Hardwood floors are popular in bedrooms, hallways, and living areas. They feel warm under your bare feet in the morning, they look gorgeous, and they last a long time when properly maintained. Unfortunately, they can be damaged by spills, splashes, and moisture which tend to be common in more high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Despite these drawbacks, wood floors in bathrooms have a lot of advantages that you should still consider. Here’s how to do it right:
Advantages of Wood Floor Bathrooms
Hardwood floors have remained popular for centuries and for good reason, but their widespread use in bathrooms is a more recent phenomenon. Unlike ceramic tiles, hardwood bathroom floors remain warm during cold winter months. Thus, you can comfortably indulge in a hot shower and easily walk across the room without sending chills down your spine.
Wood floors also have a rustic and luxurious appearance which can coordinate with any mosaic tile or paint color. Earthy tones pair especially well for a timeless and nature-inspired spa feel.
A well-maintained wood floor bathroom can last for 25 years before it will need refinishing and sanding, and can last even longer with proper care. Unlike bathroom tile grout, which accumulates grease and grime, wood floors are relatively easy to clean.
How to Maintain Wood Floor Bathrooms
Watch Your Plumbing Fixtures
Damaged plumbing fixtures can ruin your wood floors. The water can seep into the wood which can lead to mold or undulation. Check for potential leaks and ensure each pipe is properly sealed when doing your initial renovation. Monitor areas prone to leaks such as valves underneath a toilet or sink. When done right, you can eliminate the risk of leakage and flooding and reduce the potential risk to your interiors.
Use Bath Mats
Place bath mats in areas where water spills are likely to occur. Take for instance the area near the sink and outside the shower or bathtub where water likely drips down with daily use. When choosing bath mats, opt for ones with reliable rubber or vinyl backing which are less likely to allow moisture to seep through the floors.
Maintain Sealant or Finishes
Your wood sealant and finish are your first-line of defense against water damage. Apply a new coat every few years and watch out for cracks on the floorboards. To determine if your flooring is in top condition, pour a small bead of water on the center of the board that is not on the seam. Come back after five minutes. If the hardwood floors are not soaked, then the flooring is still properly sealed.
Choose The Right Type of Wood Flooring
There are many types of wood flooring for bathrooms, but engineered hardwood is generally the safest option. This material is not waterproof though it is moisture resistant and comes with a reliable finish. On top of this, it mimics the appearance of solid hardwood without retaining some of its disadvantages like its vulnerability to moisture and its tendency to accumulate grime over time.
Wood floors are ideal for any space, including your bathroom. With proper maintenance, it can last for decades and still look flawless.
