Bathroom Flooring Ideas on a Budget

Are you looking to spruce up your bathroom and give it a fresh look without breaking the bank? Look no further! There are plenty of cost-effective options out there that can give your bathroom the makeover it needs while still being budget-friendly.

From sheet vinyl to classic ceramic and porcelain, we’ll explore some of the best bathroom flooring ideas on a budget that will make the space look and feel brand new.

9 Inexpensive Bathroom Flooring Options

The bathroom is a small space compared to other rooms, but it is a high-traffic area. Apart from that there is a high chance of water damage. Considering all these factors, you need to pick a flooring material that is resistant to stains and water damage, as well as easy to install. 

Vinyl Tiles

Vinyl is a versatile and budget-friendly choice if you are looking for easy-to-install, inexpensive, and trendy flooring. There are two types of standard vinyl flooring: vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl. Vinyl tiles provide good insulation and can be integrated with underfloor heating systems.

Vinyl tiles are one of the best shower floor ideas primarily because of their slip-resistant quality. However, sheet vinyl may be more water-resistant than vinyl tiles.

Cost:

• $0.50 to $2 per square foot for the materials
• $3 to $10 per square foot for labor costs

Sheet Vinyl

Consider using sheet vinyl if you’re looking for small bathroom flooring ideas. It can typically cover the entire bathroom floor in a single, uninterrupted sheet. This leaves the floor with little or no seams through which water can seep. Unfortunately, even though sheet vinyl is cheaper than tiles, it is prone to discolouration and can be more difficult to repair.

Cost:

• $1 to $2 per square foot for the materials
• $1 to $2 per square foot for labor costs

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tiles are one of the best bathroom flooring ideas on a budget because of their low moisture absorption rate. Made from fine clays fired at high temperatures, they are the perfect fit for a humid environment. Additionally, because of their ability to resist floor cracking, frosting, and stains, porcelain tiles are very durable.

Whether you want your flooring to look like marble, slate, or granite, porcelain tiles come in different colours and patterns. They are usually more cumbersome to install than ceramic tiles. Therefore, hiring an experienced contractor would be a good idea. Despite its high durability, porcelain can occasionally chip, especially around the edges.

Cost: 

• $2 to $10 per square foot for the materials
• $4 to $14 per square foot for labor costs

Ceramic Tile

Like porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles are a stylish and easy option for a cheap bathroom floor makeover. They are also very resistant to water, cracks, and slips after cleaning. However, they are less resistant to stains than porcelain tiles. 

Additionally, ceramic tiles come in different colours and patterns. Standard stock tile for a small area like the bathroom is typically more affordable, while speciality tiles, such as glass tiles, will cost more.

Cost:

• $5 to $90 per square foot, depending on the quality and style of the materials
• $4 to $14 per square foot for labor costs

Concrete Flooring

Concrete is back in style and can add a modern touch to your bathroom design. Like vinyl flooring, concrete can be easily integrated with underfloor heating systems. Because it’s so durable, it is an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as the bathroom. Plus, it’s easy to clean and maintain.

Concrete is hard but also porous, which means it does not retain heat very well. If your floor is above-ground, the contractor will likely need to install another layer before pouring the concrete. This may cost an additional $4 to $6 per square foot to install. However, if there is an existing concrete floor, it will be more affordable.

Cost:

• $3 to $8 per square foot for one layer of stain; $5 to $15 for more elaborate designs
• $2 to $15 per square foot for labor costs

Waterproof Laminate Flooring

Laminate is an affordable wood-based flooring option that’s easy to install. However, one downside of traditional laminate flooring is that it is easily damaged by water. That’s why it would be better to opt for a waterproof version.

Waterproof laminate flooring has become a popular choice for families with kids and pets. It protects the floor from spills and scratches and can be easily cleaned with a mop.

Cost:

• $3 to $5 per square foot for the materials
• $2 to $3 per square foot for labor costs

Patterned Bathroom Floor Tiles

Patterned floor tiles are an easy bathroom flooring option that will always stay in style. From Victorian-style patterns to Stracciatella ivory terrazzo, patterns can add personality and comfort to your newly decorated home without breaking your home improvement budget.

Smaller tiles are better for creating a character. A pro tip is to use the same tiles for the bathroom floor and walls in small bathrooms. This can create a corridor effect and make your bathroom appear much larger.

Cost:

• $2 to $60 per square foot, depending on the style and quality of the materials
• $4 to $25 per square foot for labor costs

Linoleum Flooring

Despite looking similar to vinyl flooring, linoleum is made from natural materials, while vinyl is synthetic. Linoleum is made of a mix of linseed oil and wood, resulting in antimicrobial and resistant flooring.

Linoleum flooring comes in various forms, including tiles, sheets, and planks. Linoleum sheets may be the cheapest option, with fewer seams and joints for water to penetrate. However, because of its natural base, linoleum flooring may darken or turn yellow over time if exposed to direct sunlight.

Cost:

• $2 to $2.50 per square foot for the materials
• $3.50 to $5 per square foot for labor costs

Floor Paint

We can’t talk about bathroom flooring ideas on a budget without mentioning floor paint. All you need is to take a roller frame and paint and cover the tiles, laminate, and hardwood.

When you paint your bathroom floor, aim for lighter colours, such as white or light beige. And no matter what paint you use, the floor will need to be refreshed from time to time. It may not be the most durable option in the long run, but it sure is an affordable temporary fix.

Cost:

• $2 to $4 per square foot for the floor paint
• $2 to $4 per square foot for labor costs 

Bottom Line

When it comes to bathroom flooring ideas on a budget, there are a number of options that you can consider. For instance, concrete tiles, prefinished hardwood, vinyl tiles, and linoleum are some of the most cost-effective ways to update your bathroom. No matter what bathroom flooring you choose, make sure that it complements the rest of the bathroom decor.