The right flooring can make or break your bathroom, so it’s important to select the right material. After all, this private space gets a lot of foot traffic and is exposed to a lot of moisture and humidity. That’s why it is critical to consider how the flooring you choose will perform under stress.
Waterproof bathroom flooring is no mere suggestion; you should be installing it for the best outcome. So, what are the best solutions? And which ones should you avoid?
The Reno Superstore has the answers. Here are some of the best waterproof bathroom flooring materials you should consider for your next renovation.
Best Waterproof Bathroom Flooring in Toronto and Mississauga
Water is a natural part of your bathroom, thanks to baths, showers and splashed water on your countertop. But moisture exposure can quickly damage the wrong kind of flooring material. So, it is very important to invest in the right kind. Let’s look at the top choices.
1. Porcelain Tile
Thanks to their incredible durability, versatile designs, cost-effectiveness, and waterproof qualities, it’s hardly surprising that porcelain tiles top our list. In fact, they are such a great option that they can be installed in any room.
Like hardwood flooring, porcelain tile floors look great. They are also waterproof like vinyl, giving you the best of both worlds.
Are you wondering if ceramic and porcelain tiles are the same? In fact, they are slightly different, with porcelain tiles being more waterproof.
They can be installed not only on floors but also walls. Just make sure you understand the differences between wall and floor tiles before installing them. Porcelain tiles require professional installation, as poor or subpar installation will lead to floor damage.
2. Vinyl Flooring
Working with a tight budget? Vinyl flooring is your best choice. Whether you choose vinyl sheets, planks, or tiles, this economy flooring does not disappoint. Completely waterproof vinyl flooring is easily one of the best waterproof flooring solutions.
This cost-effective flooring may not have the best resale value, but it is a strong and durable product that is ideal for high-traffic and moisture-prone spaces. But it is always important to explore your needs first to understand everything about the flooring of your choice before committing to it. Explore the benefits of vinyl flooring before making your final decision.
3. Natural Stone
This is an extremely durable, stunning, and beautiful choice for bathrooms, provided that you can afford it.
Natural stone flooring, like marble and granite, is water-resistant but requires periodic upkeep such as grout sealing. But they are undoubtedly one of the most luxurious choices for bathroom floors.
Needless to say, they help to improve the value of your home phenomenally. But it is very important to keep a realistic budget when choosing materials for your floor. Factor in the cost of transportation, installation charges, and additional materials such as cement and sand.
Natural stone tiles are unaffected by changes in temperature and are perfect if you want to install radiant heating underneath your floors.
4. Engineered Flooring
Not your traditional hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood works surprisingly well under moisture-laden conditions. It offers higher dimensional stability due to its plywood base and holds up well against moisture. Since it has a real wood veneer, it offers the look and feel of real wood.
If you wish to have a natural mood in your bathroom, engineered wood flooring is your best choice. However, it is recommended that you install it in a semi-bath, guest bath or powder room for better durability.
5. Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is another good choice. Unlike solid hardwood, laminate flooring offers better resistance to moisture exposure. The construction of laminate flooring contributes greatly to this, as the top layer is made using resin-impregnated paper with a wood chip base.
Laminate can be a good choice for your bathroom, provided that you use precautions against moisture. Professional installation is a must to ensure better longevity. Low-maintenance and easy-to-clean laminate floors may expand and bubble due to prolonged exposure to water. So, while it is not exactly waterproof bathroom flooring, it does offer some advantages. It is a great choice for powder rooms and guest bathrooms.
Now that you know the best options for your bathroom, here is a look at some products to avoid.
Bathroom Flooring to Avoid
1. Carpet
Wall-to-wall carpeting is not a good idea for bathroom floors. It retains moisture for a very long time and is difficult to dry. If you really want to install carpet, it is best to avoid organic material completely.
2. Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood is well-loved for its charm and return on investment but is not waterproof. Even though it offers warmth underfoot and looks great, water can damage it. Once the top coating naturally wears off, it is completely exposed to moisture damage.
So, even though solid hardwood is an impeccable choice in most rooms, it is an unsuitable material for your bathroom. Moreover, poor installation with gaps and other issues will result in bigger problems and costs down the line.
If you absolutely must have hardwood flooring in your bathroom, choose site-finished hardwood floors. Also, be sure to hire the professionals at The Reno Superstore to do your installation.
Bathroom flooring is an important consideration. Changing your flooring is a significant investment that needs to be considered carefully. There are a number of great waterproof flooring solutions available. But make sure to understand the material of your choice fully before you invest. Need waterproof bathroom flooring at a great price? Get in touch with us to get started.