Best Flooring Options for Bathroom

6 Best Flooring Options For A Bathroom In 2021

Bathroom flooring options are available in numerous styles and materials that homeowners can choose from, which may make the selection process more difficult. These flooring types are usually easy to maintain and durable, making them conducive for extra moisture and frequent use of the bathrooms. Common options you can consider are ceramic or porcelain tiles, waterproof laminate, and water-resistant core vinyl. These materials can adopt any look ranging from stone to wood, which makes it easier for you to try out various bathroom flooring ideas or get any finish you prefer in the bathroom.

Your bathroom renovation contractor can help you choose an ideal flooring type according to its longevity and your preference. You can also do your research to determine the benefits and demerits of the bathroom floor tiles before picking one for your bathroom. Below are some of the water-resistance options to explore as you compare them to your specific needs.

Bathroom Flooring Ideas That Will Make Your Bathroom Awesome

1. Waterproof Vinyl Bathroom Flooring
   Waterproof vinyl flooring comes in two types: Stone Plastic Composite and Wood Plastic Composite, and they are both popular in the latest bathroom trends. Both vinyl flooring types are made with waterproof layers that make them very durable. They have the same appearance, and they can also mimic natural flooring materials like stone and wood. Whether you want distressed wood, marble, or large tile finishes, waterproof vinyl plank flooring will help you achieve it.The main difference between these bathroom flooring options is their construction, but you can get luxurious results regardless of the one you select. The making of SPC makes it a better option for installation over uneven subfloors.
2. Ceramic and Porcelain Bathroom Tile
   Ceramic and porcelain tiles are some of the oldest bathroom flooring materials, and they are continuing to trend. Their affordability, water resistance, and easy to clean nature are the reasons why they continue to be in-style despite the availability of many other flooring options.The main difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles is in their water absorption capacities. Porcelain is also sometimes classified as a ceramic tile, but they are less ideal for powder rooms and better for bathrooms where a lot of water is used.The tiles can be used to implement several bathroom flooring ideas because they are available in different sizes, styles, and shapes.
3. Water Resistant Laminate Bathroom Flooring
   Laminate flooring was not a popular replacement for hardwood floors until recently when its use as an ideal bathroom flooring option increased. Initially, laminate flooring was not water-resistant, which is why it was considered a low-quality material for bathrooms. However, water-resistant laminate flooring brands have increased, making sure these flooring materials can withstand the moisture in bathrooms and basements. These are available in multiple textures and styles, which are perfect for trending interior designs.
4. Rigid Core Engineered Wood Bathroom Flooring
   The process of choosing bathroom flooring materials is slightly different from choosing for other parts of the house. It can still be an attractive and durable material, but water resistance should be the main priority. That is one of the reasons why most homeowners cannot have hardwood floors in the bathroom. The traditional look, natural beauty, versatility, and value of these materials make them perfect for every other room in a house, but their permeability makes them less suitable for bathroom installations. Installing them is also challenging and will require the help of a qualified contractor.Rigid core engineered wood is one of the best alternatives that can give you peace of mind in your bathroom. It takes away the worries associated with water spillage and possible flooding in the bathroom.
5. Cork Flooring for Bathroom
   If you are conscious of the environment and how your actions impact it, cork flooring is the perfect option. It is taken from the bark of an oak tree without cutting down the tree, which makes it a recurring and 100% natural product. The unique style it brings and its ability to degenerate completely after its use makes it a perfect choice for homes.Cork flooring tiles are also resistant to mould and mildew, which means you will not have to worry about allergic reactions when you install them. Its moisture resistance nature is one of the reasons why cork flooring in the bathroom is an increasing trend. It can also be used as a subfloor with a carpet on top, thanks to its natural softness, though this is not a good option for bathrooms.
6. Natural Stone Bathroom Flooring
   For the longest time, natural stone in a bathroom has been a symbol of luxury, indicating the elite status. The belief that only the wealthiest could afford natural stones began a long time ago when cutting and moving the stones was done manually. The use of modern machinery and technology has made these materials more affordable, but the flooring materials are still associated with splendour.Some of the common stones used in homes are granite, limestone, sandstone, marble, and travertine. You must carefully choose the bathroom flooring you install from these choices to ensure it can handle the moisture and traffic in the bathroom. Consider the features of each stone and make sure you can handle the maintenance routines attached to it.

