Bathroom flooring has to look stylish and complement the design while withstanding high foot traffic, moisture, and dirt, all while remaining easy to clean and durable. Selecting the right floor is a daunting task. Here are six factors to consider.

1. Color and Style

The bathroom floor connects the dots between vanity, tub, shower, and walls. You may decide on a neutral color palette as a blank canvas that lets the rest of the design stand out. Or let the flooring create a design statement with a contrasting color or tile feature.

2. Durability

You don't want to worry about replacing the floor for a long time. Select a material that can withstand the foot traffic and moisture you anticipate. Not all bathrooms are the same; you may need a different material in a primary bath than in a powder room.

3. Ease of Maintenance

Bathrooms require constant cleaning. Make life simpler by selecting a material and design that are easy to clean. With tile, that includes cleaning grout lines. Some materials need to be re-sealed over time.

4. Price

Prices range widely. Check out the materials that fit your design requirements, then review the cost of the material and ease of installation against your budget.

5. Slip Factor

Think about how the floor will feel underfoot, and how slippery it will be when wet. A floor with some texture is safer; a surface that's too smooth can be hazardous in a wet bathroom.

6. Warmth

Many bathroom flooring materials feel cold, particularly in winter. Consider materials that retain heat, or add radiant underfloor heating for a warm floor year-round. A remodel is the ideal time to add underfloor heating, though it adds to the budget.

Material Options

Tile is typically the surface of choice. Porcelain or ceramic tile offers a classic look that's durable, waterproof, and stain-resistant. Other options include porcelain wood-effect tiles or stone tiles for a more natural feel. If you want an alternative to tile, vinyl, hardwood, laminate, or eco-friendly materials like cork or bamboo are options. Each has pros and cons. We compare hardwood and tile in our flooring comparison.

Talk through bath flooring with a designer

If you're planning a bath and want to talk through flooring options, we'd love to talk.

Schedule a showroom visit at our 5,000 square foot showroom in Norwell. No pressure, just a real conversation about your home.

Transitions Kitchens, Baths & Remodeling
433 Washington St, Norwell, MA
(781) 871-0881