Choosing the right flooring for your bathroom is important for both how it looks and how it holds up to moisture. Bathrooms are often damp places, so you need flooring that can handle water while still looking great. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the best flooring options for your bathroom, explaining the key features of each to help you make the right choice for your home.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are two of the most popular choices for bathroom floors. They are tough, water-resistant, and come in loads of different styles, from modern to classic. Porcelain is a bit stronger and more resistant to water than ceramic, making it ideal for bathrooms.
Why They’re a Good Choice:
They’re great for wet areas. Porcelain, in particular, is fantastic at handling water, so it won’t get damaged from splashes or spills.
They’re long-lasting. Both ceramic and porcelain tiles are hard-wearing, so they won’t scratch or dent easily.
It’s a stylish choice. Available in a huge variety of colours, patterns, and textures, so you can create any look you want.
They’re easy to clean. A quick mop or wipe keeps them looking fresh, with very little maintenance needed.
Things to Keep in Mind:
The can be cold underfoot. Tiles can feel cold, especially in the winter. Underfloor heating can solve this if it’s an issue for you.
They will create a hard surface. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are solid and can be uncomfortable to stand on for long periods, and dropped items are more likely to break.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT)
Luxury vinyl flooring (LVT) has become very popular for bathrooms. It’s designed to look like natural materials like wood or stone but is much more practical in a bathroom. It’s completely waterproof and durable, making it a great option if you want both style and functionality.
Why It’s a Good Option:
It’s waterproof. LVT is 100% waterproof, so it’s perfect for a bathroom where water is a concern.
It’s durable. It handles everyday wear and tear well, so it’ll stay looking good for years.
You can choose from a range of realistic designs: LVT can look just like wood or stone, so you get the high-end look without the downsides of natural materials.
It’s super-comfortable underfoot. It feels softer and warmer to walk on than tiles, which makes it more comfortable, especially in colder weather.
It’s also low maintenance. It’s easy to clean and doesn’t require much upkeep.
Things to Consider:
It does cost more than basic vinyl. While cheaper than natural materials like stone, LVT can be pricier than standard vinyl.
It’s better to have it installed professionally. While easier to install than tiles, some people prefer to have it fitted professionally.
Vinyl Flooring (Best for a Tight Budget)
If you’re after a budget-friendly option, standard vinyl flooring could be the answer. Vinyl has been a go-to choice for bathrooms for years because of its affordability and practicality. Available in sheets or tiles, it can handle moisture and comes in various styles.
Why It’s Worth Considering:
It’s affordable. Vinyl is one of the most cost effective flooring options available, making it great for anyone on a budget.
It’s water-resistant. Vinyl can handle water spills and dampness without damage, so it’s suitable for bathrooms.
It’s easy to install. Vinyl sheets or tiles are easy to install, and you might even be able to do it yourself.
It comes in a variety of designs: There’s a choice to fit every style.
Things to Keep in Mind:
It’s less durable than LVT. Standard vinyl is not as hard-wearing as luxury vinyl, so it may show signs of wear and tear more quickly.
It can look less premium. While it’s functional, it may not offer the same high-end look as tiles or LVT.
Natural Stone Flooring
If you’re looking for a premium, high-end look, natural stone flooring could be the perfect choice. Marble, slate, and limestone are popular for bathrooms. Stone floors offer a unique, timeless style that can make your bathroom feel more luxurious.
What’s Great About It:
It’s luxurious look: Stone gives your bathroom a premium, elegant feel.
It’s Durability. Stone is very hard-wearing, and with the right care, it can last for many years.
It’s unique styles. Each piece of stone is different, so your bathroom will have a one-of-a-kind look.
It adds value. High-quality stone floors can increase the value of your home.
Things to Think About:
It will need regular care. Stone needs sealing regularly to protect it from water and stains.
It can be cold and hard underfoot. Stone can feel cold and hard, but underfloor heating can help with this.
It’s costly. Natural stone is one of the more expensive options, in both material costs and installation
Engineered Wood Flooring – Is It a Good Idea for Bathrooms?
Engineered wood is made from a real wood layer on top of a plywood or composite base, making it more stable and moisture-resistant than solid wood. While wood flooring can add warmth and style to a room, using it in bathrooms comes with risks due to the high levels of moisture.
Benefits:
It provides a aarm and natural look. Wood creates a cosy, warm feeling that makes your bathroom feel inviting.
It handles moisture better than solid wood. Engineered wood is more stable in humid conditions than solid wood, though it’s still not fully waterproof.
It comes in a range of styles. Available in various wood types and finishes to suit your taste.
Important to Know:
It’s not fully waterproof. Even engineered wood isn’t fully waterproof, so if it gets soaked, it can swell or warp.
Extra care will be needed. You’ll need to wipe up spills quickly to prevent damage, and bathrooms with a lot of water exposure might not be ideal for wood flooring.
It’s more expensive than vinyl. Wood flooring tends to be more expensive than other bathroom options like vinyl or tile.
Verdict on Wood in Bathrooms:
While engineered wood can work in bathrooms with low moisture levels and careful maintenance, it’s generally not the best choice for high-use or very wet bathrooms. You’ll get the look of wood with fewer risks using luxury vinyl or tile.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to bathroom flooring, you’ve got lots of options to suit your style, needs, and budget. If you’re looking for a durable, water-resistant option, ceramic or porcelain tiles are a solid choice. Luxury vinyl (LVT) gives you style and practicality with a bit of comfort, while standard vinyl offers an affordable, no-fuss solution. For those seeking a touch of luxury, natural stone or engineered wood can elevate your bathroom, though wood might require extra care.
Think about how you use your bathroom and what your priorities are, whether it’s budget, style, or ease of maintenance, to find the best flooring for your home.
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