Is LVT Flooring Really Waterproof? We Put It to the Test
- Charlie Mac
- Jul 16
- 4 min read
LVT flooring is often advertised as "100% waterproof" — but is it really? We did the research, asked the experts, and ran our own tests to find out.
"We installed LVT in our bathroom thinking it was waterproof. One leak later, and the floor still looks perfect. I'm seriously impressed." — Jenny S., homeowner from Manchester
Introduction
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring has become a go-to for UK homeowners wanting a stylish floor that can stand up to water. It's marketed as waterproof, not just water-resistant, and that's a big reason it shows up in bathrooms, kitchens, and even basements.
But is it truly waterproof in the real world? Can it handle a burst pipe or daily steamy showers? And what happens if water gets underneath it?
We’ve pulled together manufacturer claims, lab test data, and real-world experiences to settle the debate. Spoiler: it's not just marketing hype — but you do need to know the full story.
What Do Manufacturers Mean by "Waterproof"?
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant
Water-resistant: Repels splashes or brief contact but may absorb water over time
Waterproof: Impervious to water under normal household conditions
Most leading brands (like Karndean, Quick-Step, and Amtico) describe their LVT products as 100% waterproof, meaning:
The vinyl core will not swell, warp, or stain from water contact
The surface layer can handle spills, moisture, and mopping
Joints between planks or tiles are tight enough to prevent water intrusion
External Source: Karndean Designflooring confirms their LVT products are waterproof but still require correct installation to prevent issues underneath.
Real-World Water Exposure Test
We conducted a 7-day test simulating real water exposure:
Method:
Submerged sample planks of Karndean, Quick-Step, and budget LVT in water for 7 days
Let them dry for 48 hours
Inspected for:
Swelling or warping
Colour changes
Joint expansion
Results:
No visible swelling or damage across all premium brands
Budget brand showed slight joint expansion and edge curling
All samples retained texture and colour
Takeaway:
The waterproof label holds up — but quality matters. Mid- to high-end LVT performed much better than cheap alternatives.
What Happens if Water Gets Underneath?
Even if the LVT itself is waterproof, water beneath the floor can still cause problems:
Potential Risks:
Mould growth under the subfloor
Click system movement if the floor floats and moisture changes the shape of the base
Staining of underlay or floorboards below
According to Quick-Step, LVT should never be installed over damp subfloors without a moisture barrier.
Prevention:
Install over a dry, sealed subfloor
Use a DPM (damp-proof membrane) for concrete bases
Seal around edges in wet rooms (bathrooms, utility rooms)
Best Areas to Use Waterproof LVT
LVT is highly suited to rooms with regular moisture, such as:
Bathrooms (especially cloakrooms and ensuites)
Kitchens
Utility and laundry rooms
Basements or garden rooms
Entranceways and porches
User Review: "We laid click vinyl in the kids' bathroom three years ago. They splash water everywhere. Still looks like the day we put it down." — Dave R., Reddit DIY UK
What LVT Is Not Good For (Despite Being Waterproof)
Steam Rooms: Constant heat and moisture may cause lifting
Outdoor Areas: UV and temperature changes can damage LVT over time
Rooms with known damp issues: Always address the cause before flooring
Key Factors That Affect Water Resistance
1. Installation Quality
Poorly installed LVT will let water seep through joins and edges. Always:
Use the right underlay
Leave proper expansion gaps
Seal perimeter edges in wet zones
2. Brand Quality
Premium brands use multi-layer construction with reinforced cores:
Karndean: K-Core and waterproof PVC layers
Quick-Step: Rigid vinyl with built-in underlay
Amtico: High-spec PU coating with moisture resistance
3. Flooring Type
Click LVT: Best for wet areas; easy to replace sections
Glue-down LVT: Also waterproof, but needs level surface and full adhesive coverage
External Resource: Amtico Flooring explains the structure of their waterproof wear layers
Summary Table – Is It Really Waterproof?
Feature | Premium LVT | Budget LVT |
Waterproof core | Yes | Sometimes |
Handles standing water | Yes | Short-term |
Surface swelling | No | Possibly |
Subfloor moisture-proof | No (needs barrier) | No |
Recommended for bathrooms | Yes | Not always |
FAQ: Waterproof LVT Flooring
Q: Can I install LVT in a shower room?A: You can install LVT in bathrooms, but not directly in open showers unless fully sealed and approved by the brand.
Q: Will LVT flooring absorb water over time?A: High-quality LVT will not absorb water. Cheaper options may degrade with long-term moisture exposure.
Q: Do I need to seal LVT after installation?A: No, but you should seal around edges in wet rooms to protect the subfloor.
Q: Is waterproof the same as water-resistant?A: No. Waterproof means the material won’t be damaged by water. Water-resistant means it holds up to splashes but not full exposure.
Q: What happens if water leaks under click LVT?A: The vinyl won't be damaged, but mould and odour may develop underneath. Dry it quickly and address any leak source.
Conclusion
So, is LVT flooring really waterproof? Yes — if you choose the right product and install it properly.
Premium LVT from trusted brands like Karndean, Amtico, and Quick-Step offers real waterproof performance, making it a top pick for wet areas. But waterproof doesn’t mean problem-proof. Subfloor prep and sealing around edges still matter.
Avoid bargain-bin LVT for bathrooms, and always check for a DPM if you're working over concrete. With proper planning, LVT gives you the style of wood or stone — without worrying about splashes, spills, or soggy surprises.
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