If you are thinking about updating your bathroom, flooring will be an important piece of the puzzle and you have many options to choose from. Each has its pros and cons. Some are a better fit for your budget, while others are a better fit for your aesthetic. And, because you will be putting these tiles in your bathroom, you should be concerned about their slip-resistance. Here is a run down of the five most popular options along with some of the pros and cons of each.
Vinyl Tile
Vinyl is popular among homeowners because it is budget friendly, durable, easy to install and comes in a wide assortment of colors and styles. On the downside, vinyl tiles are likely to emit VOCs, especially when new. They do not improve your home’s resale value and when a sharp object, like a pair of scissors, is dropped on them, they can be easy to scratch or gouge. It also comes in a variety of textures which can determine just how slippery it is.
Ceramic
Glazed ceramic tiles are beautiful and nearly impervious to moisture which makes them a good choice in kitchens and bathrooms. They are more expensive than vinyl, with price points averaging between $5 and $10 per square foot. They are hard and durable, but they are also heavy which does not make them the best choice for flooring on an upper level. And, while they can theoretically be installed by a dedicated amateur, the process is difficult and labor intensive which is why it is usually hired out to professionals. Professional installation services further drives up the cost of this type of flooring. It is, however, easy to maintain and will last for a long time. It is generally pretty slip resistant.
Porcelain
With a price range of between $3 and $6, this offshoot of ceramic tile is reasonably priced. Gaining in popularity with homeowners, it is incredibly tough, which also makes it good for commercial applications. Porcelain tile comes in a wide variety of colors and styles. It is also a good choice for DIY installation. Because of its low porosity, however, it requires a different compound for setting than regular ceramic tiles, so check the manufacturer’s instructions for the right compound to use. Porcelain tile can be slippery so make sure to get a variety that is slip-resistant.
Stone
Stone tile can run you anywhere from $6 to $15 per square foot. It offers a luxurious appearance but can be high maintenance due to its susceptibility to damage from water, acid or pigment. It should be sealed when it is installed and will need to be resealed at regular intervals. While stone tile is another flooring option that can theoretically be installed by a DIYer, it is a job usually best left to the professionals. How slip-resistant your stone tiles are is really dependent on the particular tiles you choose.
Linoleum
Linoleum is often confused with vinyl, but the two are different. While vinyl is related to plastic, linoleum is a much older material dating back about 150 years. Its main ingredient is linseed oil. Other ingredients have included things like wood flour and cork. It is comparable in price and installation to vinyl flooring making it one of the least expensive flooring options available. While it may give off the scent of linseed oil for a short period after installation, it is not believed to do any harm. Linoleum is generally slip-resistant.
When looking for the best flooring for your bathroom remodel, there are many options to choose from. It is important to take into account your budget and style preferences as well as whether or not you plan to install it yourself.
Looking for remodeling help in the greater Boston area? RH Blanchard has more than a decade of experience with the know-how to get you the results you want at a price you’ll love. Contact us today!
