When it comes to bathroom renovations, there are many decisions to make. Deciding on the right style and colour you want is a big one. That’s why you’ll want to take extra care when deciding which flooring to use. Are you looking for a more spa-like feeling with lighter tones or a darker colour for a more high-end look? In this guide, we will review the pros and cons of different bathroom flooring ideas for you to install during your bathroom renovations so you can make the best choice for your home.
Ceramic Tiles
A popular choice for their practicality and simplicity in bathrooms, ceramic tiles are a go-to for many homeowners upgrading their bathrooms. This material is available in various colours and textures and can blend well with multiple design styles.
Pros
Ceramic tiles take our top spot for bathroom flooring for multiple reasons. Not only do they look great, but they are also ideal for bathrooms due to their long list of attractive features.
- Water-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Reasonable cost
Cons
While ceramic tiles are an excellent option for bathrooms, they have some drawbacks.
- The construction of ceramic tiles makes them slightly brittle, meaning dropping a heavy object on them could result in cracks.
- Ceramic tiles are naturally cold, which can get quite chilly without a mat or underfloor heating.
- Lastly, ceramic tile is applied using grout, which needs specialty routine cleaning to prevent staining.
Vinyl Flooring
The next option on our list is vinyl flooring. Homeowners tend to lean toward this material due to its cost, longevity, and ability to resemble high-end flooring options, like ceramic tile.
Pros
Vinyl flooring has many positive features. It is stylish and affordable, making it a win-win option for your bathroom and wallet.
- Moisture-resistant
- Comfortable under-foot feeling
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
Cons
Vinyl has some great features, but those come with a few additional factors to keep in mind.
- Vinyl can be damaged or ripped due to heavy objects.
- Poor-quality vinyl can become discoloured by the sun, changing its overall appearance.
- This might not be the best choice for eco-conscious homeowners, as vinyl is non-biodegradable.
Porcelain Tiles
One of the most durable and luxurious options for bathroom flooring, porcelain tiles are a staple among design-centric homeowners. This option is renowned for its beauty, durability, and many design options.
Pros
Along with our previous two tile options, porcelain tiles are water-resistant, luxurious, and come in numerous textures.
- Can accommodate in-floor heating.
- Designed to last a lifetime—and then some!
- Increased slip resistance depending on the selected texture.
Cons
Although one of the most luxurious choices for homeowners, porcelain has its drawbacks.
- This material has the highest cost per square foot of all the different bathroom flooring options.
- This tile can be difficult to install in some cases due to its thickness, which is challenging to cut and shape precisely.
- Similar to ceramic tiles, this material also requires grout, meaning it will need routine deep cleaning to prevent discolouration.
Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood is a trademark for any home’s living area or dining room. However, this material has also started to make its way outside of these spaces. Praised for its unique patterns and colour schemes, more homeowners are considering hardwood for their bathroom renovations.
If you had to do a double-take when you saw this flooring on our list, we don’t blame you. However, you might be surprised to learn that engineered hardwood is a quality alternative to tile and vinyl that can withstand humidity fluctuations in bathrooms quite well.
Pros
Some homeowners love the look of hardwood. The natural tones, the laying pattern, and the warmth it adds to a room, even a bathroom, are unmatched.
- Unique look compared to other options.
- Creates a warmer and more comfortable feel underfoot.
- When installed correctly, it can last for many years.
Cons
While it might be beautiful, hardwood as a bathroom floor also needs a lot of love.
- Hardwood can warp if left wet for a prolonged time.
- Additional costs might be associated with certain finishes to ensure moisture resistance.
- Hardwood must be installed in an area with excellent ventilation or a window.
Best Flooring Options
Now that we’ve examined four types of flooring and their pros and cons, you might still be left wondering: What is the best flooring for bathrooms? There is no right or wrong answer. It’s all about your preferences and aesthetics.
From cost-conscious ceramic to sleek and easy-to-install vinyl to luxurious porcelain and cozy hardwood floors, our team of experts at Tremblay Renovation can help narrow down your search. What’s more, we can help you with every part of your bathroom renovation. From design to build, we take a full-service approach, where customer service is always critical. Contact us today, and let’s chat about your next project.
