Flooring inside your bathroom is as important as any other part of your house. Bathroom floors and the overall effort put into the design of a bathroom add a lot to the overall ambiance of the house.
The most basic thing to consider when choosing the floor of your bathroom is the moisture. While some people might think placing carpet on a bathroom floor is a good idea, they will eventually find that it is not the case. The moisture inside your bathroom mixed with the carpet flooring is not a good combination as carpets tend to absorb moisture that attracts bacteria.
Why You Should Choose Wood
Hardwood floors are a better choice as compared to carpets. However, there are certain things that you need to consider while choosing hardwood floors for your bathroom.
- You need to ensure that the floor is installed perfectly without any gaps through which the moisture can trickle inside the wood.
- Ensure the wood is properly protected, as unprotected wood can stain, warp, expand, or swell when exposed to any liquid. To prevent this, apply a finishing agent, such as a polyurethane sealer, to your bathroom hardwood floors. This creates an invisible layer that prevents water from being absorbed into the wood. It is important to apply the finish multiple times to effectively protect the hardwood in bathrooms.
- The type of wood that you choose for the floors is important. Some wood species are better suited to the moisture conditions in bathrooms. Avoid softwoods like Fir and Pine, as they absorb more moisture. Always consult the manufacturer regarding the warranty for bathroom use before making a selection.
The best part of hardwood floors is the fact that they come with warranties and you can get planks replaced if the product fails. However, the warranty may not cover the entire bathroom due to the high moisture levels. Some warranties may only cover areas less exposed to water, such as a half bath or powder room.
Despite this, hardwood flooring remains an excellent choice for giving your bathroom a luxurious, elegant appearance. You can choose a combination of flooring materials for your bathroom, featuring wood in areas that aren’t exposed to water, while using a different material, such as tile, in moisture-prone areas like the shower. This allows you to enjoy the beauty of wood without compromising durability where water exposure is higher.