Waterproof Flooring Options for Kitchens and Bathrooms
Protect Your Space Without Compromising on Style
Kitchens and bathrooms are the busiest and most moisture-prone areas in any home — especially in a city like Toronto, where seasonal changes can increase humidity and wear on your floors. Whether it’s splashes from the sink, steam from the shower, or the occasional spill, these areas need flooring that can handle water and look great doing it.
The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice style for durability. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best waterproof flooring options for kitchens and bathrooms — so you can create a space that’s both functional and beautiful.
1. Porcelain Tile: Classic and Reliable
Why it works:
Porcelain tile is one of the most waterproof flooring materials available. It’s made from dense clay and fired at high temperatures, making it extremely resistant to water, stains, and wear.
Perfect for:
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Bathrooms
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Kitchen floors
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Showers and backsplashes
Pros:
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100% waterproof
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Durable and scratch-resistant
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Comes in endless styles — from stone looks to wood-look tiles
Things to consider:
Tile can feel cold and hard underfoot, especially during Toronto winters. Consider adding heated floors underneath for extra comfort.
2. Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Stylish and Water-Resistant
Why it works:
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are top choices for homeowners who want a warm, realistic look of wood or stone — without the water worries.
Perfect for:
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Kitchens
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Powder rooms
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Laundry rooms
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Basement bathrooms
Pros:
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Water-resistant to fully waterproof, depending on the core material (WPC or SPC)
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Softer underfoot than tile
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Easy DIY installation (click-lock systems available)
Things to consider:
Make sure to choose a fully waterproof option, not just “water-resistant,” especially for bathrooms.
3. Natural Stone: Luxury with Proper Care
Why it works:
Natural stones like marble, slate, and granite add a high-end, timeless look to your home. When sealed properly, they’re highly resistant to water.
Perfect for:
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Bathroom floors and walls
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Kitchen backsplashes
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High-end renovations
Pros:
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Unique and luxurious appearance
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Extremely durable when maintained
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Boosts home value
Things to consider:
Stone requires regular sealing to maintain water resistance. It can also be slippery when wet — opt for a textured finish for added safety.
4. Waterproof Laminate: A Newer Contender
Why it works:
While traditional laminate wasn’t ideal for moisture, newer waterproof laminate products offer improved resistance and beautiful wood visuals.
Perfect for:
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Kitchens
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Half-baths
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Condo renovations where noise control is important
Pros:
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Looks like hardwood
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Water-resistant core materials
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Comfortable and warm underfoot
Things to consider:
Still not ideal for standing water or full bathroom installations. Better suited for low-moisture environments or half-baths.
5. Sheet Vinyl: Seamless and Budget-Friendly
Why it works:
Sheet vinyl is a single, continuous layer that creates a nearly waterproof barrier — perfect for bathrooms or laundry rooms where water may pool.
Perfect for:
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Budget-conscious bathroom remodels
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Basement laundry areas
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Rental units
Pros:
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Seamless surface = fewer areas for water to seep through
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Soft underfoot and quiet
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Very affordable
Things to consider:
Fewer design options than luxury vinyl or tile, and can be harder to repair if damaged.
Bonus: Heated Floors for Comfort in Cold Months
Toronto winters can be unforgiving. Consider installing in-floor heating under your tile or vinyl flooring to keep your bathroom or kitchen warm and cozy year-round.
Choosing the Right Waterproof Flooring for Your Home
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Flooring Type | Waterproof | Best For | Style Options | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain Tile | 100% | Bathrooms, kitchens | Endless (stone, wood) | Low |
| Luxury Vinyl (LVP/LVT) | Mostly | Kitchens, powder rooms | Wood & stone looks | Low |
| Natural Stone | With sealing | High-end renovations | Unique & upscale | Moderate |
| Waterproof Laminate | Some types | Kitchens, condos | Realistic wood looks | Low |
| Sheet Vinyl | Nearly | Budget projects | Limited | Low |
Need Help Choosing? Visit Balance Flooring Toronto
At Balance Flooring, we help homeowners across Toronto find flooring that works as hard as they do. Whether you're renovating your kitchen or upgrading your bathroom, we carry waterproof tile, vinyl, and more — all in stylish, durable finishes.
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Visit our Toronto showroom
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Talk to our expert flooring consultants
- Explore flooring built to last — and impress