When designing your bathroom, it can be tricky to know where to start. These four flooring options offer function and style, all in one.

1. Ceramic and Porcelain 

Pros

In addition to being offered in a wide variety of textures, shapes and colours, ceramic and porcelain tiles are durable, affordable, easy to clean and stain-resistant. Recently, the trend has shifted toward larger tiles, which create a feeling of grandeur and glamour. Large tiles also mean less grout area, making cleaning faster and easier.

Cons

Smooth, polished ceramic and porcelain tiles can be slippery, especially when wet, but choosing a textured or matte tile can help with traction. These tiles can also feel cold to the touch, which can be less than enjoyable on chilly mornings. If your budget allows, opting for a heated floor eliminates this issue and adds a touch of luxury to your bathroom routine. Finally, white grout may need a little extra TLC to keep it from looking dingy, so keep that in mind when choosing your grout colour.

Cost

From $2 per square foot.

2. Epoxy

Pros

Epoxy is nonporous, highly resistant to water, spills and stains and is easy to clean. Commonly found in high-traffic commercial settings, this durable flooring is becoming more popular in homes because it holds up to wear and tear and can be customized to go with any colour scheme.

Cons

While it’s not impossible to DIY, it’s generally recommended to hire a pro to install your epoxy flooring, making it a more expensive option. Removing this flooring is also an involved process, so do your research before committing to a style.

Cost

From $3 per square foot.

3. Polished Concrete 

Pros

Polished concrete is ultra-resistant, available in several shades and gives a modern industrial allure to the bathroom. As it can be used on walls, there’s even the possibility of installing a walk-in Italian shower. Concrete is easy to maintain and offers longevity when properly cared for.

Cons

As concrete expands and contracts depending on the ambient temperature, small cracks may develop over time. This material is also cold and hard to stand on, a downside for those looking for a cozy appeal.

Cost

From $3 per square foot.

4. Vinyl on a roll

Pros

Durable and water-resistant, vinyl is easy to maintain and install and remains comfortably warm underfoot. With all these advantages, vinyl is also very affordable and available in an array of finishes, giving the appear­ance of wood or concrete floors on a dime. Vinyl roll comes in large sheets and can be installed in small bathrooms without any seams, reducing the risk of water seeping through.

Cons

While this type of flooring is durable, it’s difficult to repair if damaged, meaning it may have to be removed and replaced if an issue arises. Vinyl flooring is also susceptible to dis­colouration over time, especially if exposed to direct sunlight.

Cost

From $1.50 per square foot