Tips to choosing the right Marble and Hardwood flooring for your bathroom

The bathroom is a water-heavy environment – a place where water and moisture reign supreme. So, when you eventually decide to opt for a bathroom makeover, you should go for flooring that not only looks and feels good but is also functional and can withstand the bathroom environment. When choosing the right flooring option, make sure that the flooring can handle moisture and humidity, isn’t slippery when wet, and can be cleaned/ maintained at ease. Your bathroom should be comfortable and safe, no matter what choices you make. This brings us to the question whether you should go for marble and hardwood flooring in bathroom, and if yes, what are the ifs and buts that you should follow.

Using marble flooring in bathroom: Does it make sense?

Marble is a metamorphic rock – one that has been in use since time immemorial and has also been used in mansions and castles for hundreds of years. But in spite of all this, homeowners are always somewhat skeptical about installing marble on bathroom floors! Why? Well, mostly because they fear that water would ruin the floor, though in reality, that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, marble is a durable flooring option, which when treated properly, can stand up to anything a modern bathroom can throw at it. Needless to say, that it also ups the look of the bathroom, thereby boosting the value of the place. However, there are a few things that you must keep in mind when opting for a marble flooring in bathroom.

• Marble loos great in the bathroom, not just as flooring, but also as shower walls and countertops. It gives the room a bright and expensive feel. And the best part is that marble comes in different sizes and shapes.
• If you really want to keep your bathroom looking brand new for years to come, seal the marble at the time of installation, and then every 6-12 months thereafter.
• Low-gloss, brushed, and honed marble can often make water stains and dried toothpaste glops disappear – until of course you have time to clean them. How? Well, marble’s naturally occurring veining gives it a beautiful look that turns people’s attention away from these little mishaps.

Benefits of installing hardwood flooring in bathroom

Hardwood flooring is very durable and long-lasting. It has a beautiful natural look that is prized by many homeowners/ property owners. While some hardwood flooring options may not serve you well in the bathroom, there are others that would work wonders. That said, hardwood flooring in bathroom will require a higher level of maintenance.

Here are some quick advantages of using hardwood as flooring in bathroom.

• In the witer months, hardwood floors are much more comfortable than some of the other flooring options such as ceramic tiles. The natural/ earth tone colors make the room feel more inviting.
• Hardwood adds a natural element to the bathroom, where each plank of wood is unique. This makes the bathroom floor look premium and creates a design continuity with other rooms.
• If maintained well, hardwood flooring in bathroom can last more than 25 years. If and when they appear scratched, they can be sanded and refinished to bring them to their original self.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I maintain marble flooring in a bathroom?

At Floors Blvd, we recommend cleaning marble flooring in bathroom with a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth. This prevents scratches and etching. Avoid using acidic/ abrasive cleaners as they tend to damage the marble flooring. Seal the marble periodically to protect the flooring from stains and moisture. Check for any signs of damage from time to time and address them promptly.

How do I protect hardwood flooring in a bathroom?

To protect hardwood flooring in bathroom, we at Floors Blvd recommend sealing the wood with a water-resistant finish. You can also use bath rugs/ mats to absorb some of the water. Make sure that the bathroom has enough ventilation to lower the humidity/ moisture in the space. You can even use a dehumidifier if needed.

Should I seal marble or hardwood flooring and how often should it be done?

Yes, both hardwood and marble flooring should be sealed when installed in the bathroom. This protects them from the excessive moisture as well as from stains. While marble flooring should be sealed every 12 months, hardwood flooring should be sealed every 3 years or based on the condition. Sealing these floors helps maintain the appearance and up their longevity.