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5 alternatives to tiles in the bathroom

Looking for a unique way to enlighten your bathroom? Tired of the mundane tile designs and want to give your bathroom a much-needed upgrade? There are several alternatives which offer the perfect combination of aesthetics and practicality, such as wood, vinyl, metal, laminate flooring and wallpapers. Each provide their own unique advantages, from easy installation, better water resistance, cost-effectiveness, to the stylish designs, making them ideal replacements for tiles in your bathroom.

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Many homeowners are convinced that there is simply no replacement tile in the bathroom. Indeed, this option for finishing the wettest room in the house is the first thing that comes to mind. However, there are materials that make a good alternative to bathroom tiles. Our tips site will tell you about them.

Painted walls in the bathroom

Painted walls in the bathroom

Painted walls in the bathroom

The first option is paint

The portal devoted a separate article to the choice of paint for interior work. For the bathroom, we strongly advise you to choose silicate or silicone water-dispersion paints, as the most resistant to moisture and damage. And do not forget to pre-treat the walls with an anti-mold agent, choose paint with antibacterial properties..

Wallpaper in the bathroom

Wallpaper in the bathroom

Wallpaper in the bathroom

The second option is wallpaper

Certainly not paper! For the bathroom, you must choose a moisture-resistant, washable wallpaper. They have markings on the packaging – three waves and a brush. For example, vinyl wallpapers that are durable and thick enough to mask minor unevenness in the walls are a good choice. Liquid glass wallpaper is also suitable. By the way, if you didn’t know, today some manufacturers offer wallpaper with a protective coating, which can even be used for finishing the facades of buildings. In the bathroom, such wallpaper will definitely last a very long time..

Important! If you are still worried about the durability of the bathroom finish with paint and wallpaper, lay out the tiles in the wettest places – around the sink and the bath itself, in the place of the shower cubicle..

Wall panels in the bathroom

Wall panels in the bathroom

Option three – wall panels

Not PVC, not plastic – designers literally plead! Whichever color and option you choose, it will still look cheap. Wall panels made of MDF, which are not afraid of moisture, look much more attractive. There is a minus in finishing the bathroom with panels – precious centimeters of the area will be “eaten”. And plastic, as the designers assure, today will only be appropriate on the ceiling.

The most expensive finishing option is natural wood of moisture-resistant species, for example, larch and merbau, which has undergone a special treatment.

Bathroom Glass Panels

Bathroom Glass Panels

Option four – glass

Glass panels can not only fence off the shower stall, but also cover all the walls. And under the glass, place all the same wallpaper or paint a drawing with paint. It will turn out to be durable and beautiful, it is very difficult to damage the tempered glass. But the minus is obvious – all drops will be perfectly visible on the glass.

Concrete in the bathroom

Concrete in the bathroom

Brick wall in the bathroom

Option five – brick and concrete

Yes, such a brutal finish, or rather, its absence, is a fashion trend today. Therefore, you can leave one of the walls brick, use decorative concrete in a natural gray color throughout the room. By the way, designers assure that modern plumbing will look especially advantageous against such a neutral gray background. Just do not forget to cover the concrete and brick in the bathroom with a protective coating with antiseptic properties, a special varnish.

Of course, there are also alternatives to conventional bathroom tiles such as porcelain stoneware, mosaics, and natural stone. But these are either familiar or very expensive finishing options..

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Comments: 2
  1. Levi Cooper

    What are some alternatives to using tiles in the bathroom? I’m looking for different options that can still provide a stylish and practical finish.

    Reply
    1. Dominic Taylor

      Some alternatives to using tiles in the bathroom include:

      1. Paint: Use waterproof and mold-resistant paint to give a fresh and colorful look to your bathroom walls. It is a cost-effective option that offers endless color options.

      2. Wall panels: Opt for PVC, acrylic, or composite wall panels that mimic the appearance of tiles. They are easy to install, low-maintenance, and come in various designs and finishes.

      3. Wallpaper: Choose vinyl or moisture-resistant wallpaper designed specifically for bathrooms. It comes in a variety of patterns and textures, providing a stylish and personalized touch.

      4. Natural stone: Consider using natural stone slabs or veneers like marble, granite, or quartzite. They offer a luxurious and elegant finish, but may require professional installation and maintenance.

      5. Glass: Glass panels or mosaic sheets can be used to create a modern and sleek look. They are easy to clean and allow light to pass through, making the bathroom appear more spacious.

      6. Wood: Using waterproof engineered wood or hardwood panels can bring warmth and natural beauty to your bathroom. Ensure proper sealing and maintenance to prevent moisture damage.

      7. Concrete: For an industrial or contemporary look, consider using polished concrete on walls or floors. It is durable, easy to clean, and can be customized with different colors and finishes.

      Remember, when choosing alternatives to tiles, ensure that the materials are suitable for wet areas, durable, and resistant to mold and mildew growth.

      Reply
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