Is Mohawk Laminate Flooring Waterproof? Structure, Durability, Maintenance and Installation

Mohawk laminate flooring has gained popularity as a cost-effective alternative to hardwood that offers impressive style and performance. However, one common question homeowners ask is whether this flooring option can withstand water exposure. While traditional laminate flooring has historically been vulnerable to moisture damage, Mohawk has developed advanced technologies like RevWood and RevWood Plus that offer enhanced water resistance capabilities. Understanding the structure, actual water resistance properties, durability factors, maintenance requirements, and proper installation methods is crucial for determining if Mohawk laminate is the right flooring solution for your specific needs.

Mohawk laminate flooring features a sophisticated multi-layer construction that contributes to its performance characteristics. The foundation begins with a stabilizing backing layer that provides support and helps prevent warping. Above this sits the core layer, typically made from high-density fiberboard (HDF) that has been compressed under high pressure and temperature to create a stable foundation.

The design layer follows, featuring high-definition printing technology that replicates the appearance of natural materials like hardwood or stone with remarkable realism. The topmost layer consists of a transparent wear layer made of aluminum oxide or melamine resin that protects against scratches, stains, and fading. This layer is critical for everyday durability and determines how well the flooring withstands foot traffic.

In Mohawk’s enhanced water-resistant collections, the edges and joints receive special treatment with hydrophobic materials or sealants. This construction technique creates tighter seams that help prevent water from penetrating the core, which is the most vulnerable component when exposed to moisture.

Water Resistance Properties of Mohawk Laminate

Standard Laminate vs. Water-Resistant Options

Traditional laminate flooring, including some Mohawk lines, offers limited water resistance. These conventional products can typically handle small spills if cleaned promptly but will suffer damage from standing water or prolonged moisture exposure. The HDF core tends to absorb water, swell, and deteriorate when wet.

Mohawk’s advanced water-resistant laminate lines provide significantly improved protection against everyday accidents and spills. Products like RevWood and RevWood Plus feature enhanced core materials and specialized edge treatments that prevent moisture infiltration for longer periods—typically 24-72 hours depending on the specific collection.

It’s important to note that even these advanced options are not fully waterproof in the same way vinyl flooring might be. They’re better described as water-resistant, offering protection against temporary moisture exposure rather than permanent water immersion.

Mohawk’s RevWood Technology

Mohawk RevWood represents the company’s innovative approach to laminate flooring challenges. This technology combines the visual appeal of hardwood with enhanced performance features. RevWood products incorporate Mohawk’s Uniclic® locking system, which creates exceptionally tight joints that help prevent water penetration at the seams—traditionally the most vulnerable points for moisture damage.

RevWood Plus takes water resistance further with Mohawk’s WetProtect™ technology. This advanced system features waterproof surface protection and a waterproof locking system with a perimeter seal that prevents water from seeping through the joints. According to Mohawk, RevWood Plus offers up to 72 hours of spill protection, making it suitable for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

Both RevWood and RevWood Plus come with warranties that specifically cover water damage—a significant advantage over standard laminate products whose warranties typically exclude water-related issues.

Durability of Mohawk Laminate Flooring

Wear Layer Protection

The durability of Mohawk laminate flooring largely depends on its wear layer—the transparent protective coating that shields the design layer from damage. Mohawk’s laminate products feature wear layers ranging from 12 to 22 mils (thousandths of an inch) in thickness, with the higher-end options offering superior scratch and dent resistance.

This protective layer incorporates aluminum oxide particles, one of the hardest materials available, providing excellent defense against scratches, scuffs, and everyday wear. The wear layer also offers UV protection to prevent fading from sunlight exposure, helping the flooring maintain its appearance over time.

For homes with pets or high activity levels, Mohawk’s premium laminate collections with thicker wear layers are recommended for their enhanced resistance to claw marks, furniture dragging, and other potential sources of damage.

