Water & Moisture Resistant Engineered Wood Flooring For Bathrooms
Installing wood floors in bathrooms has traditionally been avoided due to concerns about moisture damage. However, advances in engineered wood flooring now make wood a viable and attractive option for bathroom floors.
Engineered wood is constructed of moisture-resistant plywood or high-density fiberboard topped with a layer of solid wood. This construction, along with special coatings, can resist water better than solid wood.
When properly installed and cared for, today’s engineered wood floors can stand up well to damp bathrooms. This guide will walk you through best practices for choosing, installing, and maintaining bathroom engineered wood flooring to minimize moisture risks.
Follow these tips, and you can enjoy the warmth and beauty of wood floors throughout your home.
Choosing Engineered Wood Floors for Bathrooms
Not all engineered wood floors are well-suited to bathrooms. When selecting floors, consider these key factors:
Water-Resistant Cores
The plywood or HDF cores of engineered flooring vary in density and water-resistance capabilities. Opt for the most moisture-resistant cores available, which will be less prone to swelling and warping.
Finish Protection
Factory-applied water-resistant surface finishes create a protective barrier against moisture. Urethane aluminum oxide is considered among the most durable bathroom floor finishes. Multiple coats further fortify defense against moisture.
Wide Planks vs Narrow Strips
Wide planks have more points of weakness for moisture to enter along the edges. Narrow strip floors present fewer opportunities for water damage between planks.
Warranties
See what moisture warranties apply. Many engineered wood floors come with limited bathroom installation warranties when installed properly. This helps ensure the floors can live up to damp bathroom conditions.
Low-Maintenance Species
Some wood species, like maple or ash, require frequent re-coating to maintain water protection. Heartier species like oak better withstand moisture.
By selecting engineered wood floors designed specifically to resist water, you can enjoy real wood floors throughout your home.
Proper Engineered Wood Floor Installation
Bathroom engineered wood flooring needs to be installed carefully and correctly to minimize moisture exposure and prevent future problems:
Leave Expansion Space
Wood floors expand and contract with changing humidity levels. Leave at least 1/2 inch expansion space around the perimeter of the floors during installation. This gives them room to swell and prevents buckling or damage.
Nail or Staple Every 4-6 Inches
Following the manufacturer’s recommended fastener schedule is crucial. This prevents the planks from warping or pulling apart when they expand or contract.
Use a Moisture Barrier
A 6-mil polyethylene moisture barrier provides an added layer of water protection. This goes down before installing the floors to block ground moisture.
Acclimate the Floors
Before installation, leave the flooring in the installation environment for 72+ hours to acclimate. This allows the planks to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity conditions.
Check the Subfloor
Make sure the plywood or concrete subfloor is flat and dry first. Address any uneven spots, cracks, or moisture issues before installation.
Leave Gaps Around Fixtures
Allow small gaps around toilets, tubs, pipes and other fixtures. This accommodates movement and expansion. Caulk can seal these gaps.
Proper set up and installation techniques reinforce moisture defense and prevent floor failures. Follow all manufacturer guidelines for best results.
Caring for Engineered Floors in Bathrooms
Installing engineered wood in bathrooms is just the starting point. Ongoing maintenance is crucial for keeping floors water-resistant and long-lasting:
Clean Up Spills Quickly
Never leave puddles or spills sitting on the floors. Always wipe up excess water immediately to prevent moisture damage.
Add Protectants
Using recommended wax or urethane touch up coats every 1-2 years provides added protection as floors age. This replenishes water defense.
Check Annually for Damage
Inspect floors once a year for any cracks, bubbles, or separation issues that allow moisture intrusion. Address right away before problems compound.
Monitor Humidity Levels
Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity between 30-50%. Excess moisture in the air can damage wood floors over time. Proper humidity helps them stay stable.
Avoid Standing Water
Repair any leaky fixtures, pipes, or appliances right away. Never let puddles stand on floors. Use waterproof floor mats around tubs and toilets.
Clean with Caution
Use only recommended wood floor cleaners. Avoid excessive water. Vinegar-based solutions are more wood-friendly for damp cleaning.
With vigilant care and maintenance, your bathroom engineered wood floors can remain beautiful and water-resistant for years. Be sure to follow all manufacturer care guidelines.
Engineered Wood Flooring FAQs
Still have some questions about using engineered wood in bathrooms? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Is engineered wood waterproof?
Engineered wood is not waterproof, but it is more water-resistant than solid wood when properly sealed and maintained. The layered construction and modern finishes help minimize moisture damage.
Can you use engineered wood in a bathroom?
Yes, many modern engineered wood floors are specially designed for bathroom use. Look for bathroom warranties and follow installation guidelines to ensure moisture resistance.
What is the most water resistant engineered wood?
Hickory and oak engineered woods tend to be most resistant to water damage. Opt for plywood over HDF cores for enhanced resistance as well. Durable aluminum oxide urethane finishes also boost protection.
How do you protect engineered floors from water?
Protect floors by sealing the edges, using waterproof mats, cleaning spills rapidly, maintaining indoor humidity, and reapplying protective finishes every 1-2 years.
Do engineered wood floors need underlayment?
Quality underlayments provide extra moisture, sound, and comfort benefits. Check manufacturer guidelines – many do recommend using underlayments, especially in bathrooms. Cork is a top choice.
Can engineered wood floors get wet?
Occasional limited moisture is ok, but engineered floors cannot withstand puddles, flooding, or excess dampness. Water can still damage them over time so they must be properly sealed and maintained.
With the right choice of flooring and careful installation, you can safely install durable, beautiful engineered wood floors throughout your home. Follow best moisture prevention practices and your bathroom floors can withstand the humidity and dampness issues that come with this high-traffic space. Reach out for help choosing the perfect long-lasting flooring.
