Wood flooring looks fantastic. You can get it in a huge variety of styles and patterns, such as this stunning herringbone parquetry flooring or a simpler plank version.
But, most people know that moisture and wood don’t mix well, leading to the question of whether wood flooring is a good idea in the bathroom or not.
The Advantages
Hardwood flooring is surprisingly easy to keep clean and low maintenance. That means it is easier to look after than carpet and several other floor types. It may not be quite as durable as tiles but it is warmer underfoot and gives the room a cozier feel.
It’s especially worth noting the warmth underfoot considering most people go barefoot in the bathroom. You should also be aware that it’s hard to find a floor as beautiful as your wooden floor in your bathroom. It simply works.
In fact, using wood flooring in the bathroom generally makes it easier to create flow and maintain interior decoration styles.
You should also note that, thanks to the long life of the flooring, it is a cost-effective choice. It will cost you less in the long term than other flooring types.
The Disadvantages
Of course, there are some issues related to using wood in, the bathroom.
The first is that it’s expensive. Solid hardwood flooring is not the cheapest option on the market. But, the floor is high-quality, meaning you’re paying for this quality.
Unfortunately, as wood doesn’t generally like moisture, there are some issues with hardwood flooring in a bathroom. These rooms tend to deal with a lot of moisture through steam and wet feet from the shower. This water doesn’t soak into the wood because it has a protective finish. But, over time, the finish will wear down and the moisture can then seep into your hardwood flooring. This will cause it to swell and warp. If left for an extended period the moisture can even cause rot in the wood, meaning you’ll need to replace the floor.
That’s why spills and stains need to be cleared up immediately and the floor should be re-coated regularly to ensure it remains protected against water ingress. If this isn’t done then the manufacturer’s warranty will usually be void.
It’s also worth considering the slope of the floor. Bathrooms, and other rooms of the house, often have a slope. This will allow water to collect in one spot. You’ll find this increases the likelihood of rot and excess moisture in the bathroom. As moisture attracts mold which is bad for your health, this isn’t a desirable outcome.
Protecting Your Floor.
If you choose to have hardwood flooring in your bathroom then it’s important to use bath mats in the key locations. These will prevent excess moisture from getting onto your floor. At the same time, make sure the top coating is regularly replaced to eliminate the likelihood of moisture getting into the wood.
It’s also a good idea to add edgings to your water appliances as this prevents water from dripping down the appliance and down the side of the wood flooring.
