It’s also available in a variety of colors and patterns. Porosity classifications range from least absorbent (impervious) to vitreous, semivitreous and nonvitreous (the most absorbent).

Laminate. Made of layers of materials literally bonded together for strength — resin, wood fiber and Kraft paper, laminate is durable and easy to clean, with the high resolution of the film resulting in a realistic appearance.

Hardwood. Hardwood lends a sense of warmth to your bathroom. Adding hardwood throughout the home can create a cohesive look.

Natural stone. Cut into tiles typically 12-inch squares or larger, stone is easy to care for and is durable. Stone can be honed (ground flat but not polished) or textured (sandblasting). If you opt for a stone floor, keep a pair of slippers on hand as it tends to be cold underfoot.

Vinyl. One of the most popular choices for bathrooms, vinyl comes in sheets or tiles. Sheet vinyl comes in rolls that are 6 or 12-feet wide, providing a seamless look. Tiles are easier to install and it simple to replace just one, if need be.

Vinyl is easy to clean and effectively resists stains and moisture.

And after the extensive floor work is finished, Chance says there are a number of things one can do — use bright paint colors and towels for example, — to make the bathroom more aesthetically pleasing.

“Wallpaper and borders are a thing of the past,” Chance said. “Pictures are always good in there, flowers … pewter knobs and handles, to give it more personality; Houseplants do well if there’s sunlight … mirrors add an extra dimension —some people will take a mirror and put it on the back of the door to open up the space … Lighting is (also) very important.”