Making some repairs in your bathroom? Or are you giving it a much-needed revamp? Either way, wood is a versatile and eco-friendly way to transform your bathroom renovation.
Admittedly, wood might not be your first choice, thanks to the conventional wisdom that doesn’t pair wood and wet places as a match made in heaven.
Luckily, it’s possible to do amazing things with wood when you know which type to use and how to treat it. Here is your chance to optimise your washroom and do away with tile for good:
Where to use wood
Wood can be used across many areas of your bathroom. You can apply it to your floors, use it as wall panels and amongst your bathroom furniture, such as countertops, washbasins and storage cabinets.
It’s a durable choice for your bathroom floors and ceilings since it adds a sense of natural warmth to your space. Opposed to the cold feel of tile, this can make your washroom more comfortable, and the organic, natural look can be incredibly relaxing.
Wooden wall panels add an attractive, rustic look to your bathroom and create depth and warmth. This is ideals for areas of the home where you’re going to be au natural.
Types of wood you can use
That being said, not all woods are suitable for use in your bathroom. You need hard, heavy woods that are resistant to moisture like treated timber to prevent future problems down the line. Some of the best woods to use in your bathroom include:
- Pine: This wood is not only affordable and easy to use but it can be painted and stained to resist moisture for a long time.
- Plywood: Although it is a softwood, this is ideal for bathroom cabinets. There are many different grades of this wood available – its highest is strong and water resistant.
- Mahogany: Attractive and a favourite amongst decorators, mahogany adds a classic look to any washroom and has great water resistance ability.
Protection and maintenance
Keeping your wood installation maintained and protected is key to keeping your bathroom looking its best. Whether you are maintaining hardwood floors or cabinets, you need a proper maintenance routine in place.
All woods should be treated with oils, varnishes and paints to prevent moisture from penetrating it and rot setting in. This can eat away at your installation and cause problems for its structural integrity.
You can identify wood rot as the timbers will usually darken in colour and develop cracks in the exterior. In the worst-case scenario, you will need to replace the affected wood, however it can be treated by applying fungicide and allowing it to dry out.
