Bathroom Flooring: Vinyl Flooring in Bathrooms

In our experience homeowners in Maidstone and Medway, Kent remain sceptical about the use of vinyl flooring in bathrooms so let,s take a look at the pros and cons of using this type of flooring in your bathroom or ensuite.

What is vinyl flooring made from?

Waterproof vinyl flooring comes in 2 types, wood plastic composite, a mixture of plastic and wood flour and stone plastic composite, a mixture of plastic and stone.

The material usually comprises of four layers;

The wear layer, which is the bit of the flooring you walk on. The thicker the layer the more durable the flooring.

The printed layer is the strata that provides the look and texture of the floor. Vinyl flooring is incredibly realistic today, it’s almost impossible to distinguish it from real wood or stone flooring until you touch it.

Next is the waterproof core which protects whatever is under your flooring. It is waterproof, not just water resistant. You can submerge vinyl tiles or planks in water for weeks without fear of water ingress or damage.

Lastly is the backing layer which provides cushioning underfoot and depending on the manufacturer, and the condition of your foundation floor, can negate the need for underlay.

We often use a brand of flooring called Kompact Klickfloor in all rooms of the house including bathroom. It actually has more substrates than described above but the principal is the same.

bathroom flooring in waterproof vinyl
Bathroom flooring in waterproof vinyl.

What are the advantages of flooring a bathroom with waterproof vinyl tiles or planks?

  1. As previously stated wood and stone finishes in waterproof vinyl are incredibly realistic.
  2. If your are capable and have the right tools you could lay the flooring yourself. Any doubt though and it may be worth using a flooring specialist or your bathroom fitter to install it.
  3. the properties and texturing in vinyl flooring mean that it is more slip resistant than most tiled floors which is a real plus if you have kids running around or a getting on in years yourself.
  4. It is softer underfoot and warmer than a tiled surface, again great for kids or the elderly.
  5. Vinyl flooring requires very little maintenance.
wood effect vinyl bathroom flooring in Medway and Maidstone
Wood effect waterproof vinyl flooring.

What are the drawbacks to using vinyl flooring in bathrooms?

Well, there aren’t any really other than it’s not an entry level budget choice. Choose a good quality brand, install it well and you will have a stunning floor that will last for years.

Later we’ll have a look at other options for flooring in your bathroom or shower.