Can you install bathroom flooring without removing the toilet?
Updating a bathroom floor can breathe new life into the space, but it raises an important question: can you install flooring without removing the toilet? Some homeowners prefer to avoid the hassle of removing and reinstalling fixtures, while others aim for the best possible finish. Here, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of flooring installation around existing fixtures, why some professionals advise against it, and how Portsmouth bathroom fitters at Prowess Developments ensure your project is completed to industry standards.
How Bathroom Flooring Is Typically Installed
The Full Removal Process
In a standard bathroom renovation, flooring is typically installed after the toilet and other fixtures have been removed. This “clean slate” approach allows the fitters to lay flooring without obstructions, creating a seamless and watertight finish. By removing the toilet, the fitter can position the flooring underneath, leaving no gaps and ensuring the edges are properly sealed against moisture.
This method is especially beneficial when using materials like vinyl, tile, or laminate, which all require secure placement to prevent movement or warping over time. By starting from scratch, fitters can also check the subfloor for any water damage, mould, or uneven spots, making sure the foundation is solid before new flooring is installed.
Installing Around Fixtures
Some may wonder if removing the toilet is necessary or if it’s just added hassle. In some cases, particularly with specific types of flooring, it is possible to install around fixtures. This is more common with DIY projects or when using sheet vinyl, which can be cut to fit around the toilet base. However, this approach can lead to visible seams, leaving the flooring vulnerable to water ingress if it’s not perfectly sealed.
While it may seem like a time-saver, this method can create complications. Without full removal, it’s difficult to achieve a truly watertight seal, and flooring edges may shift over time, especially in a moisture-rich environment like a bathroom.
Pros and Cons of Installing Flooring Around Fixtures
Pros of Installing Around Fixtures
For some, installing flooring around the toilet might seem like an appealing shortcut. Avoiding the toilet removal and reinstallation process can save time and, potentially, a bit of money. If done carefully, it’s possible to achieve a decent look, especially if the flooring is cut and fitted precisely.
However, even with a meticulous approach, there’s a risk that it won’t look as clean or polished as a professional installation. The results can also vary depending on the flooring material. With carpet tiles or other materials not typically recommended for bathrooms, cutting around the toilet is more common, although it comes with trade-offs.
Cons of Installing Around Fixtures
There are several significant drawbacks to consider. For one, if the flooring isn’t extended beneath the toilet, it can leave small gaps where water can seep in. Bathrooms are naturally damp environments, so having gaps between the flooring and the fixtures is an invitation for moisture to cause problems, including mould and damage to the subfloor.
Additionally, cutting around a toilet requires exact precision. One wrong measurement or slip can result in visible gaps, compromising the overall appearance. And if the flooring needs to be redone or adjusted, the process becomes more challenging when working around fixed fixtures. Many bathroom fitters in Portsmouth advise against this method, as it can result in a less durable and less visually pleasing finish.
Why Starting from a Clean Slate is the Industry Standard
Achieving a Watertight Seal
The main reason professional fitters recommend full removal is to achieve a watertight seal. By installing the flooring beneath the toilet, the edges are better protected against moisture and wear. This is especially important for materials like tile, vinyl, or waterproof laminate, which can be affected by bathroom humidity and potential spills.
A full removal approach also prevents any movement or warping that might occur if the flooring was simply installed around the fixture. When moisture gets trapped between layers, it can lead to long-term problems, like mould and water damage. This approach ensures the floor has a solid, even foundation, creating a longer-lasting result.
Avoiding Uneven Edges
Laying flooring around the toilet base often leaves uneven edges that can create a trip hazard or, at the very least, a visual distraction. By contrast, placing flooring beneath fixtures allows for a perfectly even surface without those unsightly edges. Prowess Developments’ Portsmouth bathroom fitters take pride in creating seamless finishes, giving every bathroom a polished, professional appearance.
The industry standard for bathroom fitters is to install flooring beneath all fixtures to avoid these issues. Skipping this step might feel convenient in the short term, but it often results in a compromised look and function over time.
Why It’s Important to Hire Competent Bathroom Fitters
Avoiding Shortcuts and Ensuring Quality
While it’s tempting to take shortcuts, especially with smaller projects, hiring experienced bathroom fitters ensures quality and reliability. Professional fitters follow industry standards and avoid practices that could compromise the longevity of your flooring. Skilled bathroom fitters in Portsmouth, like those at Prowess Developments, bring years of experience to each project, ensuring that flooring installations are done with care and attention to detail.
Professional fitters also handle any surprises that might come up, from uneven subfloors to unexpected leaks. With their experience, they can address these issues during the process, saving you from future problems that DIYers might overlook.
A Professional Finish and Peace of Mind
Working with professionals isn’t just about avoiding hassle; it’s also about achieving a high-quality finish that you can rely on. Professionals have access to better tools, materials, and techniques, creating a durable floor that not only looks great but stands up to everyday use. With experienced Portsmouth bathroom fitters on the job, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that everything has been installed correctly from the ground up.
In the end, a properly installed floor isn’t just about looks – it’s about creating a safe, functional space that will last. And when done right, you won’t have to worry about water seepage, uneven edges, or gaps. Instead, you’ll enjoy a smooth, watertight, and professionally polished floor.
Looking for someone to install your bathroom? Prowess Developments are ready to help! Just reach out to speak to your friendly Bathroom Fitters and schedule your FREE in-home estimate. We’ll handle everything to get you the bathroom you want. Call 07878380036 or fill in this form to get started!