If you are planning to give your bathroom a fresh look this year, the bathroom floor is a great place to start. From patterned tiles to luxurious natural stone, here is a look at the hottest flooring trends right now.
The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to set goals, plan new projects, and think about what you really want in your home. In other words, it is the perfect time to get started on that bathroom of your dreams.
Bathroom remodels have long been one of the most popular home improvement projects, as homeowners look to create a personal sanctuary that reflects their own style while increasing the value of their home.
And 2024 is no exception.
If you are planning to give your bathroom a fresh look this year, one of the best places to start is the bathroom floor. Whether you prefer a luxurious spa-like atmosphere, a modern minimalistic look, or more vibrant patterns, a new bathroom floor can set the tone and transform the overall look of your space.
With this in mind, here are some of the hottest bathroom flooring materials, designs, and colors poised to dominate bathroom remodels in 2024.
Best type of flooring for a bathroom
Porcelain or ceramic tile
Typically, when you think of bathroom floors, you think of tile.
And for good reason.
Porcelain tile, in particular, is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture, making it a strong choice for bathroom floors. With a water absorption rate of 0.5% or lower, according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), it is about as close as you will find to a fully waterproof flooring option for your bathroom.
Ceramic tile is not far behind. It has a slightly higher water absorption rate than porcelain and is a little less durable, but it still holds up well in both areas. Ceramic tile is also more affordable and easier to install, which explains why it remains in high demand.
As an added bonus, both porcelain and ceramic tile can mimic the look of other classic materials, such as natural stone and hardwood, at a lower price. So if you are looking for a bathroom floor that is durable, waterproof, and versatile, you cannot go wrong with tile.
Vinyl flooring
Vinyl shares many of the same qualities as tile.
It is durable, budget-friendly, water-resistant if not entirely waterproof, and can also mimic the look of stone and wood. It tends to feel warmer underfoot than tile, is one of the easiest floors to install and maintain, and is not as slippery when wet, though these features will vary depending on the type of vinyl you choose. The most common types of vinyl flooring found in bathrooms include luxury vinyl plank, luxury vinyl tile, and sheet vinyl.
As a low-maintenance and practical option that does not break the bank, vinyl has seen a resurgence in recent years, rivaling tile as one of the best bathroom floors on the market, and it should continue to be a top choice in 2024.
Natural stone
In 2024, more homeowners are looking to transform their bathrooms into relaxing, spa-like retreats, which brings us to natural stone flooring.
Natural stone has long been a sought-after bathroom floor, especially for those who want a more luxurious look. Along with the timeless elegance of marble and the durability of granite, slate is another natural stone that design experts expect to stay popular.
Stone floors are usually cold underfoot, which is why many homeowners install radiant underfloor heating for added comfort and warmth. Although it is best known for its style, natural stone becomes resistant to water damage when properly sealed and maintained, making it a viable option for bathroom and shower floors. Choosing stone for your bathroom floor is a bigger investment, but it should also increase the resale value of your home.
Trending bathroom flooring and shower floor ideas
Patterned tiles
In recent years, it has become clear that people want more personality in their homes, and the bathroom is no exception. Patterned tiles are one of the hottest bathroom flooring trends for 2024, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). Designs like hexagon, chevron, and herringbone are also on trend for shower floors, per the NKBA.
Terrazzo
Another way to add personality and character to your bathroom is terrazzo flooring. Featuring visible chips of materials like marble, granite, and glass, this speckled pattern has made a big comeback in the last few years, and experts are predicting even bigger, bolder terrazzo patterns on bathroom and shower floors.
Neutral and light-colored tones
Light-colored flooring, like white, gray, beige, cream, and other soft neutrals, also makes bathrooms look bigger. These neutral tones help create a calming atmosphere reminiscent of a luxury spa, while also serving as an attractive option for industrial-look walk-in showers. Gray, white, and beige were the most common non-shower flooring colors in 2023, and you can expect they will stay near the top.
Large-format tiles
If you prefer a clean, minimalistic look, large-format tiles remain a popular option for bathroom and shower floors. With fewer grout lines, large-format tiles are easier to clean and also help make bathrooms and showers look bigger. So if you are looking for small bathroom flooring ideas, large-format tiles are worth a look.
Can I install laminate or hardwood floors in my bathroom?
Laminate and hardwood floors are more susceptible to water damage, so they are generally not recommended for full bathrooms. They may, however, work in powder rooms with no shower or tub, where there is less risk of prolonged water exposure. Even then, look for a water-resistant laminate or engineered wood, which has a layered construction that makes it less prone to warping and cupping when exposed to moisture.
New year, new bathroom
Start the new year off right with a new bathroom for your home. From patterned tiles to luxurious natural stone, expect a variety of bathroom flooring trends in 2024, each one able to turn your bathroom into a space that reflects your style.
Questions about how to start your bathroom flooring project? Contact us today. Our team is ready to help.