Long-Term Performance

Mohawk laminate flooring is engineered for long-term performance, with many lines carrying residential warranties ranging from 25 years to lifetime coverage. The company’s RevWood Plus products boast an All Pet Plus Warranty that specifically covers pet accidents—a significant advantage for households with furry companions.

Unlike solid hardwood, Mohawk laminate won’t require refinishing, and it generally maintains its appearance with proper care. The advanced printing technologies used create incredibly realistic wood or stone visuals that resist fading even in sun-exposed areas, ensuring consistent aesthetics throughout the product’s lifespan.

Independent testing demonstrates that quality laminate like Mohawk’s premium lines can maintain structural integrity for 15-30 years depending on use conditions and maintenance practices. However, extremely heavy traffic or harsh environments may reduce this expected lifespan.

Maintenance Guidelines for Mohawk Laminate

Routine Cleaning Procedures

Maintaining Mohawk laminate flooring is straightforward but requires adherence to specific guidelines to preserve its appearance and water-resistant properties. For daily cleaning, a microfiber mop or vacuum with a soft brush attachment effectively removes dust and debris without scratching the surface. Avoid using vacuums with beater bars that could damage the wear layer.

For deeper cleaning, Mohawk recommends using their proprietary cleaning products or a mild solution of warm water and gentle dish soap. Apply the cleaning solution sparingly with a lightly damp mop rather than saturating the floor. Steam cleaners and wet mops should be avoided, as excessive moisture can compromise even water-resistant laminate over time.

Regular maintenance should also include removing shoes at entryways and using felt pads under furniture to prevent scratches. Place mats at exterior doors to trap dirt and moisture before they reach the flooring.

Handling Spills and Moisture

Despite the water-resistant properties of RevWood and RevWood Plus, prompt attention to spills remains essential for maximizing the lifespan of Mohawk laminate flooring. Clean up any liquid as soon as possible using a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel, working from the outside of the spill inward to prevent spreading.

For RevWood Plus with WetProtect™ technology, you have extended protection (up to 72 hours) against liquid penetration. However, this doesn’t mean spills should be left unattended. Standing water should always be removed promptly, and areas where frequent spills occur should be monitored regularly.

In bathrooms and other high-moisture environments, use bath mats and consider placing waterproof mats near sinks and tubs to provide additional protection. Regularly check under appliances like refrigerators for leaks that might go unnoticed.

Installation Considerations

Subfloor Preparation Requirements

Proper installation begins with thorough subfloor preparation, which significantly impacts both the water resistance and longevity of Mohawk laminate flooring. The subfloor must be clean, dry, level, and structurally sound before installation begins. Any deviation greater than 3/16 inch over a 10-foot radius should be corrected to ensure proper locking of the planks.

For concrete subfloors, moisture testing is essential. Mohawk recommends calcium chloride or relative humidity testing to confirm moisture levels are within acceptable ranges. A moisture barrier is generally required for installations over concrete, even with water-resistant products, to prevent potential vapor migration through the concrete slab.

For wood subfloors, proper ventilation and moisture content below 12% are necessary preconditions. Any damaged areas should be repaired, and the surface should be thoroughly cleaned of dust and debris before starting the installation process.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

While Mohawk’s Uniclic® system is designed for relatively simple installation, there are important considerations when deciding between professional and DIY approaches. Professional installation ensures proper technique, especially for the critical moisture barrier and edge sealing that maximize water resistance. Professionals also typically guarantee their work, providing recourse if problems develop.

For DIY enthusiasts, Mohawk provides detailed installation guides and videos. The floating floor installation method doesn’t require adhesives, making it accessible for experienced homeowners. However, proper acclimation of materials (48 hours in installation conditions) and careful attention to expansion gaps are essential for successful self-installation.

Whether choosing professional or DIY installation, maintaining correct expansion space (typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch) around the perimeter is critical. This accommodates natural expansion and contraction with temperature and humidity changes while preserving the integrity of the water-resistant locking system.