A Quick Guide to Using Hardwood Flooring in Your Bathroom
Posted on: 26 October 2016
When it comes to flooring the bathroom, most people will go for tiles. This is the easiest option, but many homeowners are drawn to the idea of fitting a hardwood floor in their bathrooms. After all, it's hard to resist the natural aesthetic advantages of wood, and the material gives the bathroom a more natural and inviting air.
Unfortunately, hardwood does not get along with moisture, and, unless you happen to own an indoor swimming pool, there's probably no room in your house that is home to as much moisture as the bathroom. Compounding this problem is the fact that bathrooms tend to be quite small, ensuring that moisture fills them more densely.
But fret not. Though hardwood floors present certain challenges, it is possible to have them in your bathroom if you know the right steps to follow.
Apply a Sealant
The first thing you'll want to do when you lay down your hardwood flooring is have the wood sealed. If you do this yourself, make sure to find a sealant that is specifically designed to handle interior wood; many of the products used for exterior decking are unsafe when used in enclosed environments. You should also fill the cracks between boards with putty to ensure that water isn't allowed to seep through. Reapply sealant every six months or so to ensure that your wood stays protected.
Clean Up Spills Without Delay
If you want your hardwood floor, you're going to have to keep on top of things. Puddles and splashes should be dried up immediately, and it's wise to go over the walls and floor with a towel after you've had a particularly long soak. Place rugs across areas most likely to get wet, such as in front of your sink and bath, but remember to dry them out regularly to prevent the moisture they have trapped affecting the floor. Similarly, make sure towels are only used once before being cleaned, and never just drop them on the floor after you're done drying yourself.
Ventilate Properly
After you take a shower, make sure you open up a window and then leave the bathroom door open when you leave. This will allow moisture to dissipate. You should also think about investing in a fan to remove moisture from the bathroom as quickly as possible, especially if your bathroom is on the smaller side.
Keep Appliances Maintained
If a toilet overflows or a pipe bursts, it could be all over for your hardwood flooring. When such a large amount of water is absorbed, it will cause the planks to swell and become misshapen. Make sure this doesn't happen by staying on top of all maintenance work.
Having hardwood flooring in your bathroom is possible, but you do need to take extra care to prevent damage. If the steps above have put you off, remember that you can always use a laminate alternative to give the appearance of wood. Either way, don't hesitate contacting a bathroom renovations professional.
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