You can absolutely install flooring around a toilet. However, for a professional look and to prevent leaks and rotting subfloors, the best practice is to remove the toilet completely, install the flooring up to the drain flange, and reinstall the toilet on top of the new floor.
Yes, you should remove the toilet. While you technically can cut rigid or sheet flooring around a toilet, removing it ensures a seamless look, prevents trapped moisture, and avoids trapping the toilet. It also accommodates the new floor height.
Short answer: the vinyl surface itself is pee-proof — urine won't stain or seep through a sealed wear layer if you wipe it up the same day.
In 2026, bathroom flooring trends prioritize a blend of organic warmth and dramatic, personalized style, with popular choices including travertine, limestone, large-format porcelain tiles, and intricate patterned tiles. Top trends for the year include herringbone patterns, "tile drenching" (running the same tile on floor and wall), and high-contrast, artistic patterns that turn floors into a focal point.
To fill a large gap between a toilet and the floor, stop any wobbling by inserting plastic shims (like toilet wobble wedges) beneath the base. Cut off the excess shim, and apply a thick, continuous bead of 100% silicone or high-quality latex caulk around the front and sides.
Yes, caulking around the base of a toilet is required by most plumbing codes. The International Plumbing Code (IPC) and the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) stipulate that the joint where a fixture contacts the floor must be sealed to create a watertight, sanitary joint.
Using a saw or drill, cleanly cut all holes no more than 1 inch larger in diameter than the diameter of the pipe. Seal all gaps and holes to unconditioned space with caulk or canned spray foam. For larger gaps, rigid blocking material can be cut to fit over the gap and sealed in place with caulk or spray foam.
Chipped tiles, stained grout, and brightly colored porcelain tubs and toilets (think avocado green, mustard yellow, or bubblegum pink) instantly make a bathroom look neglected. No matter how clean the rest of the space is, damaged surfaces or retro fixtures give off a dated vibe.
Bathroom trends are shifting sharply toward warm, organic, and highly personalized spaces. The stark, all-white and cold gray aesthetics are out. In their place are soothing earth tones, textural natural materials, stealth-wealth luxury, and integrated, functional smart tech to create an inviting in-home spa.
The "Rule of 3" in flooring is a design principle that recommends using no more than three distinct flooring materials or color variations throughout your entire home. Limiting your design to three elements creates visual cohesion, prevents a chopped-up layout, and ensures smooth, intentional transitions from room to room.
Standing water can still seep through and damage the subfloor if no waterproofing layer is installed. However, they can be prone to dents and scratching. Also, they may fade when installed in areas constantly exposed to the sun. Vinyl planks also can't withstand extreme temperature changes very well.
Short answer: yes, mould can grow under vinyl flooring — but only when moisture gets trapped between the planks and the subfloor. Vinyl itself is non-porous, so the planks don't host mould.
Yes, you can safely use standard Swiffer wet pads or a Swiffer WetJet on Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) floors. Because LVP is water-resistant and durable, the light moisture from Swiffer pads falls well within safe damp-mopping limits, making it a great option for quick clean-ups.
You can absolutely install flooring around a toilet. However, for a professional look and to prevent leaks and rotting subfloors, the best practice is to remove the toilet completely, install the flooring up to the drain flange, and reinstall the toilet on top of the new floor.
What are the most popular vinyl plank flooring colors in 2026? Light oak, greige, and soft brown tones continue to be favorites. These colors feel fresh and versatile, working well with neutral palettes, natural light, and the relaxed, airy look many homeowners are going for right now.
On average, you can expect to pay a plumber between $185 and $400 for labor. If you include the cost of a mid-range toilet, the total typically lands between $350 and $800. Plumbers usually charge either a flat rate for this common task or an hourly rate, with the job taking about 1 to 3 hours.
Timeless bathroom colors rely on calm, neutral foundations that won't feel dated. The best enduring choices are crisp or warm whites, soft grays, nature-inspired muted greens, and classic black-and-white. These adaptable hues maximize light and provide a versatile canvas for evolving your decor.
A realistic bathroom remodel budget ranges from $15,000 to $35,000+. Costs depend on the scope and your location. In Southern California, for example, a mid-range 40-square-foot guest bath costs roughly $25,000 to $36,000. For a simple cosmetic refresh, you might spend $12,000 to $16,000, while a luxury primary suite can exceed $50,000.
Common Signs of An Outdated Bathroom
Cracked or chipped tiles can also be an eyesore. Leaky or Old Faucets: Dripping faucets not only waste water but also give off an impression of neglect. Upgrading to modern fixtures can instantly elevate the look and functionality of your bathroom.
Flat, One-Dimensional Lighting
Relying solely on ceiling spotlights is one of the quickest ways to make a bathroom feel cheap. It creates a flat, stark, clinical atmosphere that does little to enhance materials or finishes while also creating impractical shadows in uncomfortable directions.
Deep green, navy blue, charcoal, and warm neutrals like beige or taupe make a bathroom look expensive, especially when paired with brass or gold fixtures. Rich, moody colors create a luxurious spa-like feel, while high-contrast neutrals like creamy white or soft grey enhance sophistication and space.
The most flattering bathroom colors balance light reflection and warmth to counteract the often harsh, yellow cast of artificial vanity lighting. The top choices range from airy hues for smaller, windowless spaces to moody, saturated tones for larger retreats.
Myth 1: “Using push-fits devalues the trade.”
Some installers believe that using push-fit fittings removes the skill from plumbing, but that couldn't be further from the truth. While push-fits are quick and easy to install, the technology behind them is highly advanced.
No, you generally should not caulk over old caulk. Applying new caulk over old sealant usually results in poor adhesion, premature peeling, and an uneven finish. It can also lock in hidden mold and moisture, leading to water damage.
If you are working on indoor fixtures like sink drains or faucet bases, plumber's putty is often the better choice because it is easy to apply and remove. On the other hand, for areas exposed to constant water, pressure, or outdoor conditions, silicone provides a stronger, long-lasting seal.