Around 37% of homeowners redid at least some of their flooring in the last year. Getting new flooring can completely change the look and function of a room. It's one of those high-impact projects that makes your jaw drop when you see the finished product.
That is if you pick the right materials. Just as it can elevate and make a room shine, it can also have the opposite effect and ruin the whole vibe. And that's not even taking into account the practicality of the material you choose either. Choosing the right type of flooring will make all the difference in the end result.
Nowhere is this more true than in a bathroom. Don't worry, we're here to help you choose the best flooring for bathrooms. Follow our guide to finding just the right fit for your space.
Laminate Flooring in Bathrooms
One of the most popular choices for flooring throughout a home is laminate flooring, it's also a great choice for bathrooms specifically.
Laminate flooring has a particleboard base with basically a photograph of the wood or stone grain pasted on top. After those pieces are combined they are then covered with a clear sealant layer. This layer is the crucial piece to making them a good option for heavy traffic areas or those with water use.
The top layer of laminate makes them extremely durable and sturdy. It takes a lot to wear them down so those homes with large families or small kids generally enjoy this flooring.
There are several options you can choose from for what you want your laminate to look like (cherry, oak, pine, or even some stones for example). The variety is great but sometimes homeowners don't feel the laminate is convincing enough to be considered a look-alike. The main downside of laminate is that it looks like laminate and some homeowners don't like that specific look.
Hardwood Flooring in Bathrooms
For those who don't enjoy the look of laminate, the next option would seem to be hardwood floors. They are beautiful and timeless.
While they tick all of the look boxes, they aren't really a great fit for bathrooms from a functional standpoint.
True hardwood flooring doesn't have a protective layer on top of it. This is what gives it that natural look but it also leaves it vulnerable as well. Wood is porous and so anything that is spilled on it will soak in deep.
In a bathroom where there is always going to be moisture to varying degrees, this kind of porous material can be a disaster. Too much water soaked in and the planks will begin to buckle and change shape. They can discolor and, worst of all, begin to mold. Hardwood without the protective barrier is not a good choice for the bathroom, save it for the living room!
Tile Flooring in Bathrooms
Tile in a bathroom is so classic. For decades homeowners have gone back to this material for all of their bathroom needs. Even when new options begin to pop up and gain popularity, tile is always there. A tried and true favorite.
It's one of the best bathroom floors because it's so waterproof and durable.
Most tile is made out of porcelain or ceramic materials. These are strong and take a lot to chip, crack, or break. They're also generally finished off with a topcoat that only adds to that strength. This topcoat also adds to their waterproof quality.
A huge benefit of using tile in your bathroom is that you can completely customize the look. The options for size, color, shape, and finish are almost endless. And that's why it's such a popular choice!
Luxury Vinyl Flooring in Bathrooms
If you're looking for a less expensive option when redoing your bathroom flooring but still want that high-end, natural look luxury vinyl flooring may be your answer.
Luxury vinyl flooring is made up of multiple layers of a type of plastic combined together to form the solid sheet.
It's often compared to laminate because they have similar qualities and installation methods. But one major difference is that the design of the planks aren't printed on and instead are engrained. This helps them look more realistic and believable.
When you choose vinyl flooring you can also choose from a wide variety of design styles as well. They come in planks like wood flooring or different shapes like tiles. The option to customize the look along with the functionality is the main reason vinyl has become more and more popular.
Natural Stone Flooring in Bathrooms
When budget isn't an issue and you're going for a very specific vision, natural stone is a great choice.
There are several different choices for natural stones you can use in a bathroom; granite, limestone, marble, or slate are popular options. They look expensive and fancy when used in any space.
This type of material is one of the most durable options you can choose from on the market. It's almost indestructible as far as chips and dents go. As long as you take care of it, this flooring will last for years to come and look great too!
The only thing you have to be careful of is some natural stones require very specific maintenance steps, so you have to make sure you know what to do before you make your decision.
Find the Best Flooring for Bathrooms
Most homeowners want their space to reflect their style and still make them feel comfortable. They want both the form and the function, especially for bigger ticket items like flooring.
This is why it's so important to take the time to find the best flooring for bathrooms before diving into a renovation project. Choosing the wrong type can end up costing you a lot of time, effort, and money in the end. Take a few extra steps and consult with a professional to get the right fit.
We're here to help! If you're interested in viewing some of your flooring options, contact us today!