What Makes WPC And SPC Bathroom Vinyl Flooring Waterproof?

Both WPC and SPC waterproof vinyl flooring are made with multiple layers that make them resistant to moisture. The layers in WPC are mainly a combination of wood flour and plastic, whereas SPC mostly consists of plastic and stone. Regardless of these differences, both flooring types have the wear layer, printed vinyl layer, waterproof layer, and an underlayment layer.

• Wear Layer – it protects from wear and tear that could arise from foot traffic.
• Printed Vinyl Layer – is responsible for the imitation of other flooring materials.
• Waterproof Core – is the center of the vinyl that ensures the flooring does not absorb water and other fluids.
• Backing Layer – It ensures the floor remains perfect even when the subfloor is uneven, which helps you avoid expensive repairs in levelling the floor.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

Easy Renovation

Waterproof vinyl flooring will not only add an appealing look to your bathroom but also have lots of other benefits. You will never go wrong with this bathroom tile. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of waterproof vinyl bathroom flooring.

Picking Materials For a Bathroom Expansion

Waterproof Vinyl Bathroom Flooring – Advantages

• Ultra Durable
• Easy to Clean
• Easy for DIY
• Completely Waterproof
• Affordable

Waterproof Vinyl Bathroom Flooring – Disadvantages

• Expensive

What Are Another 4 Bathroom Flooring Ideas

Fortunately, there are other bathroom flooring ideas to choose from. Based on your budget and requirements, you can now select the best bathroom floor for your new bathroom.

4 Bathroom Flooring Ideas To Consider :

1. Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
2. Water Resistant Laminate Flooring
3. Rigid Core Engineered Wood Bathroom Flooring
4. Cork Flooring for Bathroom

Ceramic And Porcelain Bathroom Tile

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 Bathroom Flooring

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.

Rigid Core Engineered Wood Bathroom Flooring

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 For Bathroom

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.

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

Natural Stone Bathroom Flooring

Before going for natural stone bathroom flooring, it is better to understand the advantages and disadvantages of this particular bathroom tile.

Natural Stone Bathroom Flooring Advantages:

• Unique – Every stone is mined from the earth in its unique form. They retain that uniqueness during and after processing, making the floors and surfaces they are applied on extremely amazing also.
• Brings an Earthy Element to a Bathroom – Natural stones are mined on mountains, unlike other materials. Their connection to the earth means they serve as a link between the bathroom and any other surface they are applied on and nature.
• Eco-friendly – Stone materials are pure, which means they do not pollute the environment or contribute to the detriment of the ecosystem.

Natural Stone Bathroom Flooring Disadvantages:

• Expensive – The high cost of natural stone is the reason most people do not use it. The price range differs slightly among the various stones, but in most cases, you will spend between $100 and $300 per sq. ft. The installation cost will differ depending on the contractor you hire, but the above range should be enough for the material and labour.
• Stone is Cold – Natural stone may look great, but walking on it barefoot can be a very unpleasant experience. Investing in radiant heating can keep them warm, but that comes with additional costs.
• Slippery – Stone surfaces are slippery, especially after going through the processing method. The ones used in bathrooms also require sealing, which makes them even more slippery.
• Brittle – Contrary to popular belief, the stone is less strong compared to ceramic tiles. They have less flexibility and ability to expand, which increases their chances of cracking.
• May require structural adaptations – Stone materials are very heavy, which makes installation challenging.
  Natural Stone is Porous – Ceramic or porcelain tiles that are glazed are less permeable than stone materials.
• Difficult to Maintain – Cleaning the stone with regular cleaning products is not enough to keep them in perfect condition. The longer you do that, the more they will become discoloured.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Various Bathroom Flooring Ideas

Choose The Right Bathroom Flooring That Will Compliment Your Bathroom From Every Aspect

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Ceramic And Porcelain Bathroom Tile

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 And Disadvantages Of Water Resistant Laminate Bathroom Flooring

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 And Disadvantages Rigid Core Engineered Wood Bathroom Flooring

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 And Disadvantages Of Cork Flooring For Bathroom

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.

