Whether you’re thinking about renovating your bathroom to improve its look and functionality or you want to increase your home’s value, there are many options for flooring. Changing your flooring can be one of the best investments you can make for your home. However, what type of floor should you choose? What’s the most durable and attractive option that will stand up to your busy lifestyle?
Luxury Vinyl Tile (or LVT) may be the perfect answer. Not to be confused with traditional vinyl flooring, this new generation of vinyl flooring is engineered to withstand a lot of wear and tear. LVT is also water resistant and has a protective layer that keeps it looking great, even when it’s exposed to direct sunlight and the high humidity of a bathroom.
There are endless styles and colors to choose from. From natural wood to stone-like options, there’s an LVT style that will suit almost any home. Most types of LVT are also made to be groutable for a more authentic finish. Additionally, LVT is easy to install. It is much easier to cut and fit than tiles and can be used with underfloor heating, even in rooms like bathrooms.
The main benefit of using Luxury Vinyl Tile in a bathroom is its water resistance. While laminate might offer a good aesthetic, it’s not ideal for the bathroom because of the risk of damage from showers and leaks. Additionally, humidity can cause the planks to retain moisture which can lead to rot and mold. LVT and other waterproof floors don’t have these issues, making them an excellent choice for the bathroom.
Another advantage of LVT is its durability and scratch-resistance. While some vinyls are prone to scratches and gouges, most luxury vinyl products have a protective coating that makes them a great choice for a busy family household. Additionally, many brands offer a lifetime warranty that covers both wear and tear as well as damage to the material.
Finally, LVT is a fairly affordable option that can be a great alternative to ceramic or stone tile. While the price tag may be slightly higher for LVT, it’s still significantly cheaper than more expensive materials such as granite or marble.
If you’re considering installing LVT in your bathroom, be sure to prep the floor as you would any other room. This means smoothing the surface to ensure that any low spots and gaps are filled so that they won’t show up when the bathroom is used. It’s also a good idea to pre-cut the planks based on your chosen pattern and space. This will help to make the installation process much faster and more precise. By making the cuts as accurate as possible, you’ll need to use less caulking which will save you time and money. Additionally, it’s a good idea to use spacers and shims where the flooring will meet showers, sinks, built-ins, and tubs to avoid any potential warping over time.
