Elevating the subfloor is a clever trick—I've seen it done with sleepers too, and clients definitely appreciated having that extra buffer. Recently though, I've been exploring waterproof flooring materials like vinyl plank or ceramic tile as an added layer of protection. Anyone here tried combining elevated subfloors with waterproof finishes? Curious how that combo would hold up in the long run...
"Recently though, I've been exploring waterproof flooring materials like vinyl plank or ceramic tile as an added layer of protection."
Totally agree with this approach—combining elevated subfloors with waterproof finishes is a solid strategy. A friend of mine did exactly that after their basement flooded twice. They used sleepers to elevate the subfloor and topped it with luxury vinyl planks. It's been about three years now, and they've had zero issues. Plus, it looks fantastic...definitely worth considering if you're in a flood-prone area.
Elevated subfloors definitely help, but vinyl isn't foolproof from my experience. Had a minor flood last spring, and moisture still got trapped underneath causing mold. I'd lean toward ceramic tile personally...it's pricier upfront, but seems more reliable long-term.
Ceramic tile definitely has its perks, but have you ever stepped barefoot onto cold tile in the middle of winter? Instant regret, haha. Wondering if anyone's tried cork flooring? Heard it's naturally mold-resistant and warmer underfoot, but not sure how it holds up after flooding. Wouldn't want my floor turning into a giant soggy wine stopper...
"Wondering if anyone's tried cork flooring? Heard it's naturally mold-resistant and warmer underfoot, but not sure how it holds up after flooding."
I've installed cork flooring several times, and honestly, it's a pretty solid choice for comfort and warmth. You're right—it's naturally mold-resistant, which is great in humid or damp environments. But when it comes to actual flooding...well, that's a bit trickier.
If your home is genuinely flood-prone, I'd suggest taking some extra precautions. First off, make sure you pick cork flooring that's specifically sealed with a waterproof finish—not just water-resistant. This makes a big difference in how well it'll handle standing water. Next, consider installing a moisture barrier underneath; it’s an extra step but totally worth it to prevent water from seeping in from below.
In case of flooding, the key is rapid response: mop up quickly, use fans or dehumidifiers to dry thoroughly, and check carefully for any swelling or warping afterward. Cork can handle short-term exposure pretty well if it's sealed properly and dried quickly—but prolonged soaking might cause permanent damage.
Bottom line: cork floors are comfy and eco-friendly, but they do need some TLC to survive flooding conditions.
