If you have plans to remodel your bathroom, you may be wondering what type of flooring to put down. In most cases, ceramic tile and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are ideal. But which option is better for a bathroom floor? Keep reading to learn about the difference between the two so you can make an informed decision.
Ceramic Tile vs. LVT
Ceramic tile is a type of tile made from white or red clay. The clay is molded into rectangular tiles and baked in a kiln to get rid of the majority of the moisture. LVT resembles real stone and wood flooring but is far more practical than the natural products. It’s a hard surface material that’s made of 100% vinyl.
Appearance and Durability
There are two varieties of ceramic tile: glossy tiles and texture tiles with a matte finish. No matter which option you choose, rest assured it’ll last forever. However, if you’re someone who likes to keep up with the latest and greatest design trends, this may be a drawback. If you decide you no longer want ceramic tile, it’ll take a lot of time and money to remove it.
LVT comes in a wide array of styles and designs so you’re bound to find an option that matches your unique preferences. It’s also easier to re install than ceramic tile so you can change it out without the hassle.
Environmental Impact
When ceramic tile is removed, it’s usually smashed into pieces and therefore not recyclable. In order to reuse it, the mortar would need to be taken out. Since this is a long, time-consuming process, ceramic tile typically makes its way into a landfill. LVT, on the other hand, is recyclable and sometimes made from recycled materials.
Maintenance
While both ceramic tile and LVT are durable and resilient, they still require some maintenance to keep them looking their best. If you opt for ceramic tile, you’ll have to clean it regularly to keep dirt and debris from getting into the grout.
Once you sweep or vacuum the tile, you’ll need to mop it. You can also use a solution of vinegar and baking soda to clean the grout. To maintain LVT, you can take most of the same steps but less frequently as there won’t be any grout for you to worry about.
Cost
In most cases, ceramic tile is two to three times more expensive than LVT. Not only is LVT more affordable than ceramic tile, it offers a similar look. If you want your bathroom floor to look like ceramic tile without the high price tag, you can probably find LVT that looks a lot like it. We’ll be happy to help you find the best option for your budget.
Ready for a Bathroom Remodel? Contact Eastside Kitchen & Bath
If you’re unsure of which flooring option to use for your bathroom remodel, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We can further explain the pros and cons of ceramic tile and LVT and help bring your dream bathroom to life.
