Bathroom floors are obviously associated with moisture and wetness. Water spills are not uncommon, and, hence, this must be a consideration when deciding on eco-friendly bathroom flooring. Coupled with the wetness, bathrooms can also get dirty quickly, and if the wetness persists, mold growth is also common.
Having the right type of flooring for the bathroom is essential, but this does not mean that one has to sacrifice style or functionality. Today, many homeowners are considering the best eco-friendly bathroom flooring options and they include the following.
Concrete
Concrete has been around for many decades and is sometimes used as flooring for the bathroom. Concrete offers the same functionality as tiles; it is not easily damaged by water; it is easy to clean; and it is extremely durable. Today, impermeable concrete is readily available for bathroom flooring and will easily last three to five decades if well maintained.
The good thing about concrete is that preparation and installation do not require the use of any chemicals. Concrete can also be recycled, which leaves no carbon footprint. The two downsides to concrete include 1) its hardness which can be uncomfortable on the feet, and 2) it can feel a little cold, especially during the winter months. The positive features of concrete are that it is very easy to clean and affordable. For a warm climate like Florida, concrete is the ideal flooring for the bathroom.
Tiles
Tiles have always been the recommended flooring of choice for the bathroom. The reason is that tiles are moisture-resistant, durable, and very easy to maintain. If well looked after, tiles can easily last three to five decades. Large format tiles are usually recommended as they can make the bathroom appear to be much bigger than it really is. Plus, with large format tiles, there are few regrout lines, and the floor and walls will appear less cluttered and restrictive.
Homeowners need to select denser porcelain tiles because they are much harder, less likely to crack and offer more water and stain resistance. In addition, porcelain tiles tend to maintain the in-flooring heat, which helps keep the flooring nice and warm on cold mornings. Finally, porcelain tiles are available in many styles and designs.
When it comes to eco-friendliness, a fair number of ceramic tiles are recycled and release low levels of VOCs, which also help decrease the impact on the environment. Coupled with a life span of more than 50 years, ceramic tiles are one of the best eco-friendly bathroom flooring options available.
Linoleum
Linoleum flooring has been around the longest and has withstood the test of time. Unlike vinyl, linoleum is made from natural materials, like linseed oil, and has good antimicrobial properties, which are ideal for combating mildew and mold in the bathroom.
The latest linoleum products are fire-resistant, scratch-resistant, and moisture-proof. Linoleum is very easy to maintain and will easily last three to four decades. It is recommended that for the bathroom, one install linoleum sheets instead of planks or tiles because it reduces the number of joints and seam lines. In addition, it is important to select adhesives that are labeled as no or low VOCs.
Cork
Cork flooring is rapidly becoming popular in North America chiefly because of its eco-friendly features. It is a rapidly renewable resource that is obtained from the bark of the cork tree. Trees are generally not sacrificed, and many cork products also tend to be recycled. Cork flooring is not naturally waterproof but can be made water-resistant with a polyurethane surface coating.
It is important to select polyurethane that is a low VOCs emitter. Cork has many great features: it absorbs sound, is very comfortable to walk on, is easy to clean, and is durable. Cork is also naturally resistant to mildew, mold, and bacteria. The one drawback of cork is that it is soft and prone to dents and scratches. If well looked after, cork flooring can last at least four decades.
Bamboo
Bamboo is another eco-friendly bathroom flooring option. The material is water resistant, extremely hard, and durable. Bamboo grows very rapidly and is a renewable resource making it very environmentally friendly. Bamboo flooring is also very easy to clean and, if well maintained, can easily last many decades.
The one downside of bamboo flooring is that it can be prone to scratching. Overall, if money is not an object, bamboo is one of the best eco-friendly bathroom flooring materials not only for the bathroom but for the entire home. The latest bamboo products are available in many textures, grains, and colors that can match any decor in a home.
Terrazzo
Another eco-friendly option for the bathroom is terrazzo flooring. This particular flooring is a mixture of marble, glass, and quartz, and can also be made from recycled material. The end result is that it leaves a very small carbon footprint.
Terrazzo is also very durable and moisture-resistant. Because of its excellent aesthetics, it can also increase the value of the home. Terrazzo is easy to look after, and, if well maintained, it can last many decades. The one downside to terrazzo flooring is the cost, which is higher than most other floorings.
Natural Stone
Natural stone is another eco-friendly bathroom flooring option. Natural stone is exceptionally hard, durable, and has beautiful aesthetics. In fact, natural stone will enhance the value of the home. The material is easy to clean and maintain.
If well looked after, it can easily last many decades. The downside to natural stone is that the flooring feels hard and cold. Also, to help protect against slips and falls, the surface should be textured. If you are looking for the best eco-friendly bathroom flooring option, nothing beats natural stone with its superb aesthetics.
CONCLUSION
Today, homeowners have several good choices of eco-friendly bathroom flooring options. They all are moisture resistant and have good functionality. However, at the end of the day, the choice is strictly personal. Consult with an East Coast Flooring and Interiors professional to discuss the best eco-friendly bathroom flooring for your needs. By working with a reputable dealer, you will be well-informed and provided with the right options.