There are plenty of hardwood flooring options but engineered is a better option than solid when it comes to bathroom flooring. This is due to plywood or solid wood being more absorbent to hold up excessive moisture. This is an option to consider if you are set on installing wood flooring for your condo bathrooms. Before you move on with your plan, read the article below to gain some insights on the different available options for you to consider.
Water Damage
Bathroom floors within large households remain in a damp condition most of the time and this may result in mold growth. Even with the existence of harsh chemical cleaners that can kill harmful bacteria and mold, hardwood flooring will most likely deteriorate over time and look dull and lifeless.
Faux-Hardwood
Instead of using hardwood, you may wish to consider opting for faux-hardwood flooring. These floors mimic the look of real hardwood and they are really good at it that it is almost impossible to tell them apart. Other durable and water-resistant options include wood-like tiles and ceramic which offer the same aesthetic appeal without the risks of mold growth and water damage.
Decking Wood
Decking wood that has been specially treated against moisture is often used for external decking. This is another good alternative to real hardwood as it can resist moisture. Nevertheless, you will still need to carefully consider its chemical composition and possible emission rates which can be researched on prior to deciding. If decking wood were to be used outdoors, the risks of exposure are reduced to a minimum. To use it indoors inside the bathroom where human traffic is to be expected several hours a day, risks of exposure are greatly increased. Read up on the toxicity levels of decking wood before considering this alternative.
Wood Flooring
At the end of the day, you hold the key to your own decisions. If you insist on using wood flooring for your condo bathrooms, there are several factors for you to take note of. Firstly, wood flooring is perfectly fine to be used inside bathrooms if you maintain regular upkeep of your floors. Proper cleanup and drying are some of the techniques required to ensure no splashes ruin your wood flooring. There are also plenty of homeowners who have taken this route and shared how they have not experienced any issues with their bathroom wood flooring to date. They have also shared several tips based on their personal experiences, including:
- Ventilating your bathroom properly to minimize humidity levels.
- Quickly cleaning up spills regardless of the size.
- Placing rugs on areas where spills are most likely to occur, e.g., under the sink, in front of the bathtub, and next to the shower.
- Resolving clogged toilets or condensation issues. These problems may result in a much bigger problem. Deal with them as soon as they crop up to prevent the water damage from spreading across your wood flooring.