What are Some Different Types of Bathroom Flooring?

When updating an older bathroom or building a new one, the question of how to cover the flooring of the space is always important. Generally, people prefer a flooring option that is low maintenance and hygienic. Fortunately, there are several options when it comes to covering the bathroom floor.

Far and away the most popular option for the bathroom is ceramic tile. When installed properly, the tile creates a smooth and solid surface that is easy to clean and will remain looking new for many years. While some different types of bathroom flooring require a great deal of maintenance, ceramic tile requires nothing more than a quick cleaning with the same types of cleansers used for the kitchen tile. While the installation process involves setting and grouting the floor, the end result is well worth the effort.

Close behind ceramic tile is the use of laminated tiles for the bathroom. Like the ceramic models, it is possible to create a floor surface that is smooth, relatively water tight, and requires no more than a minimal amount of effort to keep clean. Unlike other types of flooring, laminated tiles are a relatively inexpensive option. Best of all, many brands come with adhesive backing, making the process of installation a task that can be completed in just a few hours.

The use of marble is also a popular option for bathroom flooring. Cut into tiles or installed as solid sheets into the space, marble adds a bit of luxury to the bathroom. The hard material holds up well over many years of use and is also not difficult to clean. While more expensive than some different types of bathroom flooring, using marble can be seen as an investment in the home that will be enjoyed for many years.

Wood flooring can also be used in a bathroom if installed correctly. Hardwoods such as oak or pine are often used. The wood is treated and sealed to create a solid barrier that does not allow dirt and grime to seep into the grain of the wood. Another alternative is laminated flooring that has the appearance of wood. Like the real woods, the laminated versions are sealed to prevent seepage of water into cracks and crevices between the sections of laminate.

While carpeting ranks as the least desirable option for the bathroom, there are some people who prefer to go this route. Some carpeting makes use of olefin blends that tend to repel water. The pile of the carpet is typically very short, making it easy to run a vacuum cleaner over the floor periodically. The carpeting can be cleaned using a foam carpet cleaner found in most supermarkets.

Whether taking on the task of bathroom remodeling or building a new bathroom, it is worth the time and effort to consider some different types of bathroom flooring. Depending on the amount of wear and tear associated with regular use of the space, along with the personal preferences of the home owners, it is possible to find the right solution for covering the floor.