When it comes to creating a spa-like experience in your own bathroom, the right flooring makes all the difference. Two of the most popular choices are teak and cedar. Both offer unique advantages for shower floors, but which wood reigns supreme?
In this post, we'll dive deep into the teak vs. cedar shower floor debate, exploring their pros, cons, and everything in between to help you choose the perfect material for your bathroom.
Teak vs. Cedar Shower Floor Pros & Cons
Teak Shower Floor
Pros:
- incredibly durable
- naturally water-resistant
- luxurious appearance
- long-lasting
Cons:
- higher cost
Cedar Shower Floor
Pros:
- naturally rot-resistant
- pleasant aroma
- more affordable than teak
- beautiful warm tones
Cons:
- softer wood (can dent/scratch)
- requires more frequent sealing
Table of contents
- The Appeal of Wood Shower Floors
- Teak Shower Floors: The Luxurious Choice
- Cedar Shower Floors: The Aromatic Alternative
- Teak vs. Cedar: Which One Wins?
- Keeping Your Wood Shower Floor Beautiful
Additional Tables:
The Appeal of Wood Shower Floors
Why choose wood in a space notorious for its moisture? While tile and stone have long been the go-to for shower floors, wood offers a unique combination of benefits that other materials simply can't replicate.
The natural warmth of wood underfoot transforms a mundane shower into a luxurious experience, eliminating that initial shock of cold tile. Beyond comfort, wood provides a naturally slip-resistant surface, crucial for safety in a wet environment.
Furthermore, with proper treatment and sealing, wood shower floors can be incredibly durable and long-lasting.
While materials like tile can feel cold and impersonal, wood brings an organic, spa-like ambiance to any bathroom, elevating its overall aesthetic appeal.
So, whether you're aiming for a rustic farmhouse vibe or a sleek, modern look, wood can be the perfect complement to your design vision.
Teak Shower Floors: The Luxurious Choice
When it comes to luxury and performance in a shower floor, teak wood stands out as the gold standard.
This dense, exotic hardwood boasts a naturally high oil content, making it exceptionally water-resistant and durable. Teak's inherent resistance to rot, decay, and insects makes it ideally suited for the humid shower environment, ensuring a long-lasting and beautiful floor for years to come.
Beyond its practical benefits, teak possesses a rich, golden hue and a naturally elegant grain pattern that exudes sophistication. Stepping onto a teak shower floor is a truly luxurious experience, adding a touch of spa-like indulgence to your daily routine.
While teak is typically a higher investment than other wood options, its unparalleled durability and timeless beauty make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking the ultimate in bathroom luxury.
Regular oiling can further enhance teak's natural water resistance and maintain its lustrous appearance.
Related: Teak Shower Floor: Weighing the Pros and Cons Before You Buy
Cedar Shower Floors: The Aromatic Alternative
For those seeking a naturally beautiful and aromatic shower floor, cedar presents a compelling alternative to teak.
Known for its warm, reddish tones and inviting aroma, cedar brings a touch of nature into your bathroom. This softwood contains natural oils that are inherently resistant to rot, mildew, and insects, making it a durable and low-maintenance choice for shower floors.
One of the most appealing aspects of cedar is its distinct, refreshing scent. The aromatic oils released by the wood create a spa-like atmosphere, transforming your shower into a truly relaxing retreat.
Cedar is generally more budget-friendly than teak, making it an attractive option for homeowners seeking the beauty of a wood shower floor without the premium price tag.
While not as hard as teak, cedar is still quite durable, especially when properly sealed and maintained. However, it's worth noting that cedar's softer nature makes it slightly more susceptible to dents and scratches compared to teak.
Regular cleaning and occasional resealing will help preserve its natural beauty and extend its lifespan.
Teak vs. Cedar: Which One Wins?
Choosing between teak and cedar ultimately depends on your individual priorities and budget. Here's a head-to-head comparison to help you make the best decision:
| Feature | Teak | Cedar |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Durability | Extremely Durable | Durable, but softer than teak |
| Water Resistance | Excellent, naturally oily | Good, naturally rot-resistant |
| Maintenance | Occasional oiling | Regular cleaning & sealing |
| Appearance | Elegant, golden hues | Warm, reddish tones |
| Aroma | Minimal | Distinct, pleasant cedar scent |
| Longevity | Extremely long-lasting | Long-lasting with proper care |
| Slip Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
Teak Advantages: Superior durability, exceptional water resistance, luxurious appearance, and extreme longevity.
Teak Disadvantages: Higher cost.
Cedar Advantages: Lower cost, pleasant aroma, natural beauty, good water resistance.
Cedar Disadvantages: Softer than teak (more prone to dents/scratches), requires more frequent sealing.
Both teak and cedar offer compelling benefits for shower flooring.
Teak is the clear winner for those prioritizing ultimate durability and a luxurious feel, while cedar provides a more budget-friendly option with a warm, inviting aesthetic and pleasant aroma.
Consider your budget, desired aesthetic, and maintenance preferences to determine the best fit for your bathroom.
Keeping Your Wood Shower Floor Beautiful
Whether you choose teak or cedar, proper installation and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the longevity and beauty of your wood shower floor. While the specific needs of each wood type vary slightly, some general guidelines apply to both.
Installation
Professional installation is highly recommended for wood shower floors. Ensuring proper sloping for drainage and a waterproof membrane beneath the wood is critical to prevent water damage.
Additionally, using stainless steel screws and allowing for proper ventilation beneath the floor is essential for preventing rot and mildew.
Maintenance
Regular cleaning with a gentle pH-neutral cleaner is essential for removing soap scum and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the wood's finish.
Proper sealing is key to protecting your wood shower floor from moisture. Teak generally requires less frequent sealing than cedar due to its higher oil content. However, both wood types benefit from periodic resealing, especially in high-use showers.
Ensure adequate ventilation in your bathroom to minimize moisture buildup and help the floor dry quickly after each use. This can involve using a bathroom exhaust fan or simply opening a window after showering.