Bathroom Vinyl Flooring

Had discussions with local fitters but unable to get a definitive answer … Should vinyl flooring be fitted before or after bathroom toilet and shower install?

Asked by Nathan on 17th Feb 2025
Expert Trade Answers
"It’s a neater finish before but if the floor fitter s neat he can do after the utilities are done so you can continue with the work"
Answered on 17th Feb 2025 - Member since Jul 2023 - report
"Usually done at the end. But would probably want toilet removing to lay vinyl and re fitting once vinal layed."
Answered on 17th Feb 2025 - Member since Feb 2020 - report
"It does not make any difference, before or after. If fitted after, you save money as less metres to purchase."
Answered on 17th Feb 2025 - Member since Dec 2022 - report
"After the shower, but remove toilet to fit floor for a better finish."
Answered on 17th Feb 2025 - Member since Jan 2025 - report
"After bathroom, shower and toilet is installed to get the perfect shape fit in of the vinyl flooring right round it all"
Answered on 17th Feb 2025 - Member since Feb 2025 - report
"In my opinion before, you will get a better finish as long as the bathroom fitters are carful of the new flooring."
Answered on 17th Feb 2025 - Member since Oct 2024 - report
"Either, really . I wouldn't advise to have it fitter prior to a shower tray installation but it can ne laid under the wc and sink no issues"
Answered on 19th Feb 2025 - Member since Jun 2021 - report
"Can be either and as I always do is make sure any wet areas are siliconed finished"
Answered on 20th Feb 2025 - Member since Oct 2023 - report
"Is normally good practice to fit before with white goods placed on top, rather than cuts etc"
Answered on 20th Feb 2025 - Member since Aug 2021 - report
"Vinyl flooring should generally be installed before fitting the toilet and shower, but there are pros and cons to each approach:

Installing Vinyl Before Fitting Fixtures (Recommended)
✅ Seamless Look – The flooring extends under the toilet and shower base, creating a cleaner, more polished finish.
✅ Better Waterproofing – Reduces the risk of water seeping under the flooring, which can lead to damage over time.
✅ Easier Future Replacements – If you ever need to replace the toilet, you won’t have to worry about cutting around the base or matching the new fixture’s footprint.

Installing Vinyl After Fitting Fixtures
✅ Easier for DIY Installation – No need to cut around the base of the toilet and shower, reducing waste and mistakes.
✅ Avoids Potential Damage – Heavy fixtures might stretch or damage the vinyl if not installed correctly.
❌ Less Waterproofing – If the edges aren’t sealed properly, water can get underneath and cause lifting or mold.
❌ Difficult Replacement – If you need to replace the toilet in the future, you may have to patch or redo the flooring to match.

Final Recommendation
For a professional and long-lasting result, install vinyl flooring before the toilet and shower, ensuring proper sealing around edges to prevent water ingress. However, if you're working with click-lock vinyl planks, installing after may be preferable, as heavy fixtures can damage floating floors."
Answered on 13th Mar 2025 - Member since Feb 2025 - report
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