Best Flooring Types for the Bathroom
When it comes to choosing new flooring for your bathroom, you may find it more difficult to select than your three-piece suite. Unlike bathtubs, sinks, and toilets, not all flooring is designed for the high-moisture environment of the bathroom.
As you choose the floor, your first concern must be flooring that can withstand the amount of water and moisture, while also providing a durable surface. Fortunately, there are numerous options available that won’t mean you have to compromise on aesthetics. Two options we recommend are Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVTs) and water-resistant laminate flooring.
Water Resistance
Not only will your bathroom floor see its fair share of water from wet feet, there will also be a lot of moisture in the air due to running water and steam from baths and showers.
LVTs are designed to combat water damage, making them an ideal choice for bathroom flooring. Their waterproof construction and resilient core materials ensure that they can withstand prolonged exposure to moisture without warping, swelling, or deteriorating. With LVTs, you can enjoy a beautiful, wood-like, or stone-like aesthetic in your bathroom without the worry of water-related issues.
Water-resistant laminate is another good option, and while it isn’t as good at withstanding water as LVTs, modern advancements have made it highly water-resistant and suitable for bathroom installations. The water-resistant laminate features a moisture-repellent core and protective coatings that create a barrier against moisture penetration. Laminate is not recommended for areas where there will be standing water, but it can resist spills and splashes, providing an excellent balance between style and functionality.
Aesthetics
LVTs offer a wide array of design options, allowing you to achieve the desired look for your bathroom. With advanced printing technologies, LVTs can replicate the appearance of many luxury materials like hardwood, natural stone, or ceramic tiles. You can enjoy the warmth and beauty of wood, or the elegance of marble, with unparalleled water protection and durability .
Likewise, water-resistance laminate emulates the aesthetics of wood and stone. With high-resolution printing and embossed textures, laminate convincingly replicates the look of hardwood, stone or tile. With options that emulate oak, slate, stone and other surfaces – you can find many options that will suit your bathroom’s style.
Durability and Maintenance
LVTs are renowned for their exceptional durability, making them perfect for bathrooms and other high-moisture areas of the house. The multi-layered construction includes a wear layer, which ensures resistance from scratches, stains, and fading. LVTs also require minimal maintenance – regular sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping will keep them clean and beautiful.
Water-resistant laminate flooring is also designed with durability and longevity in mind. It also features a protective wear layer that shields against damage. Laminate is easy to clean too, although it may require occasional damp mopping with a manufacturer-approved cleaner to keep floors looking pristine.
What flooring is best for bathroom flooring?
When selecting your flooring for the bathroom, we recommend both LVTs and water-resistant laminates. Regardless of your budget and aesthetic preference, you’re likely to find a surface that will suit your needs. We recommend ordering some free samples to see what the flooring looks like inside your bathroom, as the amount of light – both natural and artificial – can affect how the colour and style appear in your home.
