Should I install tile or laminate in my bathroom?
should I install tile or laminate in my bathroom?
For Ottawa bathrooms, tile is almost always the better choice due to superior moisture resistance and durability, though luxury vinyl plank (LVP) can be a good middle-ground option.
When it comes to bathroom flooring in Ottawa's climate, moisture resistance should be your top priority. Traditional laminate flooring, while affordable and attractive, simply isn't designed for the high-humidity environment of bathrooms. Even "water-resistant" laminate can suffer from swelling, warping, and delamination around the toilet base, shower area, and vanity - problems that become costly repairs down the road.
Ceramic or porcelain tile remains the gold standard for Ottawa bathroom renovations, and for good reason. It's completely waterproof, handles our temperature fluctuations well, and with proper installation including waterproof underlayment, provides decades of reliable service. Porcelain tile is particularly excellent for Ottawa homes because it's freeze-thaw resistant - important if you have any exterior walls or unheated areas adjacent to your bathroom. Expect to invest $8-15 per square foot installed for quality ceramic tile, or $12-25 per square foot for premium porcelain options.
If budget is a primary concern, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT) offers an excellent compromise. Modern LVP is 100% waterproof, costs $6-12 per square foot installed, and many products convincingly mimic hardwood or stone. It's warmer underfoot than tile - a real advantage during Ottawa winters - and more forgiving if you drop something.
Installation considerations for Ottawa homes include ensuring proper subfloor preparation, especially in older homes where settling may have created uneven surfaces. The Ontario Building Code requires proper ventilation in bathrooms, which helps any flooring choice perform better. If you're in an older Ottawa home with original hardwood subfloors, your contractor may need to add a cement backer board for tile installation, which adds to the cost but ensures long-term success.
Professional installation is highly recommended for tile work, as improper installation can lead to water damage, loose tiles, and costly repairs. The waterproofing membrane, proper slope to drains, and correct grout selection all require expertise to get right.
For a free estimate on your bathroom flooring project and to discuss which option best suits your specific Ottawa home, contact Justyn Rook Contracting. We can assess your subfloor condition and help you choose flooring that will perform beautifully for decades.
This response was generated by Construction Brain, an AI assistant. While we base our answers on industry standards and local Ottawa/Ontario requirements, please verify all current regulations, codes, and requirements from their respective sources:
- Permit requirements: City of Ottawa Building Services
- Ontario Building Code: ontario.ca
- Electrical permits: Electrical Safety Authority (ESA)
For project-specific guidance, request a free consultation with our team.
Follow-up Questions
Is there actually any issue with installing luxury vinyl plank in the bathroom instead of tile?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) can actually work very well in bathrooms when properly installed - the key issues to watch for are seam sealing, subfloor preparation, and choosing truly waterproof (not just water-resistant) products.
The biggest concern with LVP in Ottawa bathrooms isn't the material itself, but rather installation quality around high-moisture areas. Even 100% waterproof LVP can fail if water gets underneath through poorly sealed seams, especially around the toilet flange, tub surround, or shower threshold. Unlike tile with grout that can be easily resealed, LVP relies on tight seams and proper perimeter caulking to keep water out.
Climate considerations for Ottawa homes include our significant temperature swings, which can cause expansion and contraction in vinyl products. Quality LVP handles this well, but cheaper products may develop gaps at seams over time. During our humid summers followed by dry winter heating, these gaps can become entry points for moisture. The subfloor preparation is crucial - any flex or movement in the subfloor will eventually cause seams to open up.
Where LVP excels in Ottawa bathrooms is comfort and practicality. It's significantly warmer underfoot during our long winters, more comfortable to stand on during morning routines, and much more forgiving if you drop something. Installation is also faster and less disruptive than tile work, and quality LVP can last 15-20 years with proper care.
Professional installation becomes critical for bathroom LVP to address moisture barriers, proper acclimation to your home's temperature, and meticulous seam sealing. The perimeter must be properly caulked with bathroom-grade silicone, and transition strips at doorways need careful attention. Many DIY LVP failures in bathrooms stem from inadequate sealing rather than product failure.
Product selection matters significantly - look for LVP specifically rated for bathrooms with attached underlayment and rigid core construction. Expect to invest $6-12 per square foot for quality bathroom-rated LVP installed properly.
The bottom line: LVP can absolutely work in Ottawa bathrooms, but it requires more attention to installation details than tile. For a professional assessment of whether LVP suits your specific bathroom layout and usage patterns, contact Justyn Rook Contracting for a free consultation.
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