Luxury Vinyl Flooring for Bathrooms: Waterproof and Modern
Due to its waterproof properties, tile flooring has been an industry standard for moisture-prone bathrooms for the better part of the last hundred years. When properly installed and grouted, tile is impenetrable to water, easy to keep clean and durable. However, tiles do sometimes crack, can present a slip hazard, and grout can become difficult to maintain. If you are in need of a bathroom upgrade, there are other options that are easier to install, and offer many style options to fit your decor. A client favorite you should consider? Luxury Vinyl Flooring.
Although there are many varieties of vinyl flooring, today we are talking specifically about the type that clicks together using tongue and groove technology, to form a waterproof floating floor. There are other options, which include glue-down options and sheet vinyl, but those are topics for another day.
The design options for Luxury Vinyl Flooring or LVF, are continually expanding. It is available in a tile format, known as LVT, or as planks, known as LVP. These innovative products realistically emulate wood and stone at a fraction of the cost. Regardless of what you choose, both options are excellent in humid or damp conditions, because they are made entirely of inorganic materials and won’t experience damage due to moisture.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
If an elegant, modern, or contemporary tile look is what you want, consider LVT. You can find it to resemble different types of ceramic tile or natural stone. Most LVT options are wider and shorter than plank formats and mimic the natural qualities found in materials like granite or marble. The pieces click together and form a floating floor, which can be installed over some pre-existing floors or subfloors.
In some cases, they are styles with a slight grout ‘line’ for authenticity. Many varieties have an underlayment attached, but you should check to see if you need to purchase one separately. With a variety of options, you are sure to find one that fits your style, whether you prefer something rustic or more urban chic.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Hard surface flooring including genuine hardwood and many laminate products are generally discouraged in areas that have the potential for high humidity, because damp conditions can cause damage. Not so, with LVP! You can have the look of wood without the worry of what might happen if your flooring gets wet.
LVP is similar to LVT except that the flooring comes in longer, more narrow pieces that resemble wood planks, which attach to one another and form a floating floor. If you want the look of wood in your bathroom, LVP is a great choice. There are options that mimic the grain of different tree species, in a wide variety of stains and styles, so you won’t have a problem finding one that suits your decor.
Whether you have a tile or wood look in mind for your bathroom, our helpful professionals at Color Interiors are ready to help you with your luxury vinyl purchase. We can help you review style options and installation, to make sure your selection fits both your decor and your budget.