Getting the decision right when it comes to bathroom flooring can be tough. There are lots of variables to think about and the options are increasing all the time, making it tricky to narrow down the choices. To give you a helping hand, we take a closer look at what those variables and materials are this month.
Key considerations for bathroom flooring
Whatever type of flooring material you decide on there are two key considerations to keep in mind:
- Bathrooms are hot and humid environments, so your flooring must be able to withstand such conditions.
- Slip-resistant flooring is important, particularly for certain users, to reduce the risk of accidents.
Who is using the bathroom?
Your top consideration should be about who is going to be using the bathroom. Do you have young children or elderly relatives living at home, or likely to visit often? If you do, then you want to choose a material that is slip-resistant and softer, making it more comfortable to walk on and safer should anyone take a tumble.
Types of bathroom flooring
Traditionally, the most common materials for bathroom flooring were ceramic tiles, with porcelain becoming a very popular choice more recently as well. Those materials are still popular, and for good reason. They are hardwearing, water resistant, easy to clean, and relatively inexpensive. They also come in a very wide variety of colours and styles, making it easy to match your flooring to your walls and keep to a design style of your choosing. Other types that are gaining in popularity include:
Stone
A new and fast-growing trend is stone flooring. Stone is a very hardwearing material and advances in technology mean that it can be waterproofed so that is no longer the issue that it once was. Its increasing popularity means that it is widely available and in a variety of styles so you are bound to find one that is right for you, and it gives your bathroom a stunning finish. On the downside, it requires more careful management, including cleaning with the right products and regular re-sealing (every couple of years or so). Opt for slate marble or limestone for a lower porosity.
Vinyl and luxury vinyl tiles
Vinyl was once considered the cheap alternative to tiles. The luxury vinyl tiles of today are a far cry from those days. Water resistant and warmer underfoot, they come in such a variety of options – including wood and stone effect – that you will need some time to make a decision on what you want! They will last a long time so the slightly higher price than porcelain or tile can be justified.
For more information on the bathroom flooring options and what may be right for you, talk to our experts at Cherry Carpets. You can call or email us on 020 8249 9726 and for an initial chat, to make an appointment, or to ask for your free quote.