Choosing the right shower flooring material is an important decision that will impact the look, feel, and functionality of your bathroom. With many options to choose from like tile, stone, vinyl, and more, it can be overwhelming to select the best material for your needs and budget. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the pros and cons of the most popular shower flooring materials to help you make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shower Flooring
When selecting a shower floor material, there are several factors to keep in mind:
Durability
You want a shower floor that can withstand daily use and exposure to moisture without wearing down, staining, or growing mold. Harder, denser materials like tile and stone are very durable, while some vinyl and engineered wood floors are susceptible to damage over time.
Traction
Look for a shower floor with a non-slip surface to prevent falls, especially if you have kids or elderly household members. Textured surfaces like tile and stone provide good traction, while smooth materials can get slippery when wet.
Water Resistance
It’s crucial to find a waterproof flooring material that won’t get damaged by exposure to water and moisture. Porcelain and ceramic tiles, solid surfacing, and vinyl plank floors are water-resistant options. Some engineered wood floors may be susceptible to warping.
Maintenance
Consider how much maintenance the floor will require to keep it looking clean and bright over the years. Tile and vinyl floors are lower maintenance, while natural stone requires more regular sealing and grout cleaning.
Comfort Underfoot
You want a shower floor that feels good to stand on barefoot. Softer vinyl and engineered wood provide comfort, while hard surfaces like tile and stone can be cold and less forgiving underfoot.
Mold Resistance
A key factor is choosing a shower floor that inhibits mold growth. Porcelain tile, solid surfacing, and vinyl resist mold well. Natural stone and grouted tile are more prone to mold if not properly sealed.
Appearance
Select a flooring material and color scheme that matches your overall bathroom design and aesthetic preferences. Materials like tile offer countless colors and patterns.
Budget
Shower flooring materials range widely in cost. Keep costs in mind, as more premium materials like natural stone tile can get pricey. But don’t sacrifice quality just to save on expenses either.
Popular Shower Flooring Materials
Now that you know what to look for in a shower floor, let’s explore some of the most popular materials and their key characteristics.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
Tile is one of the most common choices for shower floors, as it’s very water-resistant, durable, and easy to clean. Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles have an impervious glass coating that prevents moisture absorption. Porcelain tile is denser and even more durable than ceramic.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and waterproof
- Wide variety of colors, shapes, and styles
- Resists stains and scratches
- Easy to clean
- Non-slip surface provides traction
Cons:
- Hard, cold surface underfoot
- Grout requires periodic sealing to resist mold
- Dropped items can chip or crack tiles
Cost: $2-$20 per square foot installed
Tile comes in different grades based on hardness and durability. We recommend only using porcelain or natural stone tile rated for floors in showers. Avoid softer wall tiles that can become damaged. Choose textured tiles and use anti-slip grout for better traction.
Natural Stone Tile
For a luxurious look, natural stone tiles like marble, travertine, and granite make an elegant shower flooring choice. Each stone has unique veining patterns for one-of-a-kind beauty.
Pros:
- One-of-a-kind natural elegance
- Durable, long-lasting material
- Non-slip surface provides traction
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other tile
- Can stain, scratch, or etch over time
- Needs yearly sealing to prevent damage, mold
- Uneven surfaces may require extra installation work
Cost: $15-$50 per square foot installed
Select a harder, less porous natural stone rated for shower floors, like granite. Softer, more porous stones like marble and limestone are prone to etching and erosion. Hire an experienced tile setter for these stones.
Solid Surface
Solid surface shower flooring (like Corian) offers a sleek, seamless look. The material is composed of acrylic resins and natural minerals molded into custom shower floors.
Pros:
- Attractive seamless appearance
- Completely waterproof
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Nonporous, inhibits mold growth
- Can be installed for curbless/zero-entry showers
Cons:
- Expensive material and installation
- Can stain from harsh chemicals
- No texture; may require etching or inserts for traction
Cost: $25-$100 per square foot installed
Solid surface floors are durable but can be slippery when wet. For improved traction, consider etching the surface or adding anti-slip inserts.
Vinyl Tile
Vinyl tile has a resilient layered construction that provides comfort and water resistance. It comes in a wide range of realistic stone and tile looks.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly option
- Completely waterproof
- Comfortable underfoot
- Realistic stone and tile designs
- Easy DIY installation
- Scratch and stain resistant
Cons:
- Less durable than natural tile/stone
- Seams more visible than seamless floors
- Not as slip-resistant as textured tile
Cost: $2-$8 per square foot installed
Always use commercial-grade vinyl tile rated for shower floors. Avoid cheap vinyls that can warp or discolor. Make sure subfloors are perfectly level before installing.
Engineered Wood
Moisture-resistant engineered wood offers the beauty of real wood with more durability. Special coatings help protect the wood from moisture damage.
