When it comes to remodeling a small bathroom, flooring plays a pivotal role. It’s not just about aesthetics—although, let’s be honest, who doesn’t want a beautiful bathroom floor? The right flooring choice can open up the space, making a tiny bathroom feel more expansive and inviting. But where do you start? With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Fear not! This guide will walk you through the best small bathroom flooring ideas, helping you create a space that’s as functional as it is stylish.
Let’s face it—small bathrooms come with their own set of challenges. Limited floor space, minimal natural light, and cramped quarters can make even the simplest bathroom remodel feel like a massive task. But here’s the good news: the right flooring can make all the difference. It can maximize your valuable floor space, reflect light to brighten up the room, and create a cohesive look that ties the whole space together.
Plus, bathroom flooring isn’t just about looks. It’s also about durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance. After all, a bathroom floor has to withstand daily wear and tear, from steamy showers to the occasional splash of water. So, let’s dive into some small bathroom remodel ideas that’ll help you choose the best flooring for your space.
When it comes to small bathroom remodeling, not all flooring options are created equal. You’ll want to choose a material that’s not only beautiful but also practical for a small and often humid environment. Here are some top contenders:
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a superstar when it comes to small bathroom remodels. Why? Because it offers the look of natural stone or wood, without the high maintenance or cost. LVT can be waterproof, durable, and incredibly easy to clean—a must for any bathroom. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek, modern look or a more traditional vibe, LVT comes in a variety of styles that can suit any bathroom design.
One of the best parts about LVT is its ability to mimic the appearance of more expensive materials, like marble or hardwood, at a fraction of the price. This makes it a popular choice for homeowners looking to achieve a high-end look on a budget.
When you think of bathroom flooring, ceramic and porcelain tiles likely come to mind—and for good reason. These materials are classic choices for bathrooms, thanks to their water resistance and durability. But just because they’re traditional doesn’t mean they’re boring. Today’s ceramic and porcelain tiles come in a wide array of colors, patterns, and textures, allowing you to create a floor that’s uniquely yours.
One of the biggest advantages of ceramic and porcelain tiles is their ability to handle moisture. These tiles are naturally water resistant, making them ideal for a bathroom environment. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to clean—just a quick wipe, and you’re done. Whether you opt for large-format tiles to minimize grout lines or intricate mosaic patterns to add visual interest, ceramic and porcelain tiles are a solid choice for any small bathroom remodel.
If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your remodel, natural stone flooring might be the way to go. Materials like marble, travertine, and slate offer a timeless beauty that’s hard to match. Natural stone brings a unique, organic feel to a space, with each tile offering its own distinct variations and patterns.
However, it’s important to note that natural stone can be more porous than other flooring options, meaning it may require regular sealing to prevent water damage. It’s also typically more expensive than materials like LVT or ceramic tile. If you want the look of natural stone without the hefty price tag, consider opting for stone-look vinyl.
Love hardwood but terrified of what your bathroom moisture could do to your flooring? It might sound like a recipe for disaster, but engineered wood is actually an amazing alternative to the natural version. Unlike traditional hardwood, engineered wood is made with a plywood base that’s designed to resist moisture, making it a viable option for bathrooms.
Engineered wood offers the warm, inviting look of real wood, with the added benefit of being more resistant to humidity and temperature fluctuations. This makes it a great choice for those who love the look of wood but need a material that can stand up to the challenges of a bathroom environment.
Laminate flooring is another option worth considering for a small bathroom remodel. It’s affordable, easy to install, and comes in a variety of styles that mimic the look of natural wood. It may come as a surprise to see laminate flooring recommended for a room that will experience high moisture and frequent splashes, but many laminate products are water resistant or even fully waterproof, making it an excellent potential choice for bathrooms.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on style, laminate flooring could be the perfect fit. Just be sure to choose a laminate that’s specifically rated for use in bathrooms to ensure it holds up over time.
Choosing the right flooring is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly make the most of your small bathroom remodel, you’ll want to consider a few design tips that can help maximize your space and create a cohesive look.
In a small bathroom, light colors are your best friend. Lighter flooring can make a space feel larger and more open by reflecting natural light and reducing the appearance of shadows. Consider choosing a light-colored tile or LVT to brighten up your bathroom and create an airy, spacious feel.
Just because your bathroom is small doesn’t mean you have to play it safe with your design choices. Consider using patterned tiles or arranging tiles in a unique layout to add visual interest to the space. For example, herringbone or chevron patterns can add a sense of movement and dimension to a small bathroom floor.
It might seem counterintuitive, but large-format tiles can actually make a small bathroom feel bigger. By minimizing the number of grout lines, large tiles create a more seamless, continuous look that can help expand the perceived size of the room. Plus, larger tiles are easier to clean—always a bonus in a bathroom.
When choosing flooring for your small bathroom, it’s important to think about maintenance. Some materials, like natural stone, may require regular sealing to keep them looking their best. Others, like LVT and ceramic tile, are more low-maintenance options that can be easily cleaned with a simple mop or cloth.
Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in maintaining your bathroom floor, and choose a material that fits your lifestyle.
Once you’ve chosen the perfect flooring for your small bathroom, it’s time to think about flooring installation. While some homeowners may feel comfortable tackling a bathroom flooring installation as a DIY project, others may prefer to hire a professional to ensure the job is done right.
If you’re unsure about your abilities or simply want the peace of mind that comes with hiring a pro, it’s worth considering professional installation. Empire Today® offers comprehensive installation services, ensuring your new bathroom floor is installed correctly and efficiently.
When it comes to small bathroom remodel ideas, flooring is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The right flooring can enhance your bathroom’s design, make the space feel larger, and stand up to the unique challenges of a bathroom environment. Whether you choose the durability of LVT, the classic appeal of ceramic tile, the luxury of natural stone, the warmth of engineered wood, or the budget-friendly nature of laminate, your bathroom floor should reflect your style and needs.
Empire® offers a wide selection of flooring options that are perfect for small bathroom remodels. From guidance to professional installation, we’re here to help you create the bathroom of your dreams. So, what are you waiting for? Schedule an in-home appointment to start on your bathroom transformation today!
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