Gone are the days when bathrooms were just functional. Now, they’re a statement of style. A recent survey reveals that 33% of homeowners renovated their bathrooms because they couldn’t stand the old one, while 25% did it to personalize a recently purchased home.
Successful bathroom renovations take a series of right decisions. However, these personal retreats present unique challenges, especially when it comes to flooring.
The main culprit? Water.
It doesn’t matter if it’s an overspray, spill, leak, drip, or just kids being kids- water will inevitably end up on your bathroom floor. Hence, you need flooring that can handle frequent moisture and splashes, as well as changes in temperature and humidity.
Fortunately, you have a wide range of options to choose from, and there’s something to suit every style and budget. Let’s dive into nine attractive and popular bathroom flooring materials.
1. Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are a top pick for homeowners. Made from dense clay fired at high temperatures, porcelain is highly resistant to water, stains, and scratches, making it perfect for wet areas like bathrooms.
Because porcelain tiles come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns, you can use them to create the perfect look for your space, no matter the vibe you’re after.
When installing porcelain tiles, remember to use a waterproof membrane and proper grouting techniques for a watertight seal. Clean and reseal your tiled floor periodically to keep it in pristine condition for longer.
2. Vinyl Flooring
If budget-friendly and good-looking flooring is what you’re after, vinyl is your go-to. Vinyl flooring is probably the easiest to install, with a safe, tactile surface that can be printed in almost any color or pattern.
Vinyl floors usually come in two variations- sheet vinyl and luxury vinyl planks. Of these, sheet vinyl can cover small bathrooms with zero seams. Luxury vinyl planks (LVP), on the other hand, come as boards that lock together and are laid as a floating floor.
Now, let’s talk benefits. Vinyl is a cinch to clean and feels comfortable underfoot. It can also handle spills and splashes hassle-free- a must-have for bathroom settings.
That said, vinyl flooring can get dented by heavy stuff and is not as aesthetically pleasing as some other options. But all things considered, it’s a practical, wallet-friendly choice.
3. Natural Stone
For a touch of luxury, consider natural stones like marble, quartz, granite, or slate. While natural stone tiles are hard, durable, and easy on the eyes, they are a pricier option. It’s a significant investment, but pays off in resale value.
If you’re choosing natural stone bathroom floors, think about the overall decor and how much you’re willing to care for it. Marble, for example, can be prone to scratches and needs regular cleaning. Likewise, travertine looks unique but requires more upkeep.
Also, make sure your bathroom flooring is installed correctly to avoid water damage. It’s best to leave this task to the pros and OMG Kitchen & Bath. With decades of flooring experience, we can do the job right the first time.
4. Hardwood
Hardwood bathroom floors aren’t unheard of. In fact, they bring warmth and a natural, cozy feel that’s hard to match.
But not all hardwood is fit for a bathroom’s damp environment. You need the right kind, like teak, oak, or cedar. These woods can handle humidity and occasional splashes much better than others.
Engineered hardwood is another smart choice. It’s designed to resist warping and swelling and is a safer bet for wet areas.
To keep your hardwood flooring in good condition, be vigilant about spills. Wipe them up quickly to prevent water damage. You’ll also need to re-finish your floors every few months.
5. Laminate Bathroom Flooring
Do you have reservations about using solid hardwood for your bathroom floors? We recommend laminate bathroom flooring instead. Think of it as hardwood’s clever cousin- it gives you the wood look without the hefty price tag!
Although laminate floors are wallet-friendly, there are things to keep in mind. Firstly, laminate uses a fiber core that can swell if it gets wet. Worst case scenario, the edges of the laminate will peel, and the floor will buckle. So, if you enjoy splashy baths, remember to choose a fully waterproof laminate floor- not those described as water-resistant.
6. Tile
Believe it or not, there’s plenty more to tile floors than the usual porcelain and ceramic. Take mosaic tiles, for instance. These tiny, colorful pieces can turn your bathroom floor into a stunning work of art!
However, it’s important to think about safety and comfort when choosing tile options. Choose slip-resistant tiles for your bathroom to keep accidents at bay. Also, consider their shape and size. Larger tiles mean fewer grout lines and a sleeker look, but smaller tiles offer a better grip.
Remember, the right tile can turn your bathroom into a beautiful haven. So, take your time, play with designs, and pick tiles that reflect your style.
7. Bamboo
Bamboo flooring is an offbeat, sustainable replacement for traditional bathroom floors. It’s eco-friendly and more resistant to water damage than traditional hardwood. Plus, bamboo can give your space a fresh, natural look. It’s like bringing a piece of the outdoors inside.
Although bamboo is tough, it’s not invincible. It’s important to keep water from pooling on the floor. You can also sand and refinish bamboo bathroom floors if they get too scratched up or damaged.
8. Ceramic Tile Bathroom Flooring
Ceramic tile is a classic choice for bathroom floors. It is impervious to moisture, stands up to stains, and won’t absorb odors. What’s more, these tiles come in a wide range of colors and designs for a sleek, luxurious look.
You can choose from almost any installation pattern and incorporate trim pieces, borders, or inlays to enhance decorative elements. Mix and match colors and sizes for visual interest or repeat the same style on your bathroom walls/countertops- the possibilities are endless!
Installing ceramic tiles takes skill and experience. You must get it right to prevent water from seeping underneath. Use a high-quality adhesive and grout, or hire a pro if you’re not a DIY enthusiast.
As for cleaning ceramic tiles, do not use harsh chemicals. A mild soap and gentle mop will work wonders for your floor.
9. Concrete
Concrete isn’t just for sidewalks anymore- it’s making waves in modern bathroom design, especially if you prefer an industrial aesthetic. Besides the traditional poured concrete option, you can opt for dyed, stained, and textured concrete floors for more pizzazz.
Concrete flooring is incredibly low-maintenance, other than some periodic sealing to avoid stains. But it can get slippery when wet- something to think about for a bathroom.
Overall, concrete is simple, easy to clean, and water-resistant. On the flip side, it’s hard, cold, and a slip hazard. It’s a mix of great qualities and some tricky bits. Think about what matters most to you in a bathroom floor to decide if concrete is the way to go.
Conclusion
There you have it- a journey through some of the best flooring options for your bathroom. But wait, there’s more! This is just Part 1 of our deep dive into bathroom flooring. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore even more exciting options, complete with their unique pros and cons.
Ready to transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat? Contact OMG Kitchen & Bath, your trusted bathroom remodeling experts! With our expertise and attention to detail, we’ll create the bathroom of your dreams. Schedule a consultation today!
