Get ‘floored’ over bathroom styles

Despite being one of the smallest rooms in a home, bathroom renovations require a lot of forethought, particularly to what type of flooring will be used in the space. That’s because in a small space the accessories, colors and accents you use will be much more visible than in a larger room where they tend not to be the main focus.

Flooring is one important area of consideration. There are many flooring materials that are appropriate for bathrooms, it just comes down to choosing the one that fits your budget and lifestyle. There are some materials, such as hardwood, that aren’t appropriate, and are better left for other areas of the home.

Carpet: Most people do not associate carpeting with bathrooms, however, it can be an option for homeowners who prefer warmth and softness underfoot. But carpet can mold, stain and retain odor, so it’s not a good option in a household with children or for people who are not diligent with controlling moisture. However, there are some mildew-resistant brands and carpets with special backing that are designed for high moisture areas.

Ceramic Tile: Ceramic tile is one of the most popular choices for the bathroom because of the variety of colors and styles available in tile. For the experienced do-it-yourselfer, tile can be relatively easy to install, but many homeowners prefer to leave this task to a professional. Tile is very durable, so it’s a good choice in a bathroom that receives frequent use. Larger tiles that require fewer grout lines during installation will be easier to keep clean and prevent mildew. On the downside, because of their durability, tile is a long-term commitment, so be sure you like the style and color before making it a permanent addition to the bathroom. Also, tile can be cold underfoot, so throw rugs or hydronic heating systems in the flooring may be necessary. When choosing tile, look for textured options that won’t be as slippery as glazed ones.

Vinyl Flooring: Vinyl flooring is a very inexpensive option and one with an easy installation most homeowners can tackle on their own. Stick-down vinyl tiles come in so many styles, making them a very versatile flooring option. Advanced technology has led to patterns that mimic the look of ceramic, stone and other natural materials, so design options open up even further. Vinyl tile does produce joints so eventually water infiltration can occur. Over time the tiles may warp or peel up. Higher-quality tiles tend to be thicker and more durable. Thinner, less expensive tiles will tear and chip more easily.

Natural Stone: For those with larger budgets, marble, granite, travertine and other natural stone can be brought into the bathroom. However, some of these materials may need to be specially sealed.