What flooring is cheaper than bathroom tiles?

[ivanptr]

Hi,

We’re planning to hire builders to convert our garage into a bathroom.

Previously, when we renovated an existing bathroom, the process was as follows:

1. Remove old tiles

2. Waterproof

3. Plumbing

4. Install new tiles

5. Grouting and silicone

Our question is: Are there any alternative flooring options that are simpler and more cost-effective?

For example, could we request the builder to create a concrete/cement floor instead of installing new tiles?

 

Possible sequence:

1. Waterproof the existing concrete garage floor

2. Plumbing and additional waterproofing as needed

3. Pour new concrete/cement

What specific details should we be aware of if we go this route?

It seems like installing tiles involves a lot of extra work and incurs significant material and labor costs.

[JacobZ]

Hi @ivanptr,

Thank you for your question.

Can you upload some photos of the space? This would help our members better understand the space and what you are trying to achieve.

If there is already concrete in your garage, there may be no need for anything additional as long as it can be waterproofed to the required standard. They may be able to polish the existing concrete, which would save on material costs.

Polished concrete is often a great option in bathrooms, but I couldn't say whether it would be cheaper than tiles, as there is still significant labour involved. The only way to know which option would be cheaper is to speak with a builder and have some quotes done up.

Allow me to tag @Nailbag and @Dave-1 to see if they have any advice.

Once you've uploaded some photos of the space, I will be happy to assist further.

Jacob

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @ivanptr 

I am also thinking of the fall of the existing floor, Garage floors may have a slope towards the entrence (mine does but its older) that plus having a floor fall towards the waste holes is why bathrooms have the mud and tiles to help create that tint much needed angle for the water to flow away naturally.

Thinking of your garage floor and some pics could help with ideas. Does it slope at all? And where are your existing waste serices located compared to where you want the new bathroom. The last question is "Does your local council allow" garages to be converted into bathrooms? I know my council frowns on garages being repurpurused into rooms as it means the car spot thatw a sthere gets bumped and so on until its on the street. Its not illegal but not keen. It may be an idea to check.

Dave