The bathroom is a room subject to constant humidity and water splashes, which requires a choice of suitable materials. The options are numerous and varied: from classic tiles to warm wood, through practical vinyl, economical PVC, modern laminate, or even elegant parquet. Each type of flooring has its advantages and disadvantages, whether in terms of price, ease of installation, or water resistance. The choice of flooring must also take into account safety , in particular with non-slip options to avoid accidents. The coverings can come in the form of strips, rolls or tiles, offering a multitude of possibilities to adapt to your tastes and the decoration of your bathroom.
The different types of coatings
Choosing the right floor covering for your bathroom is not something you should neglect. Here is a presentation of the main types of coverings available, with their characteristics and advantages.
Tiling
Tiles are one of the most commonly used floor coverings in bathrooms. They are waterproof, easy to clean and available in a wide variety of colours and patterns, including wood effect tiles, classic white tiles or even more daring designs like beige tiles.
Cons : Tiling can be complex and expensive. Additionally, tiles can be cold and slippery when wet, sometimes requiring anti-slip treatments.
PVC flooring
PVC is an economical and easy to install option, often available in rolls or click-together tiles. It is waterproof and moisture resistant, making it a recommended choice for bathrooms. PVC mimics other materals such as wood or tiles well.
Cons : Less durable than tile or natural stone, can warp under heavy loads, and doesn’t always offer the premium look of some other materials.
Vinyl
Similar to PVC, vinyl is water-resistant and easy to maintain. It comes in many patterns and colors, including wood, stone or tile imitations. Available in rolls, tiles or strips, vinyl offers great installation flexibility.
Cons : Like PVC, it may be less durable and scratch resistant. Product quality can vary greatly depending on price.
Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is an option that offers the warm look of wood while being more resistant to moisture than solid wood. Laminate flooring boards are often treated to be waterproof.
Disadvantages : Less durable than solid wood, it can be damaged by prolonged exposure to water
Natural stone
Natural stone, such as marble, granite or slate, gives a luxurious and durable look to your bathroom. Some types of stone, such as granite, are naturally non-slip.
Cons : High cost and requires regular maintenance, including water repellent treatments to remain waterproof
Polished concrete
Very trendy, polished concrete offers a modern and industrial aesthetic. It is durable and water-resistant when properly sealed.
Disadvantages : Installation requires a professional and regular treatment to maintain its waterproofing. Its cost can be high.
Seagrass and linoleum
Seagrass is eco-friendly, rot-proof and gives a natural look. Linoleum, made from natural materials, is durable, comfortable and available in many colors and patterns.
Disadvantages : Seagrass requires regular maintenance to maintain its elasticity. Linoleum, although durable, can be sensitive to excessive moisture.
The essential criteria to take into account
Waterproofing: A bathroom floor covering must be completely waterproof to withstand moisture and frequent splashes. Tile, PVC and vinyl are excellent choices for their waterproofness.
Safety: The risk of slipping in a bathroom is high. It is recommended to choose non-slip materials, such as certain textured tiles, polished concrete or non-slip mats.
Ease of maintenance: The bathroom floor must be easy to clean to maintain good hygiene. Tile, PVC and vinyl floors are particularly recommended for their simple maintenance.