Bathrooms in Texas work hard. Between humidity, temperature swings, and busy family routines, your floor needs to be beautiful, waterproof, and easy to live with. At Hilton’s Flooring, we help homeowners compare bathroom-friendly materials every day. Here’s what to know about tile, luxury vinyl (LVP/LVT), and waterproof laminate—plus where each one shines.
Why Bathroom Floors in Texas Need Extra Attention
Moisture is the big factor. Steam from hot showers, splashes around tubs, and everyday cleaning products can stress a floor that isn’t designed for wet areas. You’ll also want slip resistance, simple maintenance, and styles that play nicely with the rest of your home. If you’re considering a full bath update, our team can coordinate floors with shower walls and tile details through our shower remodeling services.
Ceramic & Porcelain Tile: The Long-Term Workhorse
Tile remains the most proven bathroom flooring for water resistance and durability. Porcelain is especially dense and less porous than ceramic, which makes it a standout for wet rooms and high-traffic spaces. With the right grout and sealer, tile stands up to steam, splashes, and frequent cleaning without warping or swelling.
What homeowners like
- Excellent water resistance and long-term durability
- Wide range of looks: marble visuals, modern concrete, wood-look planks
- Great with radiant heat systems
- Easy to sanitize
What to plan for
- Grout needs occasional sealing and cleaning
- Tile can feel cool/firm underfoot; add area rugs or radiant heat for comfort
If you’re leaning tile, this quick guide to the benefits of tile flooring is a helpful place to start, and you can see options in person in our tile & stone flooring section.
Luxury Vinyl (LVP/LVT): Waterproof, Comfortable, Stylish
Modern luxury vinyl brings waterproof construction, softer underfoot feel, and tons of design options—perfect for family bathrooms and powder rooms. Its layered build (with a rigid core, wear layer, and realistic print film) offers strong dent/scratch resistance and simple maintenance. Many homeowners pick LVP for kids’ baths or guest baths where comfort and easy cleanups matter most.
What homeowners like
- 100% waterproof planks and tiles for stress-free cleanups
- Warmer and quieter underfoot than tile
- Wood and stone visuals that pair well with any vanity style
- Budget-friendly without looking “budget”
What to plan for
- Choose the right wear layer and core (SPC/WPC) for best durability
- Use bath mats near tubs/showers to catch standing water
Curious why LVP is surging in popularity? See our rundown of the six benefits of vinyl flooring and browse options in our vinyl flooring department.
Waterproof Laminate: The Newcomer with Realistic Texture
Waterproof laminate has improved dramatically, with tight locking systems and moisture-resistant cores that outperform older laminates in splash zones. Many products also have embossed textures and beveled edges for an ultra-real wood feel—great if you want the warmth of oak or hickory visuals without the maintenance of site-finished hardwood.
What homeowners like
- Authentic wood look/feel with practical waterproofing
- Strong scratch resistance for busy bathrooms
- Usually a DIY-friendlier installation than tile
What to plan for
- Confirm the product’s “waterproof” rating and perimeter sealing requirements
- Still avoid standing water—wipe up after baths and showers
If you’re comparing options, our overview of the benefits of laminate flooring lays out where today’s waterproof laminates fit best.
Slip Resistance, Grout, and Maintenance: Small Details, Big Payoff
- Slip resistance: Look for matte finishes and texture (especially on tile) to improve footing. Many porcelain tiles list a slip rating—ask us to show you the options best suited to bathrooms.
- Grout choices: Epoxy grout resists stains and moisture better than traditional cement grout. It’s an upgrade worth considering for kids’ or guest baths.
- Expansion gaps: For vinyl and waterproof laminate, proper expansion spacing and transitions are key to long-term performance in humid rooms.
- Cleaning: Neutral-pH cleaners keep finishes looking fresh without residue. Avoid steam mops on vinyl/laminate unless the manufacturer specifically approves them.
Design Pairings That Always Work
- Spa-calm primary baths: large-format porcelain tile with subtle veining + soft, warm vanity tones
- Family/kids’ baths: LVP in a lighter oak look + bright, wipe-clean paint + fun hardware
- Powder rooms: statement patterned tile or herringbone wood-look tile + matte black or brass fixtures
- Tight spaces: plank-format tiles or LVP laid lengthwise to visually elongate the room
Which Bathroom Flooring Should You Choose?
- Choose tile if you want the most time-tested, water-ready solution with premium resale value.
- Choose LVP if comfort, warmth, and easy maintenance are top priorities for a family bath.
- Choose waterproof laminate if you love wood texture and want a realistic look with everyday practicality.
Ready to compare samples side by side? Visit our Arlington showroom to feel the difference between tile, LVP, and waterproof laminate in person. You can start browsing styles online in our tile & stone flooring and vinyl flooring sections, or bring photos of your bathroom and we’ll help you narrow it down.
