A successful bathroom renovation in Cary NC starts with one decision: choosing the right materials. Bathrooms deal with moisture, heat, and daily wear. So it’s not just about what looks good — it’s about what holds up.
This guide walks you through smart choices for tile, countertops, and cabinetry. It focuses on what works in humid environments, what fits local styles in Cary, and what makes sense for everyday use.
Tile is one of the most important parts of any bathroom. It affects both how your space looks and how it handles water. In Cary’s climate, which leans warm and humid for much of the year, not every material is up to the task.
Here are your best options:
Porcelain is dense and non-porous. It resists water better than ceramic and holds up well over time. It's also easy to clean, which makes it a great choice for both floors and walls.
Porcelain can mimic natural stone or wood, so you can get the look you want without sacrificing durability. For many Cary homeowners, this is the top pick.
A close second to porcelain. It’s slightly more porous, but still works well for walls, backsplashes, and low-traffic floors. It’s usually more affordable, too.
If you’re renovating a guest bathroom or working with a tighter budget, ceramic is a solid option.
Marble, slate, and travertine can look great — but they need sealing and regular care. If you’re willing to stay on top of maintenance, stone can bring a unique feel to your bathroom.
In Cary, where moisture is a factor most of the year, you’ll want to avoid stone on floors unless it’s properly sealed and textured to prevent slipping.
Tip: Stick with textured finishes for flooring. They reduce the risk of slips in wet conditions.
Bathroom countertops don’t face the same abuse as kitchen ones, but they still need to handle water, heat, and daily use. Here's what makes sense in Cary homes:
Quartz is non-porous, stain-resistant, and low maintenance. It doesn’t need sealing, and it handles humidity well. That’s why it’s one of the most popular choices for bathroom renovations in Cary NC.
It also comes in a wide range of styles — from sleek modern looks to patterns that resemble marble or concrete.
Durable and heat-resistant, granite also works well in bathrooms. It does require sealing once a year, but otherwise holds up just fine in moisture-prone spaces.
Granite is a good fit for homeowners who want a more natural look and don’t mind a bit of upkeep.
Solid surface materials are seamless, which means no grout lines. They’re easy to clean and can be a good middle-ground option in terms of price and performance.
They’re not as heat- or scratch-resistant as stone, but in a bathroom setting, that’s rarely an issue.
While budget-friendly, laminate can swell or peel when exposed to moisture over time. It’s usually not the best choice in a bathroom, especially in humid places like Cary.
Cabinetry ties the whole space together — and it takes a beating from steam, splashes, and daily handling. Picking the right material will save you from future repairs or replacements.
Solid wood looks great and feels sturdy. In a well-ventilated bathroom, it can last for years — but only if it's sealed properly.
If you love the traditional, craftsman-style homes common in Cary, this could be a great fit. Just be ready to wipe down any pooled moisture to protect the wood.
Plywood holds up better than particle board in humid conditions. Cabinets made with plywood boxes and wood veneer fronts give you a mix of durability and design flexibility.
This is often the go-to choice for modern bathroom renovations in Cary.
MDF is smooth and affordable. It takes paint well, which is helpful if you're going for a clean, minimalist look. But it needs a high-quality finish to stay protected from moisture.
For powder rooms or guest baths, MDF works fine. For main bathrooms, it's a risk if not properly sealed.
Design preferences vary, but in Cary, many homeowners lean toward clean, modern lines mixed with natural textures. That might mean:
Of course, your own style matters most. But if you're thinking about resale down the road, it helps to align with what’s popular in your area.
A well-planned bathroom renovation in Cary NC starts with picking materials that balance style, performance, and cost.
Here’s a quick summary:
And remember — your bathroom should work for your lifestyle, not just look good in photos.
At ProTouch Contracting, we help homeowners in Cary and the Durham area choose the right materials and get the job done right. Whether it's a small update or a full renovation, we’re ready to help.
We’re a one-stop shop — and we’re happy to take on both large and small projects. If you want a contractor who listens, communicates clearly, and respects your budget, reach out today.
Contact us to schedule your free consultation.