Are you considering a pebble shower floor for your bathroom remodel, but unsure if it’s the right choice? Pebble flooring offers an intriguing blend of affordability, aesthetics, and durability.
This blog post will identify the pros and cons of pebble shower floors to make your decision-making process simpler. Let’s uncover everything you need to know about this unique home trend!
Key Takeaways
- Pebble shower floors are affordable, ranging from $4 to $8 per square foot, making them a budget-friendly option for bathroom remodeling.
- These floors are easy to install and do not require specialized skills. DIY installation is possible with basic knowledge of the process.
- Pebble floors offer a non-slip surface, providing added safety in the bathroom, especially for children and elderly family members.
- They provide a comfortable feel underfoot due to the uneven surface texture, giving you a little foot massage while you shower.
- There is a wide variety of designs and colors available, allowing homeowners to personalize their shower space according to their style preferences.
- Pebble floors have natural stone beauty that adds an aesthetically appealing touch to any bathroom space.
- Installation and maintenance may require specialized skills or professional help for proper installation and long-term durability.
- They may not last as long as other flooring options and can wear down or become loose over time requiring repairs or replacement more frequently than materials like ceramic or porcelain tiles
- While pebble shower floors offer a non-slip surface, they are not necessarily easy to clean due to the grout required to hold the pebbles in place. Water retention issues also need attention when using river rock pebbles.
Grasping Pebble Shower Floor Basics
These stone floors also last long without getting scratched due to their rock makeup. The uneven surface of the stones stops people from slipping too much on wet bathroom tiles. It’s like walking on a riverbed inside your house! Plus, these pebbles are quite comfy under your feet, giving you a mini foot massage with each step.
But that’s not all! The look of natural stone adds beauty to any space. Your bathroom will look even better with one of these type of shower floors installed.
Pros of Pebble Shower Floors
Pebble floors offer several benefits such as affordability, easy installation, resistance to wear and scratches, a non-slip surface, comfortable feel underfoot, a wide variety of designs and colors, and an aesthetically appealing appearance.
Affordable
They won’t hurt your wallet. They cost from $4 to $8 per square foot. This makes them a good choice for those on a tight budget. You get the chance to upgrade your bathroom without spending too much money.
For more insights on the costs associated with tiling a shower, check out our comprehensive guide here.
It is indeed a budget-friendly tiling option!
Easy to install
Putting them in is simple and fast. The process is easy to follow. You don’t need to be an expert or have special skills. Even if you like to do things yourself, you can install it without any help.
It doesn’t take long to put it in either. Plus, getting ready for the job isn’t hard work. This makes these floors a great choice for your bathroom.
Resistant to wear and scratches
The durability of pebble-studded shower surfaces is noteworthy. They do not show wear or get scratches easily. This is due to their rock make-up. You can use them for a long time without seeing dings or scrapes.
They keep looking good year after year!
Provides a non-slip surface
Their textured finish provides a secure footing, reducing the risk of slips in wet conditions.
Whether you have children or elderly family members, having a non-slip surface can give you peace of mind knowing that everyone is less likely to get hurt while using the bathroom.
Offers a comfortable feel underfoot
The tactile experience of treading on these uneven surfaces can be quite pleasant. It’s like getting a foot massage while you shower! The small stones and pebbles create a textured surface that feels great under your feet.
Plus, it adds an extra element of relaxation to your shower routine. So not only do pebble floors look stylish and provide a non-slip surface, but they also offer a comfortable and enjoyable experience for your feet.
Wide variety of designs and colors
A diverse palette of hues and patterns is available with these floors, catering to various design preferences. Homeowners have the option to customize their shower floors with various patterns, shades, and textures.
Whether you prefer a natural look with earthy tones or a more vibrant and colorful design, there is something for everyone. The extensive selection allows homeowners to create a unique and personalized shower space that matches their style preferences.
With so many options available, it’s easy to find the perfect design that complements the overall aesthetic of your bathroom.
Aesthetically appealing
Beyond their practicality, these floors add an element of visual warmth to any bathroom. They offer a unique and natural look, resembling authentic stones found in rivers. With a wide variety of colors available, homeowners can choose pebbles that match their bathroom fixtures and create a cohesive design.
Whether you prefer a sleek modern style or a more traditional look, the rustic charm of this type of floor adds an adventurous touch to any bathroom space.
Cons of Pebble Shower Floors
However, installing a pebble tile shower floor can bring a natural aesthetic to your bathroom, but it’s important to weigh the high maintenance that comes with it.
These include the need for specialized skills during installation and maintenance, a shorter lifespan compared to other materials, high maintenance requirements, potential slipperiness if not properly textured, discomfort for some individuals’ feet, water retention, especially with river rock pebbles, and unsuitability for hard water areas.
Installation and maintenance may require specialized skills
Specialized knowledge is often necessary for the proper installation and upkeep of these unique shower floors. This means that it might not be something easily done as a DIY project for everyone. It’s important to have the knowledge and expertise in working with these types of materials to ensure proper installation and long-term durability.
Additionally, regular maintenance such as resealing and retouching the grout is necessary to keep the pebble floor looking its best. So, if you’re considering installing a pebble shower floor, it’s important to either have the necessary skills or hire professionals who do.
