Seniors are a vulnerable population and should be afforded the best possible care. This includes ensuring that they have a safe place to shower. Shower floors can become slippery and dangerous very easily, especially if they’re not properly maintained.
To help seniors stay safe and slip-free while showering. We will take you to these various material options available for shower floors, their features, and alternatives that are best for seniors.
We hope this information will help keep seniors safe and comfortable in their bathrooms!
Shower Flooring Material Options
When it comes to showering, seniors should be sure to choose the flooring that will not slip and make them fall. There are a variety of shower flooring materials that seniors can choose from, each with its own unique benefits.
Here are the top six shower flooring materials for seniors:
1. Rubber
Rubber flooring is the safest for seniors because it is slip-resistant even when wet. Its absorbency is another significant advantage.
A fall on rubber flooring would likely be less painful than a fall on hard surfaces. Rubber flooring’s cushioning and installation make it a warmer surface, which helps keep seniors more comfortable.
Aside from the numerous advantages that rubber flooring provides seniors, it also comes in various color options. It is simple to maintain, making it a functional and aesthetic flooring solution.
These are just a few of the reasons why rubber is the best material for shower and bath mats.
2. Porcelain
For most homeowners, porcelain tile flooring is the best overall choice. Porcelain and ceramic tile are highly long-lasting. This tile is resistant to wear, scratching, chipping, and cracking because it is tough and dense.
It is not only beautiful, but it is also extremely durable and water-resistant. It is also available in various finishes, sizes, and textures to complement any design or look.
However, the high quality and ease of maintenance come at a cost and would not be suitable for those on a tight budget.
3. Vinyl
Vinyl flooring is waterproof and simple to preserve. Furthermore, vinyl planks are smooth, making it easy for seniors to move around on foot or with a wheelchair or walker. However, there is one word of caution!
Because vinyl flooring isn’t as soft as rubber or cork, the landing will be hard in the event of a fall. You may need to invest money and time to add cushioning using a cork underlayment. Vinyl is visually appealing and easy to clean and maintain.
As a result, it appears to be an ideal choice for seniors who live alone or in an independent living facility. However, as previously stated, use it in areas where tripping is not a concern.
4. Cork
Cork flooring has a soft feel that is more inviting than cold tile. Its textured surface is also non-slip. Its springy think makes it one of the most secure flooring options.
Cork floors are water-resistant rather than waterproof, making them unsuitable for children’s bathrooms with frequent splashes and spills.
Cork floors require less installation expertise than tile or stone. Still, they need a polyurethane coat, which may be intimidating to a novice DIYer. Its price varies depending on the quality and thickness of the cork, and this flooring is less expensive than other options.
5. Bamboo
Some bathroom settings benefit from bamboo flooring. These products have attractive looks and trendy designs.
It is a popular choice among eco-conscious seniors because of its environmental benefits. They are a good choice for those who want to reduce the amount of sound that travels through space.
They are also a warmer option than using tiles. Bamboo flooring is capable of absorbing moisture. It reduces the likelihood of a slip and fall.
Water is absorbed into the material more effectively, leaving less water on the surface. It varies by product. Some are more watertight than others. Though it is a strong and durable material that is easy to clean, mildew and mold can grow if the moisture does not dry properly.
6. Linoleum or Laminate Flooring
Another suitable bathroom flooring alternative to tile is laminate flooring. These floors have a clear plastic protectant on top that makes them water-resistant and scratch-resistant.
Laminate flooring is also available in various patterns and colors, some of which resemble stone and wood flooring. If you have an average-sized bathroom, you can typically install laminate yourself in a day.
Features of Shower Flooring
There are many benefits to choosing a shower floor that is non-slip. Not only will you be able to keep your shower floor safe and clean, but you will also enjoy an aesthetic that looks great and is easy to maintain.
Some of the features to look for in a non-slip shower floor are:
Aesthetic
Aesthetic design is related to the quality of the materials used in building. It will also have an effect on the look and feel of your bathroom, which makes it a very important factor in choosing the right shower flooring.
Maintenance
Maintenance of flooring is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best non-slip shower flooring option. It should be easy to clean and prevent grime buildup. The better it is maintained, the longer it will last.
