Perhaps you are building a new house, or you are simply renovating your old one. You then get to your bathroom and you wonder whether there are other options you can use for your shower walls apart from tiles.
Vinyl is an aesthetically appealing material, and chances are that it crosses your mind when thinking about alternative options. So, can you use vinyl flooring for shower walls? Well, no one can stop you if you want to, but it is not the best option.
Why? Simply because vinyl flooring is not designed to handle the constant exposure to moisture and water in your bathroom. However, there is a way around that if you can follow instructions and be cautious. Want to find out more? Keep it here!
Can Vinyl Flooring be Used on Shower Walls for Aesthetic Appeal?
We have already mentioned that vinyl flooring is not the best option for your shower walls because it does not hold up well in high-moisture areas. However, you can use it for aesthetic appeal but only if installed correctly where it does not directly come into contact with water.
If you have to use vinyl for your shower walls, ensure that you go for high-quality and preferably an option that is designed to withstand high moisture. Moreover, you want to prime and prepare your walls before installation to guarantee a solid bond as well as to prevent water damage.
Other than that, you want to keep in mind that since vinyl flooring is not a standard option for shower walls, chances are that your insurance company will not cover any accidents or damages.
Vinyl Flooring for Shower Walls
When it comes to vinyl flooring for shower walls, you can choose from several options including:
Rigid Core Vinyl
This is a variation of vinyl flooring that is popular because it is made with durability in mind as well as able to withstand more moisture compared to other vinyl options. It features several layers of material with the most important being a rigid core layer that provides additional strength and stability.
It also comes with a worn top layer that resists stains and scratches.
What most users will love about this option is that it comes in different textures, colors, and patterns. This makes it an ideal option for those who want to achieve the look of natural stone and wood but without the hefty cost and high maintenance.
Other than that, this type of vinyl is also water-resistant and easy to install making it a great option for laundry rooms and showers.
Luxury Vinyl Tile
This is another type of vinyl flooring that mimics the feel and look of materials like ceramic tile, stone, or wood. Just like Rigid core vinyl, it consists of a few layers of material including a core and wear layer.
LVT is popular for both domestic and commercial applications because it comes with many benefits over other flooring options. Generally, it costs less than natural materials like stone or hardwood, while offering the same look of these materials.
Moreover, LVT is low-maintenance and can be installed effortlessly. As if that is not enough, it comes in different textures, patterns, and colors hence allowing you to customize your space.
WPC Vinyl Flooring
Wood Plastic Composite vinyl flooring can be termed a type of luxury flooring option comprising a blend of wood plasticizers and wood fiber along with a core virgin PVC layer. Its core layer is for additional durability and stability, while its top layer primarily prevents water and moisture from seeping through.
Just like the other options we have discussed, this one is also easy to install using adhesive. Besides, it looks and feels like natural materials including stone and wood making it a preferred choice among homeowners.
Now, one of WPCs’ selling points is that it is able to withstand moisture and temperature fluctuations without buckling or warping. This makes it perfect for areas where the climate changes erratically.
Sheet Vinyl
Unlike the other options discussed, this one is made from a single vinyl sheet. Usually, it is sold in rolls that can be cut and installed using adhesive. Sheet vinyl flooring is easy to maintain and is durable; but above all, it is moisture and stain-resistant making it ideal for high-traffic areas such as your bathroom or kitchen.
It also comes in different textures, patterns, and colors some of which look like natural stone and wood. Most people choose sheet vinyl because it is cost-effective and easy to install. That means that you can afford it and install it yourself.
Moreover, it is versatile, in that it allows for cutting and shaping to facilitate fitting and ultimately ease of installation.
Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) also mimics the feel and look of natural flooring options like stone and wood. Again, it has several layers for supplementary stability and moisture resistance. You will realize that this is a popular option for domestic and commercial settings alike and rightfully so, because it has numerous advantages over traditional flooring options.
Additionally, it is less expensive while still offering an expensive high-end look. It is also easy to install and maintain making it ideal for the busy individual. Just like all the other options, LVP also comes in an array of textures, patterns, and colors.
What this does is that it allows for customization which is at times required to bring your bathroom together.
Installing Vinyl Flooring on Shower Walls
Now that you know what vinyl flooring options you can choose from for your shower walls, how about we get into the installation process?
Step 1 – Clean and Prime
First, you want to clean and prime your walls to remove debris, dirt, and grime. You can do this by sanding the wall to make it rougher so that the bond adheres better.
Step 2 – Measure and Cut
Next, you want to cut your material. However, you need to have measured your walls to determine the size you need.
Step 3 – Apply Adhesive
The next step involves applying waterproof adhesive to your vinyl. Ensure that the adhesive you are using is made for that kind of flooring and that it can withstand moisture. You then want to give the adhesive time to dry after pressing the vinyl on your walls.
At this point, you are ready to begin using your shower, so go ahead.