Bathroom Materials 101

Affordable Renovations Company

Planning your remodel is overwhelming at times. There are so many materials used in bathroom renovation that it can sometimes feel hard to “pick the right ones.” Here at Affordable Renovations Company we have put together a basic material guide to help you .  It’s important to discuss your options with your contractor; it’s important to have some idea of what materials are available before doing so.

Walls.

Interior paint is the simplest and most affordable bathroom wall option. Paint is available in a wide variety of colors and can contain additives which inhibit mold and mildew growth. Some types of paint are more costly than others; it is important to get the right paint for the intended area.

Textured wallpaper in a bathroom.

Wallpaper is another affordable option. There are two commonly used types of wallpaper. Vinyl wallpaper is a good choice for bathrooms because it is more functional than all-paper wallpaper options (which degrade with moisture). Textured wallpaper is made durable enough for bathrooms and can even mimic natural materials like wood, stone, or fabric.

Beadboard and towel hooks on wall of a bathroom.

Wainscoating is a general term for different types of wall paneling. Beadboard is a specific type of wainscoting which uses narrow, vertical planks. The paneling has small ridges between each board (which create a “beaded” effect. Beadboard is usually installed vertically and can add texture and detail to the room. Beadboard is a great option for protecting walls around the shower or bathtub. Shiplap is another type of wainscoating; it is characterized by horizontal lines created by overlapping rabbet joints on the edges of each plank (can be installed vertically or horizontally). Shiplap can be installed vertically or horizontally and can offer a clean look with minimal visualize interruption. Other types of paneling include flat panel (which imparts a modern look), and raised panel consisting of deeply beveled squares or rectangles that give a more classic look.

White porcelain subway tile on a bathroom wall.

Tile is a versatile option which is available in different colors. There are many different types of tile (ceramic, porcelain, glass, etc.). Tile is a durable option which is generally waterproof (if installed correctly). Although tile works well in bathrooms, too much tile can overwhelm a room and create a sterile atmosphere. With regard to walls, it is more common to use tile as an accent or to pair it with another material for balance.

Natural stone walls with double vessel vanity and freestanding bathtub.

Natural stone is exactly what it sounds like. Tile made from natural stone (marble, travertine, etc.) can give a high-end, natural look. Imagine stepping into your personal spa. Marble, formed under intense heat and pressure, is known for its luxurious feel. Marble is softer and more porous than other material and so is susceptible to staining and etching. Natural stone is porous and so needs to be sealed regularly. Stone veneer is a thin layer of real stone that’s cut from quarried or collected stone. Stone veneer has a natural, rustic look.

Flooring.

There are is a variety of options when it comes to flooring.  Floors typically consist of a subfloor for support and a floor covering which provides a good walking surface. In modern homes the subfloor can contain electrical wiring and plumbing.  In some cases, the subfloor needs to be patched or repaired before a floor covering can be installed.  In other cases, the subfloor (or portions of the subfloor) need to be replaced altogether.  A good subfloor will have the strength and durability to support a beautiful finished floor.  Care has to be taken to make sure the subfloor is even, moisture resistant, and that it has a smooth surface to prevent sagging.  There are several different floor coverings which can be installed on top of a good subfloor. 

Example of a few luxury vinyl plank options.

Laminate is one of the most affordable and basic floor options.  There has been a move away from laminate as it is not the most durable material. Laminate is generally not waterproof or heat resistant. It is prone to warping and swelling in moist environments. Because of this, laminate typically does not provide a good return on investment (ROI).

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is an affordable, popular, and durable floor covering.  LVP is a type of vinyl flooring designed to look like hardwood or other materials. LVP is scratch and water-resistant, but it can be damaged by heavy objects like furniture.

Tile made to mimic natural stone (slate).

Tile is one of the most popular materials used in bathroom flooring.  Tiles come in a variety of colors, shapes, and design. Tile provides a hard-surface and consists of tiles cut from solid or composite material. Tile is set in place with grout (of which there are several types). Grout does require maintenance and can sometimes be hard to clean. Tile flooring provides a balance of affordability and durability. There are several types of tile, but some of the most commonly used tiles are ceramic, porcelain, and glass.   

Natural stone floor, walls, and floating vanity. Double vessel sink, one-piece toilet and freestanding tub.

Wood flooring tends to be more expensive than other options, but it can give a warm, natural feel to the bathroom.  Wood is highly susceptible to water and so carries mold and mildew risk; it generally is not used in wet areas. Wood floor is strong, durable, easy to clean, and low maintenance.

Natural stone is often found in high-end bathrooms.  These floors do require periodic sealing and require a little more maintenance than other options. Natural stone often gives the bathroom a spa-like feel. Natural stone tends to be a more expensive option, but it does offer a good ROI. 

Countertops.

