Probably 30% of the homes I inspect have at least one bathroom that has carpet.
Some of the advantages of a Carpeted bathroom are as follows.
- Carpet provides a non slip surface when exiting the shower or tub
- Carpet is warmer to your feet in the winter
- Carpet is less expensive and quicker to install than Ceramic Tile
- Carpet has a warmer look to the bathroom.
Some of the disadvantages of Carpet in bathrooms
- Carpet and padding can act as a sponge and hold water
- Carpet can be more difficult to clean when soiled
- Carpet can hold urine and be undetected
- carpet can hold moisture from exiting the shower or tub
- Wet carpet can be a hiding place for mold
When left to grow mold can create structural damage, because mold can deteriorate a wood sub-floor or drywall and cause structural damage which can lead to costly repairs. Carpet has a tendency to hold or foster bacteria which is one reason it is against code to carpet a commercial bathroom.
Precautions you should take if you have carpet in your bathrooms
- Check often for moisture
- Make sure you have proper ventilation
- Make sure toilet is not leaking
- Carpet in bathrooms should be cleaned on a regular basis
The photo is of a bathroom that was tiled but moisture invaded the ceramic tile and went unchecked mold growth occurred and lead to costly repairs.
www.tomcampinspectionservices.com
