Can Vinyl Flooring Be Used in Shower Floors? The Complete Guide

Vinyl flooring has become an increasingly popular option for home renovations due to its affordability, easy installation, and waterproof properties. But can you use vinyl in showers? The answer is yes—vinyl flooring can make an excellent shower flooring material when properly installed and cared for.

In this complete guide, we will cover everything you need to know about using vinyl flooring in showers, including the benefits, things to consider, installation steps, maintenance, and more.

What Types of Vinyl Flooring Work for Showers?

There are a few main categories of vinyl flooring that are suitable for use in showers:

• Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): This is one of the most popular options, as LVP mimics the look of natural wood or stone but has a durable, 100% waterproof core. The planks lock together for easy DIY installation.

• Vinyl Tile: Vinyl tiles come in a range of styles, from stone and ceramic looks to solid colors. The tiles are applied using adhesive. They can be grouted for stability.

• Sheet Vinyl: This comes in a roll form and can offer cushioning underfoot. It is adhered to the subfloor in full sheets. The seams must be sealed.

All of these vinyl flooring types are designed to withstand water and moisture when properly installed. Be sure to choose vinyl flooring rated for bathrooms or showers specifically.

Why Use Vinyl Flooring in Showers?

There are several benefits that make vinyl an ideal material for shower floors:

• Waterproof: Vinyl is 100% waterproof, meaning water cannot penetrate the layers causing damage. This makes it very durable in wet environments.

• Affordable: Vinyl plank flooring costs $2-5 per square foot installed. This is significantly less than stone, tile, or wood floors.

• Low Maintenance: Vinyl resists scratches, stains, and wear well. It‘s easy to clean with just soap and water.

• Easy Installation: Many vinyl plank products click or lock together for simple DIY installation. No special skills or tools required.

• Versatile Styles: Vinyl comes in wood, stone, and tile looks to fit any design aesthetic. Many color and pattern options.

• Comfort & Warmth: Vinyl provides more cushioning and insulation underfoot than hard surfaces like tile.

For quick, affordable remodels, vinyl offers a reliable and attractive shower flooring solution.

Things to Consider Before Installing Vinyl in Showers

While vinyl flooring has many benefits for showers, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Slip Resistance

When wet, vinyl can be slippery. Look for vinyl flooring with textured embossing or slip-resistant coatings to improve traction. Using non-slip mats is also recommended.

Durability

The wear layer on vinyl plank flooring typically ranges from 20-40 mils thick. The thicker the layer, the more durable it will be. Tile-look vinyl also tends to last longer than stone or wood looks.

Moisture Resistance

Make sure the vinyl product you choose is rated as 100% waterproof. Also be sure to properly seal all seams and edges during installation.

Maintenance

Vinyl requires regular sweeping and mopping. Use only vinyl-safe cleaners. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, ammonia, etc.

Climate Considerations

Vinyl will expand and contract slightly with temperature changes. Leave expansion gaps during installation and avoid adhering vinyl to the subfloor around the perimeter.

With proper product selection and installation, vinyl can be a long-lasting flooring choice for showers.

How to Install Vinyl Flooring in a Shower

Installing vinyl flooring in a shower takes careful preparation and the right techniques to ensure everything stays watertight. Here are the step-by-step instructions:

Prep the Subfloor

Remove any existing flooring or tile down to the plywood or concrete subfloor. Inspect for damage and make repairs as needed. The subfloor must be completely dry.

Use floor leveling compound if necessary to create a flat surface.

Install Moisture Barrier

Roll out 6mil polyethylene sheeting over the entire subfloor, overlapping seams by 6 inches. The plastic will prevent moisture from seeping into the subfloor.

Alternatively, use a waterproofing liquid sealant following the product instructions.

Cut the Vinyl Planks

Measure the shower floor and dry lay the vinyl planks to map out your design.

Cut the planks as needed, leaving a 1/4 inch expansion gap along the walls. Use a utility knife and straightedge to score and snap the planks for clean cuts.

Start Laying Planks

Begin installing the vinyl planks in a corner, working from left to right. Lock the planks together on the sides and ends as you go. Use spacers to maintain the expansion gaps.

Stagger the end joints at least 6 inches between rows. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific product.

Seal the Planks

Use a silicone caulk to seal all edges and seams where the vinyl meets walls, corners, curbs, and fixtures. This prevents water from getting underneath.

For added protection, run a bead of flexible vinyl seam sealer inside the seams between planks as you install them.

Finish the Installation

Remove all spacers once the floor is installed. Add trim pieces as needed to cover expansion gaps and provide a finished look.

Follow any final steps recommended by the manufacturer such as applying a finish coat or waxing the vinyl planks.

The floor can be walked on immediately but avoid moving heavy furniture for 24 hours. Enjoy your new waterproof vinyl shower floor!

Maintaining Vinyl Floors in Showers

With proper care, vinyl floors can last for over 10 years in shower applications. Here are some tips for keeping your vinyl looking like new:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt, hair, and other debris that can scratch the floor.

• Mop only with vinyl-safe cleaners diluted in water. Avoid harsh chemicals.

• Immediately wipe up any spills or standing water. Don‘t allow moisture to seep into seams.

• Re-apply sealants or waxes as needed per the manufacturer’s recommendations. This protects the vinyl surface.

• Use non-slip bath mats inside and outside the shower for safety.

• Avoid dragging heavy objects directly across the vinyl to prevent gouges or tears.

• Inspect the caulk around fixtures, edges, and seams periodically. Re-caulk as needed to prevent moisture infiltration.

With proper installation and care, vinyl can be a budget-friendly and attractive flooring choice that stands up well in showers for years of enjoyment.