A flood-resistant material is a building material that can be in direct contact with floodwater for at least 72 hours without significant damage. After a flood, it needs only cleaning rather than replacement. Concrete, ceramic tile, and some other hard surfaces qualify. Federal guidance lists which materials meet the standard.
Flood-Resistant vs. Flood Damage-Resistant Material
These are two names for the same idea. Federal flood rules use the longer term, flood damage-resistant, and define it as a material that can take direct and prolonged contact with floodwaters without significant damage. “Prolonged” means at least 72 hours. You’ll see the shorter “flood-resistant” in everyday use. Our flood damage-resistant page covers the full definition and a longer list of floors that qualify.
Think of it as the difference between a dish and a paper plate. After a soak, one gets washed and goes back in the cupboard. The other goes in the trash.
For floors, the same federal guidance rates cast-in-place concrete and formed-in-place epoxy and polyurethane flooring as acceptable, along with some tile and glued-down vinyl. It rates carpeting, laminate, and engineered wood as unacceptable.
If your basement flooded and you’d rather not tear out flooring again, our guide to basement flooring after a flood compares your options.
Flood-Resistant Material FAQ
What materials can be used to prevent flooding?
Flood-resistant materials don’t keep water out. They just survive it. Keeping water out takes things like a working sump pump, good drainage, and grading that sends water away from the house.
What is the best flooring for a house that’s prone to flooding?
Floors that can be cleaned and dried in place hold up best. Coated, stained, or polished concrete, tile set in waterproof mortar, and solid vinyl glued with chemical-set adhesive all qualify. Carpet, laminate, and engineered wood don’t.