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Flooring Information and News on all types of Flooring

Guide to Types of Bathroom Flooring

Guide to Types of Bathroom Flooring

When it comes to bathroom remodeling, flooring is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It must be waterproof, slip-resistant, and durable enough to handle daily moisture and foot traffic. But it should also reflect your personal style and fit your budget. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular types of bathroom flooring, compare their pros and cons, and recommend top-rated products to help you make the best choice for your space.

1. Ceramic and Porcelain Tile

Tile is the gold standard for bathroom flooring. Both ceramic and porcelain tiles are waterproof, durable, and available in a wide range of colors, textures, and sizes. Porcelain is denser and more water-resistant than ceramic, making it ideal for high-moisture areas.

  • Pros: Waterproof, long-lasting, easy to clean, design versatility
  • Cons: Cold underfoot, can be slippery without texture, professional installation recommended

For more on tile installation, check out our post: Install Flooring Yourself and Save.

2. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Plank (LVP)

Luxury vinyl is one of the fastest-growing bathroom flooring options. It mimics the look of wood or stone while offering 100% waterproof performance. It’s softer and warmer underfoot than tile and easier to install.

  • Pros: Waterproof, affordable, DIY-friendly, realistic visuals
  • Cons: Can dent under heavy objects, not as long-lasting as tile

Recommended: Shaw Vista Shoreline Waterproof Vinyl Tile – $66.33/case at Home Depot

3. Natural Stone

Natural stone like marble, slate, or travertine adds luxury and elegance to any bathroom. It’s extremely durable but requires sealing to prevent water damage and staining.

  • Pros: High-end appearance, durable, unique patterns
  • Cons: Expensive, cold, slippery when polished, requires sealing

Stone is best for master bathrooms or powder rooms where aesthetics are a priority.

4. Waterproof Laminate

Traditional laminate isn’t ideal for bathrooms, but newer waterproof laminate options are changing that. These products have sealed edges and water-resistant cores that help prevent swelling and warping.

  • Pros: Affordable, easy to install, wood-look visuals
  • Cons: Not fully waterproof, may require underlayment

Recommended: STAINMASTER Waterproof Underlayment – $59.98 at Lowe’s

5. Sheet Vinyl

Sheet vinyl is a budget-friendly, waterproof option that comes in large rolls. It’s seamless, making it ideal for bathrooms where water spills are common. Modern designs can mimic tile or wood.

  • Pros: Waterproof, affordable, seamless installation
  • Cons: Can dent or tear, difficult to repair

Great for kids’ bathrooms or rental properties where cost and ease of maintenance are key.

6. Engineered Wood

Engineered wood offers the beauty of hardwood with better moisture resistance. It’s constructed with a plywood base and a hardwood veneer, making it more stable in humid environments than solid wood.

  • Pros: Warm, natural look, more moisture-resistant than hardwood
  • Cons: Still vulnerable to water damage, not ideal for full baths

Best used in half-baths or powder rooms where water exposure is minimal.

7. Cork and Bamboo

Cork and bamboo are eco-friendly flooring options that can work in bathrooms with proper sealing. Cork is soft and warm underfoot, while strand-woven bamboo is harder and more durable.

  • Pros: Sustainable, comfortable, unique appearance
  • Cons: Requires sealing, not ideal for high-moisture areas

Use in guest bathrooms or areas with good ventilation and low humidity.

Product Picks for Bathroom Flooring

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Conclusion

Choosing the right bathroom flooring means balancing style, safety, and practicality. For high-moisture areas, tile and luxury vinyl are top performers. If comfort and warmth are priorities, consider waterproof laminate or engineered wood in low-moisture zones. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a solution that fits your

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