Decorative tile is one option for bathroom floors.
Nothing looks worse in a bathroom than worn-out flooring---no matter how hard it's scrubbed or mopped, it still looks dirty. Replacing the flooring is easier and less expensive than replacing fixtures, countertops or wall tile. A home improvement store like Home Depot has a wide range of tile and carpeting, including natural stone and marble.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
These man-made fired tiles are made of a durable material that will last for years. The downside is that the tiles will crack if something heavy is dropped on them. Tile comes in sizes ranging from 2-inch squares to 18-inch squares. Smaller tiles require more care when laying because of the additional grout lines (the grout also gets dirty so a smaller-tiled floor requires more cleaning). The edges of ceramic and porcelain tiles are beveled so they are easier to lay than natural stone. When choosing tile for a bathroom floor, make sure it's not slippery when wet.
Vinyl Tile
Many vinyl products fool the eye: wood, ceramic tile and marble designs almost look real. The choice of colors and designs are endless. Sheet vinyl is installed in long sheets on a prepared surface and best done by professionals, but squares of tile with adhesive backing can be installed by the homeowner. The surface must be completely clean and all traces of glue and foreign material must be removed. If there are cracks in the cement they will show through the vinyl squares unless filled in. Cleaning the tile is done with soap and water or commercial products. Vinyl can tear, so care must be taken when moving heavy objects.
Natural Stone
Slate, marble and granite are all natural stones used for flooring as well as for countertops. Stone comes in several sizes and finishes from dull to shiny. Since it's a natural substance, colors are natural and won't exactly match from tile to tile. When you order the stone from Home Depot, order all you'll need at one time. Stone has straight edges rather than beveled edges, requiring that the installation to be nearly perfectly level, or the edges will be felt when walked upon. Installation on a second-floor bedroom requires cement board for stability. Cleaning the stone is soap and water or natural stone cleaner. Harsh chemicals will affect the finish; natural stone stains because its porous surface.
Carpet
Carpeting in bathrooms is soft underfoot, warm and easy to vacuum. The range of colors, textures and pricing is quite extensive. Carpeting may be laid over other surfaces as long as sufficient padding is used. Deteriorating surfaces are best removed. Carpet does come in squares with adhesives backs that can be installed by the homeowner. However, most wall-to-wall carpeting requires professional installation. Home Depot and other home improvement stores can install the carpet for you. The disadvantages of carpeting in a bathroom is that the moisture may seep into the padding and mold. It's also difficult to get the carpet completely clean in the toilet area.
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