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Ask Bob and Betsy: Can I Use Laminate Flooring in a Bathroom?

by Bob and Betsy
Published: Last Updated on 9 comments 6 minutes read

Dear Bob and Betsy,

I know laminate flooring is not waterproof, but it is water resistant. Can I use laminate flooring in a bathroom? Or do I have to pay for and install expensive tile?
– Ariana L.

Dear Ariana,

You’re right. There’s no such thing as waterproof laminate flooring. But that does not mean that laminate cannot be installed in rooms where there is some water. The biggest concern with bathrooms is both water and humidity, which can cause buckling or bubbling. For those reasons, we would only recommend installing in a half-bath or powder room that does not have a shower or tub installed. We have compiled more information for you to help to decide what’s best for you. Cheers! Bob & Betsy

If you are looking for a wood look in your bathroom, the best choice is a vinyl floor, which is water proof and slip resistant. With that said, here are some reasons you may choose to do your half bath with laminate:

  • It’s water-resistant. Although it does not have the same waterproof quality as a vinyl flooring, laminate is still water resistant. If you regularly clean up after spills in a timely manner, your laminate will not be affected.
  • It looks good. Let’s face it – laminate flooring is stylish. Laminate flooring looks good because of its variety and durability. It comes in a wide range of colors, styles and textures that can suit any décor, from classic to contemporary.
  • It’s inexpensive compared to other types of flooring. Laminate flooring is an affordable option for half bathrooms as it’s a fraction of the cost compared to hardwood, tile or stone flooring. It also has easy installation and minimal maintenance requirements, making laminate even more economical than other flooring materials.
  • It’s durable. The laminate material has a tough wear layer that protects it from scratches, stains, fading, dents and more. Additionally, laminate floors are designed with tongue-and-groove interlocking systems that provide even greater stability against daily wear and tear.
  • It’s easy to install. Laminate flooring is easy to install, as it interlocks into itself and requires only a few tools. No adhesives, nails or screws are required for laminate installation. Laminate tongue-and-groove planks fit together easily on the traditional subfloor material of cement board, plywood or particle board without gluing. This makes laminate one of the quickest and easiest home renovations that doesn’t require special tools or skills; anyone can do it!
  • It’s easy to clean. Laminate flooring is easy to clean and maintain because it is highly resistant to stains, water damage, fading, scratches and dents. Moreover, laminate floors require no waxing or polishing so regular mopping will keep your laminate floor looking beautiful for years to come.
  • It matches. Many main floors will be outfitted with the same flooring. Continue your laminate into your half bath for a cohesive look.

In spite of the many benefits, some homeowners are wary about installing laminate in water prone areas. It boils down to who will use the bathroom.

  • Will someone at heightened risk of falling use the bathroom? One of the biggest downfalls to laminate flooring in bathrooms is the texture. When wet, laminate can become very slippery. If you, your spouse, or anyone living in your home is at a heightened risk of falling, you might need to use flooring with a stronger grip. Sometimes, people opt to install laminate and use a slip guard. These slip guards can build up moisture underneath the surface causing damage to the floor. They are not always an ideal alternative to preventing falls and protecting the floor. Another option is placing a bath mat in areas that may become slippery.
  • Will the person using the bathroom clean up spills in a timely manner? Parents know their children have the best of intentions but that doesn’t always mean they will notice and/or clean up spills right away. If your child leaves puddles of water lingering around the bathroom, it might be a good idea to avoid installing laminate flooring. Although more expensive, it reduces the risk of it warping and getting ruined from excessive amounts of moisture.

Although there are certainly pros and cons to having laminate flooring in your bathroom, many homeowners decide that the benefits far outweigh the costs. Laminate flooring is a great choice for half bathrooms because of its affordability and stylish finish. It is highly durable and resistant to water damage, scratches, stains, fading and dents. Plus, laminate floors are easy to install and maintain with minimal maintenance requirements, making laminate an economical yet long-lasting option compared to others. Happy shopping!

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9 comments

Dianne May 4, 2023 - 2:58 pm

How can I clean white laminate floors so I don’t have streaks?

Reply
Rachel Vahcic May 5, 2023 - 8:46 am

Thanks for your question, Dianne! To clean white laminate floors, we would suggest using a vinegar-water mixture to clean the floors. For a streak-free finish, try using a dusting pad on your flooring after mopping!

Reply
Sherry Luckie February 9, 2023 - 2:59 am

what are the types of flooring for nail down? We have a place that is not temperature regulated.

Reply
Rachel Vahcic February 9, 2023 - 1:21 pm

Thanks for your question, Sherry. The most common floor that is nailed down is hardwood flooring. A floating floor such as laminate or vinyl should never be nailed to the subfloor.

Reply
Danson July 5, 2022 - 9:00 pm

I have large china cabinets a buffet in my dining room why don’t we have the same concerns with them being permanent as we do with kitchen cabinets. Wouldn’t they keep the floor from expanding and contracting?

Reply
Rachel Vahcic July 6, 2022 - 9:35 am

Thanks for your question, Danson. Depending on how heavy the large china cabinets are, they may be fine. Things like kitchen counters and islands cannot be moved easily so it is important to install flooring around them. If the cabinets you are referencing can easily be moved, they are likely ok to have flooring installed underneath, as long as you are still leaving expansion gaps.

Reply
How to Protect Laminate Flooring: The Complete Guide November 20, 2020 - 10:53 pm

[…] Best Laminate: Ask Bob and Betsy: Can I Use Laminate Flooring in a Bathroom? […]

Reply
kevin January 26, 2019 - 6:50 pm

i need to build a wall for my shower do i put it on top of my new vinyl flooring or do i need to cut it to the wall

Reply
Alana Kane January 31, 2019 - 2:21 pm

Hi Kevin, thanks for the question. You should not put a wall on top of the vinyl, as it will need to move and should not be restricted. You will need to cut it and leave the proper expansion gap between the floor and wall.

Reply

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