In This Post:
– Ceramic and porcelain tiles
– Natural stone flooring
– Vinyl flooring
– Rubber flooring
– Carpet flooring
Constructing a bathroom that is both safe and functional is a homeowner’s top priority, especially if you have senior citizens or small kids at home. There is a high risk of falling and tripping over in the bathroom because of high moisture content. That is why slip-resistant flooring is considered ideal for bathrooms. However, opting for a safe choice doesn’t mean you neglect the aesthetics. There are a variety of anti-slip bathroom flooring options that provide extra safety and also add to style and comfortability. Take your pick from these popular non-slip flooring options for bathrooms.
Anti-Slip Flooring Options for Bathrooms
Here are some of the best flooring options for bathrooms you must consider that are both stylish and provide extra safety against trips and falls.
- Ceramic and porcelain tile
- Natural stone flooring
- Non-slip vinyl flooring
- Rubber flooring
- Carpet flooring
We shall walk you through each of these types so that you can choose the one that best fits your needs, preferences and bathroom specifications.
Ceramic and porcelain tile
When choosing the floor for your bathroom, consider how it will work under stress and the stress condition for a bathroom is water – lots of it – on the floor, walls, behind the sink, everywhere. Moisture creates a lot of problems, but that is not the only factor to consider when opting for a suitable bathroom floor. Budget, style, ease of appearance and durability are also some of the factors to consider when choosing the flooring for your bathroom.
Porcelain tile is not only waterproof, stylish but also cost effective. Although porcelain belongs to the same family of ceramic, the main difference between a ceramic and porcelain tile is the water absorption rate, which is only 0.5 percent or less in porcelain tiles. So, if you are using tiles for the powder room or a bathroom without the shower area, then you don’t need to install porcelain tiles as there is less water spillage in such a bathroom.
Ceramic tiles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, which makes it an ideal flooring option. One of the major pros of installing ceramic tiles in the bathroom is that it has more style options and better resale value. Also, tile cleans up well and is impervious to even standing pools of water. However, even a matte tile can be slippery, but if there is texturing on it, the surface almost becomes skid-free. Make sure the coefficient of friction (CoF) should be 0.6 or higher for increased slip-resistance.
Natural stone flooring
One of the most expensive yet popular options for bathroom flooring is natural stone. Their popularity stems from the fact that natural stone can bring a lavish luxurious spa effect. A floor made of natural stone is not only durable but also aesthetically pleasing, which increases the property’s resale value.
A drawback of having stone flooring is that it feels cold under the feet. This can be mitigated by installing radiant heating. The slippery factor of the stone flooring is minimized by introducing some texture through sandblasting or by initially purchasing naturally textured stone, such as slate.
Non-slip vinyl flooring
Vinyl flooring whether it is a plank, sheet or a tile is not only practical but is also considered one of the most popular flooring choices for bathrooms because of its affordability and the ability to resist water. If you are using vinyl tiles or planks, the seams may allow water to enter the sub floor, so a pool of standing water can be a problem.
The ideal flooring option for bathrooms is a vinyl sheet which has comparatively less seams and is therefore less likely to retain water. Another reason for choosing vinyl for bathrooms is that it is quite easy to use. Unlike tiles or natural stone, it doesn’t feel cold on the feet, making it a top choice for homeowners.
Rubber flooring
Rubber is a material that is firm on the feet and absorbs shock. It also lowers down the effect of any trips or falls. You will find rubber flooring mostly in exercise rooms, gyms and also in playgrounds, where there are high chances of trips and falls. It is well-equipped to endure stress due to vigorous physical activity. Rubber flooring can be a bit pricey but if you go for snap-together rubber tiles they are not only easy to install but also affordable. However, you might have to face a limited choice of style, colour and texture.
Carpet flooring
Carpet is a soft cushiony material that provides protection from falls and trips. If you want to increase the protective feel, then lay down a high quality carpet pad beneath the carpeting which can greatly improve both the comfortability and safety of the flooring. Carpet absorbs sound and is quite silent to walk on. Moreover, carpet is neutral for temperatures.
You won’t feel hot or cold under the feet. All of these good qualities make carpets a popular choice among homeowners. However, a few drawbacks of carpet tend to make you think twice before installing one in the bathroom. The fibers in a carpet can hurt patients suffering from cough or breathing difficulties. It is particularly harmful for asthmatic patients. If you have elderly people at home, then choose felt padding under the carpet which is firm and not too thick to make it difficult for the wheelchair to maneuver or roll on it.
So, these were some of the best anti-slip bathroom floors you should consider. If you have elderly people living with you then read our blog on tips to make an elderly friendly home. Families with smaller kids must read these blogs on kid friendly features in a home and how to make the staircase safe for kids. Stay tuned to the Zameen Blog, the best real estate blog in Pakistan. Subscribe to the Zameen Newsletter appearing on the right hand side of the page. Write to us at blog@zameen.com and we will surely get back to you.
