Should You Install Concrete or Tile in Your Bathroom?
Choosing the right flooring for your bathroom is important, given its constant exposure to moisture, temperature changes, and daily traffic. Your bathroom needs a surface that can handle it all and still look as good as you want it to. Concrete and tile are two popular options, and each has its own set of pros and cons. Here’s a deep dive into how concrete stacks up against tile regarding aesthetics, durability, maintenance, installation, cost, and overall bathroom suitability.
Comparing Aesthetics
Concrete
Concrete flooring in bathrooms has made a big comeback thanks to the rising popularity of cool, minimalist looks. Concrete might be right for you if you love a modern, industrial-style bathroom. Concrete typically comes in neutral shades like light gray or deeper charcoals, making it versatile enough to complement any decor or fixture. You can even customize concrete with stains, tints, or a polished finish for a glossy effect that reflects light beautifully. This can help smaller bathrooms feel more open and airy.
Tile
If variety is what you like, tile takes the win. From classic ceramic and porcelain to natural stones like marble and granite, tile comes in almost any color, pattern, and texture you can imagine. Tiles can mimic the look of other materials like wood or natural stone or bring in bold patterns that make a statement. Whether your bathroom style is traditional, eclectic, or ultra-modern, there’s a tile out there for you.
Strength and Water Resistance
Concrete
Concrete is known for being incredibly tough and resistant to scratches, but there’s a catch—because it’s naturally porous, it needs a high-quality sealant to keep out water and prevent stains. A properly sealed concrete floor can handle years of wear and tear. However, if the sealant wears down or isn’t maintained, water can seep in and cause issues that need fixing.
Traditional Tiles
Tile, especially porcelain and ceramic, is water-resistant. Its glazed surface repels moisture well, making it a go-to option for bathrooms. When installed correctly with grout and sealant, it forms a watertight barrier. Tiles are also scratch-resistant and won’t stain easily. That said, the grout between tiles is more vulnerable. Without proper sealing and maintenance, grout can discolor or develop mold over time, so it needs regular cleaning to stay in good shape.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Concrete or Concrete Coatings
Concrete floors don’t require much to stay clean. A damp mop and mild soap are usually all you need. But here’s the thing: to keep concrete looking its best and to maintain its water resistance, you’ll need to reseal it periodically. If you neglect sealing, concrete can absorb stains and be tough to clean. For an even lower-maintenance option, consider polished or epoxy-coated concrete; both add an extra layer of stain resistance and durability.
Tiles
Tiles require regular, easy cleaning. Their non-porous surface repels most stains and dirt, so you can wipe them down with regular bathroom cleaners. The only caveat is their grouts: grout lines get dirty and are prone to mold, especially in a bathroom where moisture is constant. You’ll want to apply a grout sealer to protect against stains and mildew and an occasional scrub with a grout cleaner to keep your floors looking fresh.
Installation, Time, and Effort
Concrete
Installing concrete is not a typical DIY job, especially in a bathroom where waterproofing is essential. It involves pouring, leveling, and sealing the concrete, all of which takes time and precision. Some finishes, like polished or epoxy-coated concrete, add even more steps to the process. Plus, concrete needs time to set properly, so your bathroom will be off-limits for some time. If you’re considering a concrete bathroom floor, we recommend you get help from a pro.
Tiles
Tile installation, while detailed, is a project left best for professionals and experienced DIYers. You’ll need to prep the floor, lay a waterproof underlayment, secure the tiles with adhesive, and finish it off with grout. Professional installation may be best for complex designs or larger tiles.
Overall Cost
Concrete
Basic concrete flooring can be affordable. Installation costs usually include professional labor, waterproofing, and sealing products. On average, expect to pay between $3 to $10 per square foot for basic concrete flooring, with high-end custom finishes costing more.
Tiles
Tile prices vary widely based on the type and quality you choose. Basic ceramic and porcelain tiles can start at $1 to $5 per square foot, while high-end options like natural stone can jump to $10 to $30 or more. The cost of installation depends on factors like the tile size and design complexity. Tile can be cost-effective, but those high-end options can rival or exceed the price of concrete.
Comfort and Underfoot Warmth
Concrete
Concrete can feel pretty cold and hard underfoot, which isn’t ideal for a bathroom, especially in colder climates. While you can add radiant floor heating to make it more comfortable, it may add to overall cost and energy use.
Tiles
Tile can also be cold underfoot unless you have heated flooring underneath. Like concrete, tile pairs well with radiant heating, making it a good choice if you want a warmer, cozier bathroom floor. Natural stone tiles retain heat better than ceramic or porcelain, so keep that in mind if warmth is a priority.
Environmental Impact
Concrete
Concrete has a significant environmental footprint due to the cement production process, which generates a lot of CO2. That said, concrete’s longevity can be seen as a plus—since it doesn’t need to be replaced often, it contributes less waste over time. Using recycled materials in the concrete mix and opting for water-based sealers can help make it a more sustainable choice.
Tiles
The environmental impact of tile depends on the type you use. Ceramic and porcelain tiles generally have a lower footprint than concrete, though mining for natural stone can be resource-intensive. Many tiles today are made from recycled materials. Plus, because tile can last for decades without needing to be replaced, it’s a durable, eco-friendly option for long-term use.
Want to Know More About Installing Concrete Floors?
How do you decide whether concrete or tile is the best choice for your bathroom floor? You’ll need to consider your budget, maintenance needs, and overall design vision. Asking the right questions and seeking advice from experts can make this decision easier.
For concrete-specific guidance, consult the professionals at Concrete Coatings of Minnesota. We can help you understand the benefits and potential challenges of using concrete in your bathroom. If you choose to move forward with concrete, we’ll help you choose high-quality materials and deliver professional concrete installation and coating.
Ready to discuss your bathroom floor? Call us today at 651-458-0196!
