Best Flooring Options for Bathroom

Unlike before, when these tiles were only available in square shapes, now they can be found in multiple forms and textures. They are ideal for those looking for stone finishes, with the larger tiles having the ability to make smaller spaces appear larger. They are also easy to clean and maintain.

Water-resistant laminate is made with several layers that contribute differently to its durability and functionality. Manufacturers of these materials have gotten better at making them suitable for modern needs by not only making them durable but also making sure they can suit different design preferences.

Various rigid core flooring may have some slight differences, but their construction is very similar. It gives the engineered vinyl floor stability and sturdiness under the feet. It also makes the planks solid and less pliable. Whether you choose WPC, SPC, or hybrid rigid core flooring, it will have the following layers:

• Wear layer.
• Vinyl top coat.
• Rigid core.
• Attached underlayment.

Cork flooring is fit for floating installation that does not require the use of nails or any adhesives. Every manufacturer may choose a different way to construct cork floors, but most of them will have the following layers.

Cork Underlayment – is a low-density component that gives the material flexibility and provides acoustic insulation.
Stabilizing Core – is the layer that usually gets the most attention because it contributes largely to the durability and stability of the cork flooring.
Cork Core – is meant to provide extra insulation to the materials.
Cork Bark Veneer or Top Layer – is the visible upper part.
Wear Surface – can be applied during the manufacturing of the flooring in the factories or at the installation site.

Advantages:

• Waterproof – Both ceramic and porcelain tiles have high water resistance, with the latter having an absorption rate of less than 0.5%.
• Durable  – These tiles can be installed in areas with high traffic, and they will not peel or scuff.
• Stain-resistant– The waterproof layer also makes the tiles stain-resistant.
• Easy to Clean – A wet mop is enough to keep the tiles in perfect condition.
• Trendy – Tiles can look like any other natural flooring material in various textures. The trends can last for years.

Disadvantages:

• Slippery – Tiles can get slippery when wet, especially with soapy water.
• Cold – Tiles can be very uncomfortable to walk or stand on because they get very cold and are hard.
• Hard to Install – Some styles and patterns are very difficult to work with because they may require precise cutting, which means you will have to hire a professional to help you.

Advantages:

• DIY Friendly – Laminate flooring is easy to use and will not require professional expertise most of the time, thanks to its interlocking design. If you are a DIY person, this flooring is perfect.
• Mimic Stone and Tile – Laminate flooring can be made into a variety of patterns, including stone and tile designs. Different textures can also be embossed on them to give them a more realistic outlook.
• Affordable – Apart from the lower purchase and installation costs, these materials are also easy to maintain. No special cleaning equipment is necessary for these flooring options.

Disadvantages:

• Can Collect Static  – Laminate floors can give you a shock because of the static electricity. In the worst cases, it can interfere with electronic devices.

• Water-damaged Laminate Flooring Cannot Be Repaired – Replacing the laminate flooring is easy, but repairing them is not. You cannot sand them down or refinish them like you would solid hardwood. The only alternative will be to remove the damaged planks or tiles and install new ones.

Advantages

• 100% Waterproof – The waterproof nature of rigid core flooring materials is their main selling point.
• Appearance – The planks are available in various types of textures, colours, and styles, which mimic other materials like stone and solid hardwood.
• Perfect For Imperfect Subfloors – can be installed on uneven subfloors or other existing surfaces.
• Easy To Install – rigid core flooring has a groove and tongue system that allows them to interlock and float over other surfaces.
• Easy to Maintain.
• Durable.
• Affordable.
• Provide Extra Warmth – has a denser core that provides more sturdiness and cushioning as you walk on it.
• Realistic Wood and Stone Looks – materials being manufactured now have more realistic patterns than ever before.
• No Expansion. 

Disadvantages:

• Sturdy – Most manufacturers focus on sturdiness rather than comfort when constructing these materials.
• Price – Some of the rigid core products like the SPC are a bit more expensive than other engineered wood materials.

Advantages

• Natural Resistance to Moisture – Cork flooring has the natural ability to withstand moisture due to some of its properties.

• Easily Replaced if Damaged – Installing cork flooring is easy and can be done without professional help.
• Resists the Growth of Mold and Mildew – Cork has antimicrobial properties to prevent the growth of mould and other fungi or pests.
• Natural Appearance – Cork flooring has a natural aesthetic appeal that adds elegance to any bathroom style, whether traditional or modern.
• Keeps the Warmth – The floors are not just comfortable to step on; they also retain warmth, serving as natural insulation.

Disadvantages

• Can Cause Cracking – If the floor gets too wet, it can warp or crack.
• The Potential for Loosened Adhesive – In case water penetrates through the seams and reaches under the tiles, the adhesive will become loose.
• Humidity – High humidity causes the tiles to expand and contract, which results in cracking or popping up.
• Difficult to Refinish in Small Bathrooms – The machinery required for the installation of cork flooring cannot fit small bathrooms, making installation in such spaces more challenging.