Bathroom Flooring Choices for Your Bathroom Renovation

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010 at 9:35 am

If you are about to embark on a bathroom flooring project, it is important to avoid being tempted into a decision based on the look of it rather than choosing the flooring that can stand up to the demands made of it. The right flooring will look great, be durable and feel fabulous underfoot. I think the bathroom is the easiest place to decide on flooring and it will usually be the least expensive flooring project in the house because it is often one of the smallest rooms in the house. Here’s a summary of the different kinds of material used for bathroom flooring featured on the HGTV website.

TILE

Ceramic is used most in bathrooms and the reason why is because it is the most water resistant of the flooring materials. It’s usually the least expensive too. There are some complaints about it, such as ‘slippery when wet’ or ‘cold to the bare feet’ or even ‘difficult to maintain.’ These objections are easily overcome with solutions like radiant heat, and textured tile to take away the slippery effect, also grout can be sealed for easy cleaning. Other tiles like travertine, porcelain, glass and granite are more expensive than ceramic, but can make the bathroom more dynamic looking.

WOOD

Hardwood flooring can be a wonderful option, providing visual warmth and a comfortable feeling underfoot. It must be cared for properly, and with a water-based poly finish, the occasional splash or drip will do no harm. However, water must not sit on the floor for any length of time, or serious damage will be caused. Pick up those wet towels.

GREEN

Bamboo and cork flooring are “green” alternatives to a wood floor. Like wood, they must be cared for and they will endure. If you select bamboo for its eco-friendly qualities, be sure the factory finish is formaldehyde free. Cork provides wonderful sound control; something to consider if the goal is to create a quiet retreat.

LAMINATE

Laminate treated with water repellent is a great way to create the look of a wood floor, and maintain the floor over the years at the same time. Laminate can look amazingly like real wood, but it will not be as soft and the sound will be louder as a result.

VINYL

For a low-budget bathroom flooring project, vinyl is a safe bet. Just be aware that vinyl can curl at the edges over time. Also, the peel-and-stick vinyl tiles are not recommended for baths because water can seep between the tiles and damage the sub floor.