I want to know if this is a good idea or not?

Pic courtesy of Rona by Design



Its ceramic tile along with bamboo flooring. I would like to do something like this, but probably not with bamboo, maybe something different. But the idea of mixing ceramic tile and hardwood like shown in the picture in a bathroom would that be a good idea/bad idea?? My only concern is water and the wood as well as how it would be installed.[/img]

I've seen it done. In fact, I refinished some planks weaved into a tile floor in a kitchen. The maintenance on the wood will be more than the tile. It would probably require annual maintenance re-coats. Choose a very stable wood species, like mesquite. Or at least use a quarter sawn wood floor. If done properly, it can be done.

What about using engineered? more stable if I remember correctly?

and I should still nail/staple them to the subfloor with 15lb asphalt under it or could I just glue them down directly to the floor?

There are a number of products that could be direct glued to your substrate. I think this would be a good way to go.

I see that bamboo has good stability, but i read mixed reviews on its durability, what is your opinion on bamboo?

My opinion is folks who are installing bamboo now are going to regret their decision it 3, 4 or 5 years from now. They think its "hard" because of some Janka ratings they have seen, but in reality it is considerably softer than oak.... almost soft as pine.

hardness is not the concern for me, its the stability, i don't want it moving too much.
I'll probably end up getting engineered flooring.

I think engineered would be better too. One reason it should be an easier task to get the height's to match up with tile. I have not researched this yet, but i believe one could install Schluter's DITRA membrane and lay the tile and engineered wood over it.

Hey Mrryan. What kind of filler or grout are you planning on using between the wood and tile? I really like these mixed floors. Thanks.

Ya, we have not been informed as to exactly what the substrate is??

Over crawlspace, upstairs over plywood, or over concrete? I saw a reference to 15-lb felt, and only assume it is over wood.

If you use CBU or an isolation membrane, I would use urethane glue on the wood. Gluing a single board down, is going to be a better assembly.