Hybrid timber floor for enclosed patio

[PHILIPM]

Hello,

I have fully enclosed my outdoor patio, finally! 😊

It is wind/rain/uv proof. However not fully sealed in the way that the bottom of the sliding/hinged door is covered by the brush strip seal i.e. Raven RP2A Brush Strip Clear 920mm. It is like under covered garage, fully enclosed but still not fully sealed like inside the house, so cold/hot air can still go in, but it is fully rain/waterproof.

Question I have is, is it suitable for me to install/use hybrid timber floor in my enclosed patio now?'

Thank you in advance!

[MitchellMc]

Hi @PHILIPM,

I’ve had this discussion with our supplier of hybrid flooring before, and they’ve made it clear that it’s only rated for indoor applications. Hybrid vinyl flooring is indeed marketed as waterproof and durable, but it is primarily designed for indoor use within fully enclosed spaces. This is because the product's installation and performance specifications are based on a controlled environment free from significant moisture exposure.

Using it in an enclosed exterior area like your patio could void the warranty, as moisture could still get in and under the boards. Unlike internal areas, enclosed outdoor spaces aren’t built to the same stringent standards, and no testing has been done for this type of environment. You could certainly go ahead with the installation, but just be aware that if any issues arise, it’s unlikely they’ll be covered under warranty.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[PHILIPM]

Thanks Mitchell.

I am confused.

It says 100% waterproof but not that little moist?

I might give it a try 😊

[MitchellMc]

It's a bit confusing, and that's why I've discussed it previously with the manufacturer @PHILIPM. It's waterproof, as in the surface doesn't let moisture seep through it. However, they still advise a moist mop and not saturating the flooring. Their concerns mainly arise from the possibility of moisture getting in and under the flooring from the edges where the expansion gap is to be allowed. If it does, then bulging and warping can occur. For instance, if water enters under your door seal, it can then creep under the flooring. This trapped moisture can increase humidity and cause issues.

Mitchell

[PHILIPM]

How sad. ☹

Since the manufacturer has not tested this before, I wonder if we can use this for test? We can ask them to sponsor it and use our enclosed alfresco to test their product!!! 😊 If successful, their product will be NO 1 in the country!!!

If not what other options I have to make it look/feel like indoor timber floor like?

[MitchellMc]

That’s a creative idea! You could reach out to the manufacturer and pitch a real-world test.

Mitchell