What to Know When Choosing Bathroom Flooring
When considering updating an old bathroom or even building a new one, the question of the flooring is paramount. Overall, most people prefer a floor which is not only low maintenance but hygienic, too. This is where the Custom Kitchen & Bath Company can help. Below are a few flooring options for your consideration.
Porcelain and ceramic tile
The most popular option when it comes to bathroom flooring is ceramic tile. When installed correctly, tiles can create a smooth and solid surface that is easy to clean and will look good for years to come. While some bathroom flooring does require a lot of maintenance, ceramic needs nothing more than a quick cleaning with the same cleansers you use for kitchen tiles. And even though the installation process can be involved, the end result is well worth all the effort.
Homeowners are particularly fond of porcelain and ceramic tiles for their bathroom floors due to their versatility and durability. Porcelain tiles are harder, denser, tougher, and less porous. On the downside, they are more expensive than ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are more affordable because they are less refined but are also less durable.
Pros and cons of tile flooring
Pros:
Easy to maintain: Tile floorings are normally coated with liquid glass which protects them from stains
Chemical and heat resistant: Tiles made of porcelain and ceramic do not corrode when exposed to chemical agents or extreme temperatures
Diverse colors and styles: Tiles are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, sizes, styles, and textures to fit most decor
Durable: Porcelain and ceramic tiles are rather long-lasting. And water-resistant
Cons:
Hard surface: This type of flooring can be uncomfortable to stand on for long periods
Professional installation is required: Even slightly uneven tiles can result in breakage, so the installer needs to be skilled and knowledgeable
Cold: This type of floor gets cold during colder months
Grout lines: It’s impossible to prevent grout lines entirely. Tiles need some maintenance to keep grout lines clean and mold-free
Laminate Flooring
A close runner-up is laminated tiles. Very much like their ceramic counterparts, it is possible to create a floor that is smooth, watertight, and does not need any effort to keep it clean. Unlike other floorings, laminated tiles are an economical option.
Since its inception, laminate flooring has undergone tremendous improvements. Today, it is difficult to tell hardwood and laminate flooring apart. There are also laminate flooring styles that resemble natural stone, vinyl, and even tiles.
Pros and cons of water-resistant laminate floors
Pros:
Easy to install: Laminate flooring is lightweight, so it’s easier to install
Waterproof: Laminate flooring is water-resistant, especially when silicone-sealed around tubs and toilets
Affordability: Laminate flooring is an affordable alternative to hardwood and other flooring types
Durability: Waterproof laminate is long-lasting and practical for a high-traffic bathroom
Cons:
Difficult to repair: While it is durable, laminate flooring has to be replaced when damaged
Less versatile: As it is a relatively newer material, there are fewer options when it comes to design and style as compared to other flooring types
Appearance: While laminate may mimic natural stone or hardwood, it can look less realistic up close
Choosing the most suitable bathroom flooring can be daunting. You want your bathroom flooring to complement the rest of the home yet still withstand high moisture levels, humidity, and heavy foot traffic. The sheer number of bathroom floor designs, colors, textures, and material types further complicates the process. But we are here to help. If you’d like to talk about the options available to you and what makes the most sense for the space you want to be remodeled, we offer a free consultation.