Pros:
- Attractive, natural wood look
- Softer, warmer feel underfoot
- More resistant to moisture than solid wood
- Durable layered construction
Cons:
- Still susceptible to water damage over time
- Prone to scratching and dents
- Slippery surface when wet
- Mold can develop in wet cracks
Cost: $7-$15 per square foot installed
Engineered wood flooring needs special installation measures in showers, like sealing planks and applying waterproof coatings. Improper installation can lead to subfloor moisture damage and wood floor failure.
Poured Resin
Poured and troweled resin systems create a thick, glossy acrylic floor. Resins like polyaspartic and epoxy are tinted and embedded with non-slip treatments.
Pros:
- Seamless appearance
- Completely waterproof
- Durable, scratch-resistant
- Non-slip, textured finish
- Resists staining and damage
- Can slope floor for drainage
Cons:
- Long installation and curing process
- Strong fumes during application
- Expensive professional installation
Cost: $6-$12 per square foot installed
Poured resin artfully combines the look of painted concrete with the glossy finish of epoxy. Proper installation is crucial to prevent pooled water issues.
Shower Floor Material Comparison Table
Here is a quick reference table summarizing the key characteristics of popular shower flooring materials:
| Material | Durability | Traction | Waterproof | Maintenance | Comfort | Cost |
|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|
| Ceramic Tile | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Low | Hard | $2-$20 psf |
| Porcelain Tile | Superior | Excellent | Superior | Low | Hard | $2-$20 psf |
| Natural Stone Tile | Excellent | Good | Excellent | High | Hard | $15-$50 psf |
| Solid Surface | Excellent | Low* | Excellent | Low | Medium | $25-$100 psf |
| Vinyl Tile | Good | Medium | Excellent | Low | Soft | $2-$8 psf |
| Engineered Wood | Good* | Low | Moderate* | Medium | Soft | $7-$15 psf |
| Poured Resin | Excellent | Excellent | Superior | Low | Hard | $6-$12 psf |
*With proper installation and maintenance
This table provides a quick overview of how the different shower floor materials compare across the key factors. Use it as a reference to narrow down your options.
Your Guide to Shower Floor Materials
Installing shower flooring is a project where you don’t want to cut corners. Using inadequate materials in a wet environment can cause extensive damage requiring costly repairs. We recommend choosing durable surfaces rated for shower use, like porcelain tile, solid surfacing, or poured resin floors. Pay close attention to traction, as slippery shower floors present a significant safety hazard.
While upfront material costs are a consideration, also factor in long-term durability, ease of maintenance, and appearance when selecting shower flooring. A quality floor installed properly will provide enjoyment and stand the test of time.
Consult with flooring specialists to ensure you choose appropriate materials and installation methods for your specific shower design. With the right flooring choice, you can create a beautiful, functional, and safe shower environment tailored to your home.
Choosing Between Tile vs. Vinyl for Your Shower Floor
When it comes to shower flooring, two of the most popular options are tile and vinyl. Both offer benefits, so should you choose ceramic or porcelain tile or go with vinyl plank flooring? We’ll compare the pros and cons of tile vs. vinyl for shower floors to help you decide.
Tile Shower Flooring
Tile has traditionally been the go-to choice for shower floors. Harder and more dense than vinyl, ceramic and porcelain tile stand up well to constant water exposure and offer many advantages:
Pros:
- Extremely durable and waterproof
- Available in countless shapes, styles, colors
- Stain, scratch, and mold resistant
- Provides great traction with textured surfaces
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Hard, cold surface underfoot
- Grout lines prone to mold if not properly sealed
- Dropped objects can crack or chip tiles
- Professional installation required
Porcelain tile is superior to ceramic thanks to very low moisture absorption and harder composition. Choose textured tiles and epoxy grout for better traction.
Vinyl Shower Flooring
Vinyl has grown popular as a waterproof alternative to tile that is also softer and warmer underfoot. Modern luxury vinyl plank floors mimic the look of stone and tile.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly option
- Warm and comfortable feel
- Completely waterproof
- Quick DIY installation
- Realistic stone and tile looks
- Quieter than tile underfoot
Cons:
- Less durable than porcelain tile
- Seams more visible than seamless floors
- Improper installation can lead to water damage
- Not as slip-resistant as textured tiles
Always use commercial-grade vinyl flooring rated for shower use. Make sure subfloors are perfectly level before installation.
Bottom Line
While tile will be the most heavy duty and durable option, vinyl brings benefits like comfort, lower cost, and easier installation. Just ensure the vinyl flooring is commercial grade and properly installed. For a busy family shower or master bath, we lean towards porcelain tile as the safest bet long-term. But vinyl brings accessible luxury to today’s bathrooms. Consult a flooring pro to determine the best choice for your specific shower plans and budget.
Natural Stone Shower Floors (Pros and Cons)
Natural stone can provide unmatched beauty and luxury in a shower floor. Slate, travertine, marble, and granite make stunning choices to elevate your shower design. But natural stone has some drawbacks to consider before committing to this premium material.
Pros of Stone Shower Floors
Elegant Look
Few materials can match the elegance of marble or travertine. The unique veining, colors, and patterns of natural stone make a statement.
