any flooring material. Daily exposure to water, high humidity, temperature fluctuations from hot showers, and the potential for flooding from burst hoses or overflowing fixtures demand flooring specifically designed to handle these conditions. Modern waterproof vinyl flooring meets these challenges exceptionally well, providing a beautiful, durable surface that withstands years of wet area use.
However, not all vinyl flooring is suitable for wet areas, and even waterproof products require proper installation techniques to perform as designed. This guide covers everything you need to know about selecting and installing vinyl flooring in your home's wet areas.
Choosing the Right Vinyl for Wet Areas
The distinction between "water-resistant" and "waterproof" becomes critical in bathrooms and laundries. Water-resistant flooring handles occasional spills and splashes but isn't designed for prolonged water exposure. For wet areas, you need genuinely waterproof flooring that won't be damaged by standing water or constant humidity.
- SPC Vinyl: Stone Plastic Composite core is 100% waterproof and dimensionally stable
- Sheet Vinyl: Seamless installation eliminates water penetration points
- WPC Vinyl: Waterproof core, though slightly less stable than SPC in extreme moisture
- Glue-Down LVT: Full adhesion prevents water seeping under flooring
For bathrooms with showers, SPC vinyl or sheet vinyl represent the best choices. SPC's rigid, stone-based core won't absorb any moisture and maintains dimensional stability even when exposed to the humidity and temperature changes from daily showering. Sheet vinyl's seamless installation means there are no joints where water could penetrate to the subfloor.
Critical Installation Considerations
Proper installation in wet areas differs from standard room installation. Water management becomes the primary concern, and several additional steps ensure long-term performance.
Subfloor Preparation
The subfloor in wet areas must be thoroughly inspected for existing water damage before new flooring installation. Any signs of moisture problems, mould, or structural damage require remediation before proceeding. In Australian bathrooms, particularly older homes, check for failed waterproofing membranes that may have allowed moisture into the subfloor over time.
Sealing Joints and Edges
Even with waterproof vinyl planks or tiles, the joints between pieces represent potential water entry points. For maximum protection in wet areas, consider applying a bead of silicone sealant to the subfloor around the perimeter before installation. Some manufacturers offer specific seam sealers designed for wet area installations.
Where vinyl meets other surfaces—around toilets, vanities, shower bases, and door thresholds—seal these transitions with colour-matched silicone caulk. This prevents water from seeping under the flooring edge and reaching the subfloor, where it could cause damage or encourage mould growth.
Slip Resistance Considerations
Wet floors are slippery floors, making slip resistance a safety priority in bathrooms and laundries. Australian standards classify flooring slip resistance using the R rating system, with higher numbers indicating greater slip resistance. For domestic wet areas, R10 or higher is recommended.
Highly polished, smooth vinyl that looks stunning in living areas can become dangerously slippery when wet. For bathrooms, prioritise products with matte or textured finishes that maintain traction even when water is present. Wood-look planks with embossed grain textures typically offer good slip resistance while still providing attractive aesthetics.
Installation Methods for Wet Areas
Sheet Vinyl Installation
Sheet vinyl provides the most watertight solution for wet areas because it eliminates most seams. Professional installation is recommended for bathrooms, as the precise cutting required around toilets, vanities, and fixtures challenges most DIYers. Seams, when necessary, should be positioned away from high-water areas and professionally welded to create waterproof bonds.
Click-Lock Plank Installation
Click-lock SPC planks can work well in bathrooms with proper precautions. Ensure the product is specifically rated for wet area use—not all click-lock vinyl qualifies. Use waterproof underlayment if required, and apply silicone sealant around all edges and penetrations. Leave appropriate expansion gaps, but seal them with silicone rather than leaving them open.
Glue-Down Installation
Full-adhesive installation offers excellent water resistance by eliminating air pockets where moisture could collect. Use waterproof adhesive designed for wet area applications, and ensure complete coverage with no gaps or voids. This method prevents water from migrating under the flooring surface, containing any spills to the vinyl surface where they can be easily cleaned.
Special Considerations for Laundries
Laundries face unique challenges including potential flooding from washing machine hose failures, standing water from front-loader leaks, and heavy foot traffic in compact spaces. These rooms benefit from the same waterproof vinyl choices suitable for bathrooms, with additional consideration for durability under heavy appliance loads.
- Choose vinyl with good indentation resistance for areas under washing machines
- Consider installing a water alarm near washing machine connections for early leak detection
- Ensure adequate expansion gaps around appliances to accommodate their weight
- Install transition strips at doorways to contain water within the laundry if flooding occurs
- Use appliance mats under washing machines to distribute weight and catch minor leaks
Maintenance in Wet Areas
Vinyl flooring in bathrooms and laundries requires slightly more attention than in dry areas to maintain its appearance and prevent moisture-related issues. Develop habits that protect your investment:
Wipe up standing water promptly, particularly around the base of toilets and near shower entries. While the vinyl itself won't be damaged, standing water can eventually work its way into seams or under edges. Use bath mats outside showers and in front of sinks to capture most water before it reaches the floor.
Ensure adequate ventilation in bathrooms to control humidity. Run exhaust fans during and after showering, and consider a dehumidifier in poorly ventilated spaces. While waterproof vinyl handles humidity well, constantly high moisture levels can affect wall surfaces, fixtures, and create an environment conducive to mould growth elsewhere in the room.
Inspect silicone seals around edges and fixtures annually, reapplying as needed to maintain waterproof barriers. Silicone can shrink or pull away from surfaces over time, creating gaps that allow water penetration. Proactive maintenance prevents the water damage that occurs when seals fail unnoticed.
With proper product selection, careful installation, and ongoing maintenance, vinyl flooring provides an excellent solution for bathrooms and laundries. The combination of complete water resistance, easy cleaning, comfortable feel underfoot, and attractive appearance makes it an increasingly popular choice for Australian wet areas.