Expert: Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC) - 10/28/2007

Question
Hi, we're planning on improving a very small bathroom at a guest cabin in northern Wisconsin, enlarging it from about 55" x 60" to 5'x8'.  The cabin is unheated, with a minimal crawl space and we're wondering what options we have for the floors and walls.  Currently, there is old 1950's vinyl(?) tile on the floor and an abundance of knotty pine elsewhere.  We'd like to use some sort of ceramic/stone/porcelain tile.


Answer
Charlie,

Wood paneling is a common choice in unheated cabins because it can expand and contract with summer humidity and cool-season condensation without showing cracks.  This is also true of tile on a moisture-resistant substrate like green sheetrock or tile-backer.  Be sure to use (color-matched) caulk rather than grout at corners and wall/floor and wall/ceiling joints.  Sheetrock or plaster are less-forgiving, and unless detailed to allow for movement, may show cracking over time.

I also like the look of painted paneling in conjunction with pine.  Pre-painted or pre-stained paneling is available if you want to save some time; white beadboard makes a classy and durable ceiling.

Good luck,

Ted

P.S.  Sorry for the delay in my reply.  I was out of the office last week.