How to Remodel a Bathroom Floor

A bathroom floor remodel refreshes the room, giving it a new look. Whether the floor is the only project or it's part of an entire room makeover, the remodel process requires preparation and planning for a successful finish. The moisture levels in the average bathroom mean the flooring material selection is an important part of the project. Establish your spending limits for the flooring remodel before you make any decisions so that you can keep the project on track.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Flooring
• Adhesive

Instructions

1. Take measurements of the bathroom area to use for purchasing flooring materials. Leave out areas that won't receive flooring such as the bathtub area or any nooks in the room. Draw a sketch of the bathroom floor plan with the measurements for a visual reference during the remodeling project.

2. Select the new flooring material for the bathroom. Tile, laminate and vinyl floors are favorite choices for bathrooms. Hardwood flooring and carpet don't work well in bathrooms because of the moisture in the room. Consider the style of your bathroom to determine which flooring material works the best.

3. Remove the baseboards and the toilet to make the project easier. Tear out the old flooring. Remove the old adhesive and remnants of the flooring to create a smooth surface for the new floor.

4. Inspect the bathroom subfloor. Look for signs of mold or decay, weak spots or screws that have popped up. Water damage is common in bathroom subfloors, particularly near the bathtub and sink. Replace any damaged sections to prevent further problems. Fix the screws that aren't secure.

5. Determine if you will handle the floor installation yourself or hire a contractor. Consider your confidence in your home improvement skills. Tile is relatively easy to install while vinyl flooring presents more challenges. Install the new bathroom flooring according to the proper installation procedures if you're handling the work yourself.

6. Replace the toilet once the flooring is complete. Put the old baseboards back up or install new ones.

References

• Bathroom Flooring