Good Traction
Natural texture provides traction to prevent slips. Honed finishes offer more grip than super-smooth polished stone.
Durable Material
Natural stone is incredibly hard-wearing and can last a lifetime with proper care. It does not easily scratch, stain, or show wear.
Ease of Cleaning
Stone requires minimal maintenance aside from regular sweeping and mopping with mild detergent.
Cons of Stone Tile Floors
Expensive
Natural stone costs significantly more than ceramic or porcelain tile. Material and installation prices are higher.
Can Stain and Etch
Acidic substances like lemon juice and wine can etch and stain softer stones like marble and limestone.
Susceptible to Damage
Stone can chip, crack, and break if heavy objects are dropped. Cracks allow moisture penetration.
Needs Regular Sealing
Sealing is required annually to protect stone grout lines and minimize moisture absorption.
Potential Added Costs
Extra installation prep may be needed to create a flat, stable subsurface for stone. Thicker mortar beds can increase costs.
Can Be Slippery
Polished stone offers less traction than textured tile. Honed stone finishes are preferable for showers.
Bottom Line
Natural stone undoubtedly provides unmatched elegance in a shower floor. But the investment is much higher compared to ceramic or porcelain tile. Be prepared for added installation efforts and proper ongoing sealing and care to protect natural stone floors from damage. Consult a tile professional to determine if your shower can accommodate stone floors within your budget.
Solid Surface Shower Floors (Advantages)
If you want a sleek, contemporary look, solid surface shower floors present a stylish option. Brands like Corian offer complete customization for a seamless appearance. Explore the many advantages of solid surface floors.
Attractive, Seamless Look
Solid surface allows shaping floors into virtually any design with no grout lines or visible seams. This provides a smooth, streamlined appearance popular in modern bathrooms.
Completely Waterproof
Solid surface materials contain acrylic resins that make them nonporous and impenetrable to even the smallest water molecules. Floors withstand puddling water.
Durable and Renewable
Solid surface is highly scratch, chip, and stain resistant under normal use. Minor damage can often be sanded and polished out of the material.
Mold and Mildew Resistant
The nonporous acrylic surface leaves nowhere for mildew and mold to take root. Solid surface inhibits bacterial growth.
Comfortable Feel Underfoot
Solid surface has a slightly soft, yielding texture that provides more comfort for bare feet than hard tile. Still, traction treatments can be added.
Seamless Curbless Showers
Floors can be tapered near drains for proper drainage in curbless, accessible showers. No grout or seams exist where water can pool.
Customizable Styling
Nearly unlimited colors and patterns are available to match your design vision. Floors can incorporate drain covers, inlays, and tile accents.
Easy Maintenance
Solid surface requires only simple cleaning with soapy water or green scouring pads to remove most stains and scuffs.
For a contemporary, low-maintenance shower floor, solid surface is a top choice that can be entirely customized. Proper installation is key to prevent pooling water.
Vinyl Plank Shower Floors (Things to Know)
Vinyl plank flooring can mimic the look of wood or stone tile at a fraction of the cost of the real material. Modern vinyl stands up to shower conditions too. But there are important considerations with vinyl plank in showers.
100% Waterproof Design
Quality vinyl plank flooring contains a resilient fiberglass core layered with a waterproof PVC vinyl top. Planks interlock tightly to prevent moisture penetration.
Warmer, Softer Feel
Vinyl provides more comfort and insulation underfoot versus hard tile or poured floors. This makes it great for households with kids or seniors.
Budget-Friendly Option
At $2-$8 per square foot installed, vinyl plank costs a fraction of stone, tile, or solid surface floors. The pricing can fit tighter budgets.
Quick, Easy DIY Installation
Click-and-lock vinyl planks go down fast without specialized tools or skills. Just prep the subfloor properly and take care around drains.
Looks Identical to Real Materials
Modern printing technology allows vinyl floors to mimic stone, wood, concrete, and other designs with stunning realism.
Susceptible to Poor Installation
Subfloor imperfections easily telegraph through vinyl flooring. The surface must be leveled and supported flawlessly.
Avoid Cheap, Low-Density Products
Only use commercial-grade, high-density vinyl rated for bathrooms. Cheap vinyl can discolor, warp, and tear easily.
Use Sealant Around Cutouts
Double-check that planks are properly sealed around shower drain cutouts to prevent moisture intrusion underneath.
With proper installation, vinyl plank flooring can provide an affordable, attractive, and waterproof shower flooring solution. Just take steps to assure high quality and correct sealing against leaks.
Poured Resin Shower Floors (Benefits)
Poured resin shower floors provide a luxurious glossy finish. Liquid resins like epoxy and polyaspartic are tinted, textured, and molded into place for a custom floor.
Completely Seamless
Liquid floors are poured and spread to a perfectly smooth, slope-able surface with zero seams or grout lines.
Strong and Durable
Resins create an exceptionally strong surface resistant to scratches, stains, and water damage. They hold up to heavy usage.
Slip-Resistant Textures Added
Poured floors can be treated with grip
