What every designer wants you to know about Waterproof Wood
Yes you read that right. Waterproof Wood! How is this possible? In simple terms, there is a special coating on the surface of the wood that makes it waterproof. In technical terms, “ A hydrophobic sealant is applied to the top of the hardwood veneer which protects the plank from water damage. Also, the testing found that due to the thickness of the veneer, combined with the SPC waterproof core, water will evaporate before damage occurs to the veneer or subfloor.” The official term for the material is H2O Waterproof Hardwood. Here we will go into a few of the most commonly asked questions about this amazing flooring!
Wait … is this really wood?
Yes! The H2O Hardwood is real wood. There are no two planks that are the same and the lengths vary from 16”-72”. Unlike traditional wood planks however, the H2O Hardwood will not cup or swell. This is because of the hydrophobic sealant it is treated with. This means the look and variation of real wood without the maintenance. Hallelujah!
WHO?
Who is the perfect candidate for waterproof wood?
Do you love the look of real wood but can not handle the thought of having to clean up every drop of water that gets on the floor? Do you want all the variation with wood, but just can not handle the maintenance? H2O Hardwood might be a great option for you!!
Although H2O Hardwood is more durable than traditional hardwood planks due to the treatments, it is still real wood. European white oak is much stronger than American oak and should hold up just fine for your 3 kids and two dogs and active lifestyle. Waterproof wood is a great option to save on the tear out of your existing floors to float these beauties right over that red/orange looking wood, or that dated ceramic tile.
WHAT TO EXPECT: WATERPROOF WOOD
Everything you need to know about Preparation, installation and maintenance of Waterproof Wood.
REALLY?
Can this really go over my existing flooring?
Say goodbye to those dated travertine tiles! (We know they are somewhere in your house.) Yes! This can absolutely go over your existing hard surface flooring. This is a great feature because it not only saves a lot of money with demo work, but it minimizes dust and debris!
We have a rule here at Savvy. If your floors are 75% hard surface or more, meaning they are mostly not carpet, then laying the H2O over existing flooring is a great option! When there is a mix of carpet and hard surface what the installer will need to do is take out the carpet and level off the surface to make everything even with your hard surfaces. That is why if the area is majority carpet we suggest demoing the entire area.
CATCH?
What is the catch?
If we are being honest there are not a lot of downsides to the H2O Hardwood, but again this is natural wood, so wear and tear can happen if you are very hard on your floors. Cleaning with less harsh chemicals is also recommended as the harsh chemicals can affect the coating on the surface, and H2O hardwood will fade if in the direct sun over a period of time. It still is a natural element, there have just been modifications done to make it better!
WHERE?
Where can I purchase Waterproof Wood?
We can help! Schedule a free discovery call and we will walk you through the process.
MORE?
Need to know more? Check out our IGTV on Waterproof Wood, and our interview with our vendor for more in depth details!