How To Choose Waterproof Flooring for Commercial Use

Selecting the right waterproof flooring for commercial spaces means balancing durability, aesthetics, safety, and ROI. In environments like offices, lobbies, hotels, and retail stores, floors encounter constant foot traffic, spills, and varying moisture levels. Choosing the right product is critical. In this guide, we’ll walk through three top-performing waterproof commercial flooring solutions—Pergo Outlast+ Waterproof Laminate, 4 mm SPC, and 5 mm Waterproof LVT—to help you make an informed decision that supports your brand’s product line.

1. Waterproof Laminate

Top Reasons to Consider:

• Uses Mohawk's SpillProtect coating to seal seams and resist water damage, providing reliable performance for occasional spills—ideal for break rooms or conference areas.

• Holds an AC4 durability rating, making it suitable for light commercial applications like offices and hospitality spaces.

• Comes in a diverse range of wood-look finishes (oak, maple, hickory) for upscale aesthetics .

• Home Depot’s bestseller in basement-friendly products, praised for its stylish wood appeal and waterproof qualities .

• Commercial warranty and easy maintenance with standard cleaning routines.

Considerations:

• It’s water-resistant, not fully waterproof like SPC or LVT—avoid standing water for long periods.

• Like most laminates, it has a harder feel than vinyl products.

• No stone-look styles and lacks explicit low-VOC certification.

  
  

2. Waterproof SPC – 4 mm Stone Plastic Composite

Why 4 mm SPC Should Be on Your Radar:

• Offers 100% waterproof performance thanks to its limestone-based rigid core—perfect for wet zones such as cafes, kitchens, and lobbies.

• Engineered for extreme durability: dense core resists dents, scratches, and impacts in high-traffic environments .

• Exceptional dimensional stability: minimal expansion/contraction in fluctuating environments—ideal for large floor areas.

• Click-lock installation system makes it quick and labor-efficient for commercial refurbishments.

• Hygienic and low-maintenance with mold resistance—suitable for healthcare and hospitality settings.

• Often contains low-VOC or formaldehyde-free materials.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Denser core can feel firmer underfoot; consider underlayments for added comfort.

• Slightly higher price point than basic LVT or laminate, though total cost is reduced by durability.

3. Waterproof LVT – 5 mm Luxury Vinyl Tile

What Makes 5 mm LVT Shine:

• Provides full waterproof protection, resisting moisture in all commercial settings without swelling.

• Features thick wear layers and textured real-look finishes—wood, stone, or tile. Realistic and appealing.

• Softer and quieter underfoot than SPC, ideal for office spaces or customer areas.

• Designed for easy cleaning with damp mops; wear layers resist scratches, stains, and scuffs.

• Installation is flexible—click-lock or glue-down—with some offering attached cork or foam underlays to improve sound insulation.

How to Choose Which One Suits Your Project

Making the right choice depends on three key factors: traffic volume & moisture, comfort & appearance, and budget & ROI.

FAQs:

Is waterproof laminate really waterproof?

No—laminate resists spills but won't survive standing water. It's great for moderate moisture areas, but not full waterproof zones.

What's better—SPC or LVT?

SPC is denser and more impact-resistant, perfect for high-traffic or wet zones. LVT is softer, more comfortable, and offers a wider range of design styles.

How thick should commercial waterproof flooring be?

Aim for at least 4 mm core and a minimum 12–20 mil wear layer. Thicker LVT (5 mm+) or SPC improves comfort, stability, and sound performance .

What installation method is best for commercial flooring?

Click-lock systems minimize downtime and adhesive fumes—ideal for retrofits. In wet areas, use waterproof adhesives and seal edges.

✅ Conclusion: The Final Pick

• For high-moisture, high-traffic zones like lobbies, kitchens, and restrooms, 4 mm Waterproof SPC is your top choice thanks to its rock-solid performance and fully waterproof core.

• For spaces where comfort and design matter—offices, lounges, showrooms—go with 5 mm Waterproof LVT for elegance and resilience.

• For lighter-use areas where wood aesthetics at a lower cost are key, Pergo Outlast+ Waterproof Laminate offers great value and visual appeal.