How to Choose the Right Material for your Washroom: 5 Expert Tips
Ensure your washroom balances functionality and style by keeping these five factors in mind when choosing materials.
To help you choose the right materials for your washroom project, here are five essential considerations to keep in mind.
Traffic
Consider the level of traffic your washroom area will receive. Areas with high traffic will require robust materials to withstand heavy use such as Solid Grade Laminate (SGL).
Traffic
Material Choice
Low
Melamine Faced Chipboard (MFC)
Medium
High Pressure Laminate (HPL)
High
Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) or Compact Density Fibreboard (CDF)
Environment
The environment of your washroom is also a critical factor to consider when selecting your materials. Consider the level of traffic your washroom area will receive. Areas with high traffic will require robust materials to withstand heavy use such as Solid Grade Laminate (SGL).
Environment
Material Choice
Dry
MFC, HPL
Wipe Clean Areas (no water left on panels)
HPL, CDF
Wet/Humid (or requires thorough cleaning routine)
SGL, CDF
Budget
If washroom regulations or environmental conditions do not dictate a specific material, then budget can play a key role in your decision. For low-traffic areas with dry conditions, MFC offers a cost-effective option that’s ideal for budget-conscious projects.
If durability and longevity are priorities, investing in higher quality materials like SGL, may involve greater upfront costs but will often deliver long-term savings through reduced maintenance and replacement needs.
Regulations
Certain sectors have specific washroom regulations that dictate which materials can and cannot be used. For example, regulations for school toilets recommend that “toilet cubicle systems shall be constructed from waterproof solid laminate” (Technical Annex 2A: Sanitaryware – 3.2.16). Similarly, the Department of Health requires that panels in healthcare facilities should be “easy to clean, durable and impervious” (HBN 00-10 Part C: Sanitary Assemblies -2.89).
Aesthetic
The aesthetic appeal of your washroom plays a key role in shaping how it is perceived by users. When selecting materials, it’s important to consider how they align with your overall design scheme. Options such as HPL or 44mm Hardwood Lipped are ideal for achieving a high-end, luxury washroom finish, whereas SGL is extremely durable and perfect for functional spaces.
At Aaztec we provide a wide selection of materials to suit every sector, environment and budget. If you would like further information or expert guidance, please contact our team who are on hand to recommend the most suitable materials for your next washroom project.
