Are Pressed Wood Floors Allowed in Laundry Rooms & Bathrooms?

Pressed Wood Floors

• Pressed wood is constructed by pressing and gluing layers of wood together. This type of engineered wood is selected for areas of the home where solid wood flooring is not suitable. Pressed wood flooring is an excellent choice for areas with moisture concerns, such as laundry rooms and bathrooms. Moisture can seep into regular wood floors, causing rot, but pressed wood is much more durable in moist areas.

Maintenance

• Some precautions may be taken to prolong the longevity of pressed wood flooring in laundry rooms and bathrooms. Using area rugs is a way to add a layer of protection to the wood flooring, and they are available in many colors and styles to fit any room's interior. Laundry rooms and bathrooms are both prone to spills and leaks, and in order to protect the integrity of the wood, leaks or water spills should be cleaned up immediately. Pressed wood flooring is stylish for laundry rooms and bathrooms, but definitely requires much more maintenance than other flooring options like vinyl. Use the proper floor cleaning materials, such as wood floor cleaner.

Solid Wood vs. Pressed Wood

• While engineered press wood flooring has its benefits, such as easier and faster installation, more dimensional stability and is more moisture resistant, solid wood has more longevity and durability. Pressed wood flooring has a thin veneer, varying between 1/32 inches and 3/8 inches, which can easily become damaged over time. Pressed wood flooring also has a “hollow” sound, while the sound of solid wood is more stable.

Other Flooring Options

• Prior to installing any pressed wood floors, homeowners should be informed of other laundry room and bathroom flooring options. Ceramic tiles, concrete and stone are all non-resilient and have no give when it comes to foot traffic and appliances, but they are the most durable options because they are easy to maintain and do well with spills. Cork, vinyl and linoleum floorings are resilient and more comfortable to walk on. The choice really just depends on budget and preference.