Everyone knows that real wood and moisture are a disaster in the making. The last thing you need in your home are warped or rotting floorboards. Enter waterproof engineered wood floors and you finally have a solution – beautiful wooden floors without the hassles of real wood. 

When it comes to flooring options for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, waterproof engineered wood flooring is increasingly becoming the UK’s go-to choice. Engineered wood offers the beauty and warmth of traditional wood but with enhanced stability and resistance to the moisture that often plague wet environments. 

Thanks to innovations in flooring technology and design, waterproof engineered wood has evolved significantly. Let’s explore the emerging trends in waterproof engineered wood flooring, providing insights into the latest materials, designs, and technologies that are transforming flooring for kitchens and bathrooms.

One of the key innovations in waterproof engineered wood flooring has been in the core material. While traditional engineered wood uses a plywood or HDF (high-density fibreboard) core, the latest trends focus on improving moisture resistance with more advanced core technologies. Here’s a look at what’s new:

The development of waterproof HDF (High Density Fibreboard) and WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) cores has made engineered wood even more resistant to water. WPC cores, in particular, are becoming a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Made from a blend of wood fibres and plastic, WPC cores are inherently water-resistant, meaning they won’t absorb moisture like traditional wood cores, reducing the risk of warping or swelling. This core material is not only waterproof but also exceptionally durable, offering enhanced resistance to scratches and dents.

WPC floors often come with tight, click-lock joints, making them easier to install in moisture-prone areas.

Plywood cores, which have traditionally been used in engineered wood flooring, have also been improved with moisture-resistant treatments. Some modern engineered wood floors now come with multi-layered plywood that includes a moisture barrier layer. This added protection ensures the floor remains stable and durable even in areas with high humidity or occasional water exposure.

While the core material is essential for waterproofing, the finish applied to engineered wood floors also plays a crucial role in enhancing moisture resistance. Manufacturers are developing innovative coatings and finishes that help engineered wood floors hold up better in wet conditions. These treatments not only protect the wood from moisture but also make it easier to maintain over time.

Traditional finishes, such as lacquer and wax, have been replaced by more advanced UV-cured oil finishes and polyurethane coatings. These finishes are highly resistant to water and stains, providing a protective layer on top of the wood veneer. UV oil finishes penetrate the wood grain and provide a durable, water-resistant surface that is more flexible than traditional lacquers, meaning it’s less likely to crack or peel when exposed to moisture.

Polyurethane finishes, which form a hard, protective layer on the surface, offer excellent water resistance, making them perfect for areas like kitchens and bathrooms. These finishes can withstand spills, splashes, and high humidity levels without degrading over time.

Many brands now offer click-lock waterproof engineered wood flooring, where the planks simply click together without the need for adhesives. This floating installation system is perfect for areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where subfloor conditions can vary. The waterproof layers and tight joints lock the floor in place, preventing water from seeping through the seams and causing damage to the subfloor beneath.

Floating floors are also easy to replace or repair, should the need arise, which is a major advantage for busy family homes.

Sustainability continues to be a growing trend in the UK, and it’s no different for engineered wood flooring. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their choices, there’s a demand for eco-friendly waterproof flooring options. Manufacturers are now focusing on creating more sustainable, water-resistant flooring solutions by using responsibly sourced wood and eco-conscious materials.

For those seeking a more sustainable option, many brands offer recycled or reclaimed wood engineered floors. These floors not only help to reduce the carbon footprint but also provide a unique, one-of-a-kind aesthetic. With advanced waterproofing treatments, reclaimed wood is now being used in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms without sacrificing performance or style.

Homeowners are increasingly opting for wide planks that add a sense of spaciousness and luxury to a room. The additional advantage is that wider planks allow for fewer seams, which also helps with water resistance.

The demand for waterproof engineered wood flooring in bathrooms and kitchens continues to rise in the UK, driven by innovations in both design and performance. With enhanced core materials like WPC and HDF, cutting-edge finishes, and advanced installation methods, engineered wood floors are now more resilient to water and humidity than ever before. At Flooring Factory Outlet, you have access to an array of stylish, sustainable, and long-lasting solutions that make waterproof engineered wood flooring an ideal choice for wet areas in the home. Talk to us on 020 3004 6630 or email at [email protected]