When choosing
flooring for wet areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and service areas, special attention is necessary. These areas of the house are constantly in contact with water, humidity, and cleaning products, which requires that the selected materials not only show resistance but also be safe for the movement of residents.
Hellen Pacheco Arquitetura e Design - Mediterrâneo em Mim. A procura por um lugar tranquilo, capaz de induzir ao recolhimento, fez a imaginação da designer de interiores Hellen Pacheco voar até as praias do Mar Mediterrâneo, inspiração para seu espaço de 47 m². Porém a referência ganhou uma interpretação cheia de brasilidade graças ao piso de porcelanato criado pela estilista carioca Isabela Capeto, que mistura diversos padrões geométricos. Louças e metais na cor ébano trazem o contraponto moderno. Nomes importantes do design nacional, como Roberta Banqueri e Zanini de Zanine, assinam o mobiliário. É a primeira participação da profissional na CASACOR. (André Mortatti/CASACOR)
Choosing the right flooring for wet areas can be a complex task. In addition to aesthetic aspects, it is essential to consider
durability,
water resistance and stain resistance,
non-slip characteristics, and
cleaning ease. An inadequate material can deteriorate quickly under humidity conditions, resulting in maintenance and replacement costs. Another point to observe is the
resistance classification, usually indicated in technical standards, which is often in compliance with local regulations. It is also important to highlight the integration with the design of the projects. The flooring needs to harmonize with other decorative elements so that the space is pleasant and stylish. Next, we have selected 10 flooring options for wet areas that combine functionality and safety for different projects. Check it out:
Daniel Szego e Fredy Terzian - Banheiro da Família. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2023. (Marco Antonio/CASACOR)
1- Ceramic
The
ceramic stands out as a classic option for wet areas due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness. Easy to maintain, this choice enables a flawless finish, suitable for both residential and commercial areas. Additionally, ceramics offer a wide variety of textures, colors, and formats, allowing personalization of the project according to the resident's preferences. Its surface is durable and, when installed correctly, presents a high level of resistance to moisture. A quality ceramic with additional non-slip treatment can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable environment.
Letícia Nannetti - EnCantos. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2024. (Bia Nauiack/CASACOR)
2- Porcelain
The
porcelain is synonymous with sophistication and practicality. Highly resistant to chemicals and abrasives, this material is ideal for areas that require frequent cleaning. Its dense surface does not absorb water easily, making it an excellent option for bathrooms and kitchens. However, it is vital to select a porcelain with a non-slip finish to avoid accidents. Available in various colors and patterns, including designs that mimic wood and natural stones, porcelain complements a diverse range of architectural styles.
3- Rubber
With high adherence and resistance, rubber flooring is an excellent option for areas where safety is a priority, such as playgrounds, gyms, and pool areas. It absorbs impacts, reduces the risk of slipping, and is comfortable to walk on. Its maintenance is simple, requiring just washing with water and neutral detergent. However, rubber may wear over time and needs periodic replacement in high-traffic areas.
4- Treated Wood Deck
The
wood deck brings an elegant and cozy look to outdoor and leisure areas. However, to make it safe in wet areas, the wood needs to be treated against moisture and fungi, in addition to receiving anti-slip finishes. Maintenance includes periodic reapplication of varnishes or protective oils, as well as regular cleaning with water and neutral soap. When well cared for, the wooden deck can last many years without compromising safety.
5- Vinyl
The
vinyl flooring has been emerging in the market for its versatile properties. Made of PVC, it is water-resistant, flexible, and provides a more comfortable walking experience compared to ceramic or stone floors. Additionally, vinyl has layers that allow for easy cleaning and maintenance. Available in different patterns, it closely imitates wood and stones, allowing bold aesthetic solutions. It is resistant but with a relatively simple installation, making it ideal for quick renovations.
6- Hydraulic Tile
The
hydraulic tile is a perfect alternative for bringing color and personality to projects. Hand-made, this type of flooring is known for its vibrant prints and variety of designs. In wet areas, it requires appropriate waterproofing treatment to ensure durability. The artisanal configuration of each piece results in a unique and distinct composition that adds a touch of authenticity and history to the spaces.
7- Natural Stones
Besides
marble and granite, other natural stones, such as slate and limestone, are also often used in wet areas. Slate, for example, has a natural non-slip texture, which makes it ideal for locations such as pool edges or bathrooms. However, these stones require regular maintenance, including the application of sealants to prevent stains. Their rustic appearance offers a unique charm, bringing a bit of nature into homes.
(Clive Nichols/Divulgação)
8- Epoxy
Epoxy flooring, or liquid porcelain, stands out in wet areas for its excellent resistance and easy maintenance. Applied in liquid form, it creates a uniform surface without seams, which facilitates cleaning and hygiene. Its application method also allows for unique creativity regarding colors and patterns. In wet areas, it is essential to choose anti-slip versions, which have additives or special textures to increase adherence and prevent falls. This coating is widely used in industrial kitchens, hospitals, garages, and even bathrooms due to its high chemical and mechanical resistance.
(Porcelanato Líquido/Divulgação)
9- Concrete
The
concrete results in a modern and minimalist look highly appreciated in contemporary projects. In wet areas, polished or pigmented concrete prevents excessive water absorption, provided that appropriate treatment is applied. It is known for being durable and easy to mold into complex and customized designs. Additionally, new technologies allow for varied pigmentation and textures, making concrete an excellent choice for creative and innovative spaces.
(Daniela Mac Adden/Archdaily/Divulgação)
10- Granilite
Granilite is a coating made of cement, sand, and pieces of natural stones, such as marble and granite, resulting in a resistant and versatile surface. It can be polished for a smoother finish or receive a non-slip treatment, making it ideal for wet areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. In addition to its high durability, granilite has low water absorption and is easy to clean, requiring only neutral detergent and a damp cloth to maintain its appearance
(Gabriela Daltro/Divulgação)
CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator agent developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho. [abril-veja-tambem]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