Improving the look, feel and convenience of your bathroom is more than just replacing your existing suite with a shiny new one and accessorising with matching props, choosing the right flooring for your bathroom will also enhance the style and practicality of the space. Whether you are upgrading a family bathroom, wet room or en-suite, making a few adjustments or starting from scratch, your choice of flooring is essential and is also a matter of safety.
Bathrooms are after all notoriously steamy, so your search for suitable flooring should be taken seriously. Read on to discover the flooring options that should Breaking Headlines be celebrated and avoided in the bathroom so you can continue your refurbishment and enjoy your bathroom for years to come.
Solid wood or laminate?
Wood flooring is a popular choice in the bathroom, however depending on the quality of the flooring chosen, this flooring type may not withstand the continuous dampness of the average bathroom environment. If used, hard or solid wood floors should be fitted using the tongue and groove technique to ensure there is less chance of water seeping underneath the floor. Laminate flooring is also unsuitable and over time the usual splashes created at bath time will make laminate flooring rise and part, and harder wood alternatives to become swollen and warped.
The problem with carpet
Popular in the 60s and 70s, the installation of carpet in the bathroom is now a big no-no. Whilst carpet is warm and comfortable, providing a soft feel underfoot when exiting the shower or bath tub, with continued exposure to water, the damp will cause the most heavy duty carpet to rot and smell. Carpets in the bathroom are also particularly difficult to clean, and will prevent you from achieving that desired low maintenance finish.
Can stone flooring be affordable?
Stone flooring can be quite expensive, however, the durability and naturally occurring waterproof qualities make it a great choice for bathrooms. Slate, limestone and granite add the ultimate luxurious touch to bathrooms of all shapes and sizes, however, before use all stone flooring must be sealed. Polished stone, such as marble, should be avoided however as this can be become slippery when wet. With prices starting from around £25 per square metre, the addition of stone flooring may put a dent in your budget.
What type of tile is suitable for the bathroom?
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are the go-to flooring type for both bathrooms and kitchens, and for good reason. This durable and low maintenance option unlocks a number of benefits. As well as being available in a range of different designs, sizes and styles, tiles can also be combined with underfloor heating for an opulent and comfortable finish. The tiled theme can also continue on the walls for a seamless and stylish look.
Wood, vinyl and rubber tiles are also suitable for bathrooms. Whilst real wood isn’t great in bathrooms, these engineered tiles provide the ultimate solution. In addition to this, rubber and vinyl tiles are waterproof, soft to the touch and available in a variety of finishes so you are certain to find something to suit your taste and budget. For more information on the types of bathroom flooring visit EKCO.