Bathroom Flooring Ideas and Types

Types of Waterproof Vinyl Flooring. Knowing the available types of bathroom flooring options to explore when looking for a suitable one can reduce the time you spend searching and ensure you make a valuable choice. There are only two types of bathroom vinyl flooring, with their main difference being in the layouts. Pick one depending on whether you want one that mimics stone tiles or artificial wood finishes.

Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring. Waterproof vinyl plank flooring is made with long planks that look like natural wood. Although it is an artificial wood flooring, it gives the same finishes as real wood. They can be made in any texture and colour and are very durable. If you like the look of wood but don’t have the money for it, vinyl planks are the solution.

Waterproof Vinyl Tile Flooring. The other common type of vinyl flooring is tile. They are mostly used by people who like stone finishes but cannot afford them. Vinyl tile flooring can be made into different textures and can mimic various patterns for any bathroom décor style. Like planks, they are easy to clean and maintain and are long-lasting.

Different Types of Floor Tiles. The differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles can be found in their construction and how they look. While porcelain is nonporous, tougher, and has more colour options, ceramic tiles are softer, have basic colours like red only, and unglazed ones are permeable to water. However, changing bathroom flooring trends have pushed tile manufacturers to keep up by making many other different types of tiles.

Ceramic and Porcelain Plank. Porcelain and ceramic planks are similar to vinyl planks because they can adopt stone and wood flooring textures. The porcelain tiles in plank form have a more realistic design, making them a better choice for wood flooring than ceramic planks.

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile. 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.

Ultra-Thin Gauged Floor Tiles. Ultra-thin floor tiles are increasingly becoming popular because of their style, but they are a little challenging to install. The large slabs are difficult to handle and will often require the expertise of a professional. On the other hand, being very thin makes them easy and cheaper to transport, which helps reduce the costs. These tiles are also available as panels and are ideal for outdoor floors.

Types of Rigid Core Engineered Wood Bathroom Flooring. Rigid core flooring is a waterproof material that can withstand traffic, scratches from pets and kids, and water spillage. The material was made with these factors as priorities, making it extremely resistant to indents and scratches. The flooring is also easy to install and will not require professional skills in most cases. It can float overtop subfloors, reducing the installation time.

Wood Polymer Composite (WPC). WPC was the first rigid core flooring made to counter the shortcomings of hardwood flooring. It has a thicker core that makes it more comfortable. The inner part is also aerated, but that can be a problem because it makes it susceptible to dents. The same does not apply to other types of rigid core.

Solid Polymer Composite. SPC is a more superior type of rigid flooring. It has the same advantages as wood polymer composite in addition to being extremely long-lasting. Its denser and thicker core also makes it more resistant to scratches and dents. It does not get stained or dint, even from a heavy object or any kind of impact. However, SPC requires a perfectly levelled subfloor for a smooth installation and lasting results. Without that, it will become less comfortable, and the wood panels will be damaged.

What is The Best Floor For a Bathroom?

Before choosing a bathroom flooring material, consider several factors such as the level of porosity, the kind of maintenance it will require, and the purchase cost. The wide range of options available can be confusing, which is why you should get professional assistance. Easy Reno has the right bathroom renovation contractors to help you make the right choice based on your needs and several other considerations. We also have numerous bathroom flooring ideas that can inspire you to choose the perfect design to make you proud for years. Contact us today for a consultation if you need help with the selection or installation of any type of flooring material.