Laminate countertops are generally low-cost and low-maintenance.  Laminate countertops are made of layers of plastic fused with particleboard or kraft paper bottoms.  They come in a variety of patterns, textures, and colors.  Spills and stains are easily removed with cloths and sponges.  Laminate countertops are not as durable as other options, cannot be refinished, and have lower resale value.  Laminate countertops may work best in guest bathrooms or powder rooms.

Double vanity with undermount sinks and gold fixtures. Quartz countertop.

Solid surface countertops are made of mineral particles, acrylic or polyester resins, and pigments.  They are a popular choice for bathrooms because they are easy to clean, non-porous, and durable.  Like laminate they come in a variety of patterns, styles, and colors.  They are resistant to moisture, stains, and mold. 

Tile countertops are extremely versatile.  They are durable and easy to clean.  They are generally heat and water resistant, and can last for several years when properly installed and sealed. 

Quartz and quartzite countertops are rising in popularity.  Quartz countertops are man-made whereas quartzite is a natural stone.  Quartz is made by combining quartz, resin, and pigment.  Quartzite is harder and more durable than quartz, and it is more resistant to scratching.  Quartzite withstands heat better, but does require more maintenance (to prevent staining). 

Gray-veined marble countertop and single vessel sink.

Natural stone countertops are, well, made of stone.  They are durable and luxurious, but they can scratch and aren’t considered heat resistant.  They are porous and so require maintenance and require regular sealing.  They can be installed as slabs or as tiles.  Natural stone is more costly than some other materials., but you can use “lesser” grade cuts of natural stone to reduce cost.

Concrete countertops are relatively easy to custom cut and can give a more contemporary feel.

Wood countertops can bring warmth and natural beauty to the room, but require regular sealing to prevent damage from water.

Vanities and Cabinets.

Single vessel sink and vanity.

Bathroom vanities usually include a sink, countertop, storage, and a mirror. Vanities come in six basic types: pedestal, free-standing, vessel, under-mounted sink, cabinet, and floating. A vanity can be single sink, double sink, or custom.

Pedestal vanities require less space and are the simplest type. There is generally no countertop or space for storage.

Free-standing vanities are also low-profile. These are available in square or rectangular shapes and can be made to support two sinks.

Floating Vanity, double vessel sinks, and freestanding porcelain bathtub.

Vessel vanities can be quite elaborate with intricate patterns and designs. Generally, these vanities sit above your counter with a bowl that arises from the sink area; it has a separate tap.

Under-mounted sinks have a built-in basin mounted below the countertop of your vanity. They provide a smooth appearance but this comes at the cost of space beneath the sink. They are also more difficult to install.

Cabinet vanities are designed with pull-out drawers that can be custom outfitted for storage needs. They are available in many door and hardware styles. Small bathrooms may take advantage of corner vanities to optimize limited space.

Floating vanities, or wall-mounted vanities, are directly mounted to the bathroom wall. These vanities provide an open, contemporary look.

Features.

There are a variety of options when it comes to features like showers, bathtubs, and toilets. 

Curbless walk-in shower with tile surround, wall mounted toilet.

Showers come in several different varieties, including: prefabricated showers (cost-effective), corner showers (for smaller bathrooms), tub-shower combos (popular choice for families), and walk-in showers. Shower floors and surrounds can be made of fiberglass, acrylic, tile, or natural stone.  It is important to pick materials which are water resistant.

Fiberglass is not quite as durable as other materials and is prone to chipping.  Also, it can absorb water leading to mold and mildew.  It is one of the cheapest materials. 

Acrylic is more durable; sometimes they even come with lifetime warranties. Acrylic is resistant to cracks, chips, scratches, and stain.  It usually has a subtle gloss and are easy to clean.  Acrylic can be factory made and can arrive in a single piece.  Some acrylic models can be made to mimic natural stone or tile. 

Freestanding porcelain tub with curved profile, a wall mounted toilet, and washroom.

Tile is very water resistant (when installed properly is waterproof).  It is important to remember that tile tends to be cooler and can be slippery when wet (though non-slip tiles are available).  Ceramic and porcelain is most often used with glass tile used for accents or shower niches. 

Natural stone is porous and so are susceptible to water. These require regular sealing, but provide a luxurious feel. Natural stone gives a spa-like feel, but requires regular maintenance. 

Bathtubs are also available in several different styles, including: drop-in tubs, freestanding tubs, soaking tubs, and whirlpool tubs. Bathtubs can be made from fiberglass, acrylic, porcelain, copper, and stone.

Toilets can be one-piece (seamless and easy to clean), two-piece (seat and tank not separated), dual flush (reduces water use), or wall-hung (sleek option for small bathrooms). Toilet seats can be either round (for smaller bathrooms) or elongated (for comfort).