Safety
Slip-resistant shower floors are designed to help prevent falls by providing a stable surface where people can stand without slipping or sliding.
The best materials have a design that allows them to absorb and disperse water but not allows it to seep through the material. This helps prevent slips and falls in wet areas making it easier to maneuver in and out of the shower.
Durability
The durability of a flooring product is measured by its ability to withstand moisture, abrasion, and other factors that can cause it to wear out over time.
Cost
The cost of a non-slip shower flooring depends on many factors, including where you live and what type of installation process you will go through.
For example, if you are planning to install it yourself, the price would be lower. The most expensive ones are those with the highest quality and durability.
Material Comparison
There’s nothing like a relaxing bath after a long day. But sometimes, the bathtub can be slippery, especially if you have mobility problems.
That’s why it’s important to have a non-slip shower flooring option that is both safe and comfortable for seniors.
Here are the five best non-slip shower floors for seniors:
Based Material Comparison
Pebbles
The walk-in shower that has pebble flooring and flat-topped rocks feels great on the feet and is naturally slip-resistant.
Non-Slip Vinyl
Vinyl is unquestionably the best option for non-slip flooring. Its flooring has a higher resistance to heavy traffic and moisture due to practicality, affordability, and various available styles.
It is an excellent choice for your bathroom and other high-traffic areas such as entryways and kitchens.
Best Green Shower Floor Option
Wood and Bamboo
Hardwood and bamboo flooring have a soft, natural appearance. It’s generally simple to clean and maintain, and natural hardwood or bamboo flooring looks unrivaled.
Your bathroom will look fantastic with mat flooring. They are also the best eco-friendly shower flooring when made from certified sustainable materials.
These slatted wooden mats allow water to drain. This type of flooring is a shower drain insert. These mats are water resistant if adequately sealed. They are also non-slip by nature.
Best Budget-Friendly Shower Floor
Acrylic and Fiberglass
Acrylic and fiberglass are the least expensive materials. They aren’t the most attractive, but they are functional, long-lasting, and simple to clean.
Most Durable Shower Floor
Enameled Cast Iron
An enameled cast-iron base is a solid option — it’s a material that has stood the test of time because it doesn’t crack. Having doubts about using it for your new shower floor can be washed away.
Easiest to Clean Shower Floor Option
Acrylic and Fiberglass
They are among the easiest to clean because they come in a single sheet, eliminating the need for grout, which is difficult to clean and a potential source for mold and mildew.
Available Alternatives
Installing an anti-slip shower mat is the simplest way to make your shower floor less slippery. They’re inexpensive, simple to install, and immediately add texture to your floor, reducing your chances of slipping.
If you don’t like the idea of an anti-slip shower mat, you can install clear anti-slip adhesive treads or apply an anti-slip formula designed specifically for showers and baths.
In addition to adding traction with a shower mat, adhesive treads, or anti-slip formulas, it’s a good idea to install a grab bar in your shower to catch your balance if you ever feel yourself starting to slip.
Summary and Final Recommendations
The shower floor or bathroom is one of the most unsafe places in your home. But it doesn’t have to be for long.
You have a few options for addressing the issue, including choosing the best anti-slip shower floor, purchasing a shower mat, or installing an entirely new shower.
Consider a more solid surface that is more suitable for older adults. Your needs determine the best option. Always remember that a non-slip mat is the best option for slippery floors.
What have you tried to make the shower floors or bathtubs of your elderly loved ones less slippery? Please let us know if you discovered a new solution while reading our articles.
Please share your experiences in the comments section and pass our advice to your friends and family.
Sources:
- https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/best-shower-flooring-options/
- https://www.thespruce.com/porcelain-tile-vs-ceramic-tile-1822583
- https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/what-are-the-best-shower-flooring-options/
- https://housegrail.com/types-of-shower-flooring/
- https://homedecorbliss.com/bathroom-flooring-alternatives-to-tile/
- https://mccoymart.com/post/flooring-options-to-make-your-bathroom-skid-proof/
- https://www.porcelanosa.com/trendbook/uk/non-slip-flooring-tiles/
- https://bathroomprosnj.com/blog/what-is-the-best-non-slip-bathroom-flooring/
- https://www.homesandgardens.com/ideas/non-slip-bathroom-flooring-ideas
