One of the most transformative—and surprisingly overlooked—ways to modernize an old bathroom is by updating the flooring and tile. Whether you’re dealing with cracked linoleum, faded grout lines, or a sea of outdated pink tile, swapping out those surfaces can breathe new life into the entire space.

I’ve spent the last eight years running a home renovation company here in California, specializing in bathroom design and remodels. As someone who’s walked clients through countless makeovers, I can tell you firsthand: choosing the right materials for your bathroom floors and walls doesn’t just change the look—it improves function, resale value, and even comfort.

If you’re planning to remodel a dated bathroom, here’s a rundown of today’s best flooring and tile options, along with when to call in a professional contractor to help you do it right.

Why Flooring and Tile Matter in Bathroom Design

When people think about bathroom updates, they usually jump to vanities or lighting fixtures. But flooring and tile take up more visual space than anything else. They set the tone. If they’re old, stained, or cracked, everything else you upgrade around them will still feel unfinished.

Beyond looks, bathroom surfaces also deal with constant moisture, foot traffic, and cleaning. You need materials that are water-resistant, slip-safe, and easy to maintain—without sacrificing style.

Top Bathroom Flooring Options for a Modern Look

1. Porcelain and Ceramic Tile

Still the gold standard for bathroom flooring, porcelain and ceramic tile are loved for their durability, water resistance, and endless design options. Porcelain is denser and better suited for wet areas like showers and floors, while ceramic is slightly more affordable and works well on walls and lower-traffic spaces.

Today’s styles go way beyond square white tiles. Think wood-look planks, large-format marble looks, and textured matte finishes for better slip resistance.

2. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

If you’re remodeling on a budget, LVT offers serious bang for your buck. It mimics the look of hardwood or stone, but it’s waterproof, soft underfoot, and extremely easy to install. This is one of my favorite options for clients who want style without the commitment of tile grout or cold floors.

Vinyl has come a long way—it’s now one of the most popular picks in California remodels.

3. Natural Stone

If you want a spa-like experience, natural stone like slate, travertine, or marble brings timeless elegance. Keep in mind, stone requires sealing and a bit more maintenance. But when installed correctly by a professional, it delivers stunning results that can elevate even the smallest bath.

I always recommend working with a bathroom remodeling contractor if you’re going this route. Stone is heavy, sensitive to subfloor leveling, and more complex to install than ceramic tile or vinyl.

4. Engineered Wood (For Powder Rooms)

Wood in a bathroom? Yes—but with limits. Engineered hardwood is more moisture-resistant than solid wood, making it a possible option for half baths or powder rooms where water exposure is minimal. I never recommend this for full bathrooms with showers or tubs.

Best Wall Tile Options to Replace Dated Styles

Subway Tile

Classic, clean, and always in style, subway tile is my go-to for clients who want a neutral look that won’t feel dated in five years. It pairs well with bold flooring or colorful accents and can be installed in fun patterns like herringbone or stacked vertical for a more contemporary twist.

Large-Format Tile

Using larger tiles on shower walls or bathroom backsplashes creates a seamless, spa-like feel and minimizes grout lines. If you’re tired of scrubbing grout, this option is both stylish and low-maintenance.

I recommend soft marble tones, concrete-look porcelain, or even matte black if you’re going for a bold, modern edge.

Mosaic and Accent Tile

If your bathroom is small, adding a mosaic accent strip or tiled shower niche can make a big visual impact without overwhelming the space. I’ve had clients completely refresh their bathrooms just by adding a glass mosaic detail to their shower wall or backsplash.

Choosing Grout Colors That Don’t Date Your Design

This is one of those tiny decisions that makes a huge difference. White grout is timeless but tough to keep clean in high-use areas. Gray or warm taupe grout hides dirt while complementing most modern tile shades.

For a bold look, black grout can highlight a geometric pattern or add contrast to white subway tile—just be prepared to commit to a dramatic style.

When to Call a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor

Some flooring and tile jobs can be tackled DIY if you have the time, tools, and patience. But I’ll be honest: removing old flooring, leveling subfloors, waterproofing, and setting tile correctly is more technical than it looks.

You should absolutely call in a licensed remodeling contractor if:

• Your floors are uneven or have water damage
• You’re changing the bathroom layout
• You’re removing old tile that’s attached with mortar
• You’re using heavy or natural stone materials
• You want a professional, clean finish that lasts

Contractors also ensure everything meets building codes and passes inspections, especially for projects that involve showers or waterproofing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re staring at cracked tiles, yellowing vinyl, or retro patterns that haven’t aged well, updating your bathroom flooring and tile is one of the smartest moves you can make. Not only does it boost the value of your home, it instantly upgrades your daily routine.

Take time to choose materials that match both your lifestyle and aesthetic. And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to bring in a professional who can help bring your vision to life—and do it right the first time.

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Written by Taylor Jones, a University of California graduate with a degree in interior design. I’m the owner of a successful home renovation company in California and a writer and editor for USA Shower and Bath. I specialize in bathroom remodeling, accessible home upgrades, and luxury bath installations, and have been helping homeowners fall in love with their bathrooms again for over eight years.