May not last as long as other materials
Despite their appeal, the longevity of these natural-looking floors may fall short when compared to alternative materials. Over time, the pebbles can wear down or become loose, requiring repairs or replacement.
This means that they may need to be replaced more frequently compared to materials like ceramic or porcelain tiles. It’s important to keep in mind that regular maintenance and proper care can help extend the lifespan of a pebble shower floor.
However, if you’re looking for a long-lasting option, you might want to consider other materials that are known for their durability.
Requires a significant amount of grout
A notable downside is their tendency to require more grout, which can complicate cleaning. This can be seen as a disadvantage because it means more maintenance and cleaning since grout tends to collect dirt and may need frequent sealing.
Additionally, the large quantity of grout can make it challenging to achieve a seamless or smooth appearance on the shower floor. However, with proper installation and regular maintenance, this issue can be managed effectively.
High maintenance
The care for these floors can be intensive, demanding regular attention. They require specialized skills for installation and regular upkeep. This includes resealing and regrouting to prevent water damage and mold growth.
Additionally, pebble floors may retain water, especially with river rock pebbles, which can lead to more maintenance issues. It is important to consider the maintenance requirements before choosing a pebble shower floor for your bathroom.
It can be slippery if not properly textured
Without correct texturing, these floors might lead to a slippery surface. This is why it’s important to choose a pebble floor with the right texture to ensure a safe and slip-resistant surface.
When the texture of the pebbles is too smooth, there is an increased risk of slipping, especially when the floor gets wet. To avoid this issue, it’s recommended to look for pebble floors that have a slightly rougher texture or choose ones with added traction features like grooves or raised edges.
By selecting the right textured pebble floor, you can minimize the risk of slips and falls in your shower area.
May not be comfortable for all feet
The distinctive texture might not suit everyone, as it can be uncomfortable for sensitive feet. The individual stones and pebbles can create an uneven stepping surface, which might feel uncomfortable or even painful to walk on, especially for those with sensitive feet.
Additionally, the irregular shape and varying sizes of the pebbles can make it difficult to find a stable footing in the shower. It’s important to consider personal comfort when choosing a flooring option for your shower, as some people may prefer a smoother and more even surface for their feet.
Retention of water, especially with river rock pebbles
The porosity of the type of pebble used, particularly river rock pebbles, can lead to water retention, posing a potential issue for maintenance. This means that water can get trapped between the rocks and take longer to dry, which increases the risk of mold growth.
The uneven surface of the pebbles makes it difficult to remove moisture effectively, leading to potential maintenance issues. It’s important to be aware of this drawback when considering a pebble shower floor, especially if you live in a humid environment or struggle with excessive moisture in your bathroom.
o further protect your bathroom from water splashes and retain the beauty of your pebble shower floor, consider creating your own shower splash guard. Our step-by-step guide on creating a shower splash guard offers a practical solution.
Not suited for hard water areas
In areas with hard water, these floors may suffer from unsightly mineral deposits. This film can make the pebbles look dull and unattractive, affecting the overall aesthetic of your shower floor.
Additionally, hard water can leave mineral deposits on the pebbles, making them harder to clean and maintain. It’s important to consider the water quality in your area before choosing a pebble shower floor to ensure that it stays looking its best for longer.
How to Maintain a Pebble Shower Floor
Regular maintenance is key to preserving the functional and aesthetic qualities of these floors. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the buildup of mold and mildew. To clean the pebbles, use a mixture of white vinegar and water, scrubbing gently with a nylon bristle brush.
Discover more tips on maintaining the cleanliness of your shower tiles with minimal scrubbing by reading our article on effortless shower tile cleaning.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the surface. Additionally, it’s important to reseal the grout every six months to protect against water damage. Retouching any worn-out or cracked grout will also help maintain the integrity of the floor.
By following these simple maintenance steps, you can keep your pebble shower floor looking fresh and beautiful for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pebble shower floors have their advantages and disadvantages. They are affordable, easy to install, and resistant to slipping. However, they may require specialized skills for installation and maintenance, and they may not last as long as other materials.
It’s important to consider these pros and cons before choosing a pebble shower floor for your bathroom.
FAQs
1. What are the pros of pebble floors?
Pebble floors like Bali Pebble tiles or Orion are resistant to slipping and comfortable to step on. They offer a unique, stylish look that can add value to your home.
2. Are there cons to pebble floors?
Yes, some problems with river rock showers include being slippery if poorly textured and uncomfortable on bare feet. They’re also not suited for hard water areas as they may leave mineral deposits.
3. How hard is it to install pebble tiles in my bathroom?
The installation process of stone flooring like standard, sliced, or standing Pebble Tile Floors needs grout usage and thin-set but offers ease of installation which makes them a common choice among other floor materials.
4. Are there any specific maintenance for my pebble floor?
For maintenance, you need a regular cleaning routine using nylon-bristle scrub brush and vinegar cleaning solutions otherwise they might wear out quickly or be susceptible to moulds.
5. Do I have to use special footwear on a pebble floor?
It’s suggested! Rubber footwear such as flip-flops or crocs can help protect against discomfort when stepping on stones and smooth river rocks in the bathroom.
6. Could other fixtures get damaged because of my pebble tile flooring?
If unsealed rocks retain water from the Teak Shower Floors, it could extend disaster beneath causing an uneven surface resulting into bathroom falls hence precautions must be taken during waterproofing.
