By Elwin Ordoyne, Vice President, E.C.O. Builders Inc., Slidell, Louisiana
Bathrooms are some of the most demanding spaces in any structure. Whether in a residential home or a commercial building, these rooms are constantly exposed to moisture, temperature swings, and high foot traffic. That combination makes flooring choices especially important. In South Louisiana, where humidity is already part of daily life, choosing the wrong bathroom flooring can turn into a maintenance nightmare.
Over the years, I’ve seen how different materials perform under wet and humid conditions. Some hold up beautifully. Others don’t stand a chance. This guide breaks down the flooring options that make the most sense in bathrooms—based on durability, water resistance, and long-term performance.
Porcelain and Ceramic Tile
Porcelain and ceramic tiles remain the most commonly installed materials in bathrooms, and for good reason. They’re water-resistant, easy to clean, and available in just about every color and pattern imaginable. Porcelain is denser and less porous than ceramic, which makes it particularly well-suited for wet areas.
Both options work well in residential and commercial bathrooms, especially when paired with a proper underlayment and waterproof grout. One of the main concerns is traction—smooth tiles can become slippery when wet, so textured finishes or smaller tiles with more grout lines are often better in high-traffic or shared spaces.
These tiles are also highly durable, but installation is key. If the tile is laid without adequate prep or waterproofing underneath, water can still seep through the subfloor over time. When done correctly, though, tile is one of the most dependable choices for moisture-prone spaces.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Tile (LVT)
Luxury vinyl has come a long way in recent years. Modern LVP and LVT options feature waterproof cores, strong wear layers, and realistic surface textures that replicate wood, stone, and even tile. These materials snap together or glue down, forming a tight, durable surface that stands up well to water.
This flooring option is especially popular in bathrooms that see a lot of use—kids’ bathrooms, guest bathrooms, and small commercial spaces. It’s warmer underfoot than tile and easier to install. Some versions even include an integrated underlayment that adds cushion and absorbs sound.
Installation still matters. Any gaps between planks or improper sealing along the edges can let moisture sneak underneath. And while the material itself is waterproof, the subfloor usually isn’t. Using a moisture barrier or waterproof underlayment can extend the life of the installation.
Natural Stone
Stone adds weight, durability, and a higher-end look to a bathroom. Slate, granite, and marble are the most common options. Each of them has pros and cons, but all share one thing in common—they need sealing. Natural stone is porous. Without proper treatment, water can soak in, causing stains or mildew growth.
When maintained properly, natural stone holds up well in wet spaces. It’s heavy and long-lasting, but requires some upkeep. Regular sealing is non-negotiable, especially in humid regions like ours.
This type of flooring works well in bathrooms that prioritize both durability and design. It’s more expensive than vinyl or ceramic, but when properly installed and maintained, it can last for decades.
Concrete
Concrete is often overlooked, but in the right setting, it makes a lot of sense. In new construction or homes built on a slab, concrete can be polished, stained, or stamped to create a durable, waterproof surface.
Sealing is essential here, too. Concrete is naturally porous, so without a proper topcoat, water can seep in. But once sealed, it becomes highly resistant to moisture and easy to maintain.
This option is ideal in modern design settings or when working within a commercial space where durability is a bigger priority than warmth or texture. Anti-slip additives can also be included in the sealer to reduce the risk of slips when the floor is wet.
Sheet Vinyl
Sheet vinyl isn’t as trendy as some newer options, but it remains practical—especially for large bathrooms or utility areas. It’s installed in one continuous roll, minimizing seams and creating an effective moisture barrier.
Newer versions offer better visuals, including wood and stone patterns. The biggest risk with sheet vinyl comes from poor installation. If the edges aren’t sealed properly or seams are exposed, water can find its way underneath and cause bubbling or damage to the subfloor.
Sheet vinyl is a good choice for secondary bathrooms or rental properties, where cost and ease of installation are more important than luxury appeal.
Materials to Avoid
There are certain materials that just aren’t cut out for bathrooms. Solid hardwood, for example, doesn’t do well in environments with moisture. The boards expand, contract, and can warp quickly. Laminate is slightly better, but water can still penetrate the seams and cause swelling.
Carpet is another no-go. It holds moisture, takes forever to dry, and creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew. Even water-resistant varieties don’t hold up well over time when exposed to regular splashes and spills.
Final Thoughts
In South Louisiana, where humidity and moisture are part of everyday life, flooring choices for bathrooms aren’t just about looks—they’re about performance. A high-quality floor should resist water, provide safety underfoot, and stand up to frequent cleaning and wear.
Whether it’s porcelain tile in a primary suite, vinyl plank in a guest bathroom, or sealed concrete in a commercial restroom, the right material can make all the difference. The goal is to build something that lasts—and to avoid problems that come from picking a product not made for the environment it’s being used in.
Each job is different. But in a place like Slidell—or anywhere along the Gulf Coast—moisture is always part of the equation. The flooring should reflect that reality from the start.
