Vinyl, Tile & Microcement Floors: A Complete Guide

When it comes to designing a wetroom, choosing the right flooring is important for both aesthetics and functionality. The perfect flooring not only enhances the visual appeal of your space,  but matters for safety, durability, and ease of maintenance. 

As wetroom specialists in the UK, we understand that navigating the various flooring options can be overwhelming. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you understand the pros and cons of three popular wetroom flooring choices: vinyl, tile, and microcement.

Whether you're renovating an existing bathroom or planning a new wetroom installation, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Vinyl Flooring: Versatile and Cost-Effective

Vinyl flooring has come a long way in recent years to now offering a variety of designs and textures that can mimic natural materials like wood or stone. It is a popular choice for wetrooms due to its water-resistant properties and affordability. Vinyl is waterproof, slip-resistant, and easy to clean and maintain. It's comfortable underfoot and warmer than tiles, available in a variety of designs and colours, making it a cost-effective option for homeowners.

However, vinyl flooring may not be as durable as other options and can be prone to scratching or denting. It is also worth noting that some high-end vinyl options can be as expensive as natural materials. Installation of vinyl flooring in a wetroom requires careful preparation to ensure a watertight finish. 

Tile Flooring: Classic and Durable

Tiles have been a staple in bathroom design for centuries, and for good reason. They offer unparalleled durability and water resistance, making them an excellent choice for wetrooms. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most common options for wetroom flooring. They come in a vast array of colours, sizes, and textures, allowing for creative design possibilities.

Natural stone tiles, such as slate or marble, can also be used for a more luxurious look, but require adequate sealing to prevent water absorption.

When choosing tiles for your wetroom, consider the following:

1. Slip resistance: Opt for tiles with a textured surface or small mosaics that provide a better grip when wet.

2. Size: Larger tiles can create a sense of space, while smaller tiles offer more slip resistance.

3. Grout lines: Wider grout lines provide better slip resistance but require more maintenance.

4. Colour: Darker colours can make a space feel smaller but are more forgiving in terms of showing dirt or stains.

Microcement: Modern and Seamless

Microcement is a relatively new player in the wetroom flooring arena, gaining popularity for its sleek, contemporary look and seamless finish. This cement-based coating is applied in thin layers over existing surfaces, creating a waterproof and highly durable floor.

Key features of microcement flooring include its seamless finish, ideal for creating a modern, minimalist look. It is extremely thin and can be applied over existing flooring without much height increase. Microcement is highly customisable, available in various colours and can be textured for slip resistance. When sealed properly, it is waterproof and stain-resistant. It's also suitable for use with underfloor heating like mats and thermostats.

Microcement requires professional application for proper waterproofing and durability. It's also worth noting that the seamless nature of microcement means that any cracks in the subfloor may eventually show through.

Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Wetroom

When deciding between vinyl, tile, and microcement for your wetroom floor, consider the following factors:

• Budget: Vinyl is generally the most cost-effective option, while microcement tends to be the most expensive due to specialised installation.

• Aesthetics: Consider the overall design of your wetroom and choose a flooring option that complements your vision.

• Maintenance: Vinyl and microcement are generally easier to clean than tiles with grout lines.

• Durability: Tiles and microcement offer superior longevity compared to vinyl.

• Installation: Both tile and microcement require professional installation for best results, especially in a wetroom setting.

• Comfort: Vinyl and microcement tend to be warmer underfoot compared to tiles.

• Accessibility: Consider slip resistance and ease of movement, especially for users with mobility issues.

Wetroom Flooring Solutions from Wetroomstop

We understand that the success of any wetroom depends on effective drainage, regardless of your chosen flooring type. Our high-quality linear shower drains are  designed to complement a variety of flooring options for optimal performance and style for your wetroom: 

Linear drains for tiled floors

For tiled floors, our specialised linear drains for tiled floors integrate seamlessly with your chosen tiles for a sleek and uniform look. These drains are available in various lengths and finishes, allowing you to customise your wetroom's appearance as you please. 

Linear drains for vinyl floors

If you've opted for vinyl flooring in your wetroom, our linear drains for vinyl floors are created to work perfectly with vinyl sheets. These drains feature a clamping edge that secures the vinyl in place, preventing water ingress and for a watertight seal.

Linear drains for microcement floors

For those choosing the modern, seamless look of microcement, we offer linear drains for microcement floors. These drains are designed to be installed flush with the microcement surface, maintaining a smooth, continuous aesthetic that provides excellent drainage performance.

Our range of linear shower drains complements your chosen flooring but also enhances the overall functionality and aesthetics of your wetroom. Contact us for advice on choosing the right floor for your wetroom today.