There are many decisions that go into designing a bathroom that fits your style, needs and budget. For a space that you’re going to look at and use every day, you don’t want to pick the wrong color or material. That’s why choosing a shower wall material is an important decision. Which one is best for you?
For Legacy Bath & Kitchen, it all depends on your preferences. We’re highly experienced with shower remodels, so we know all the pros and cons of popular shower materials. Keep reading to find out which shower material is the best choice for your bathroom renovation!
How To Rate Shower Materials
We all know that each person’s preferences are going to be different. That’s why we consider 3 important factors about each shower material:
- Cost
- Appearance
- Ease of cleaning
Budgets differ, customization desires can be specific and we all know what a pain cleaning the shower can be. Each of the following materials has pros and cons in these three areas. It’s up to you to decide what your priorities are and which option will fit your home best.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for inner shower walls. They are available in several sizes, designs and textures, making them pretty diverse in appearance. There is usually less range in color options, however. Ceramic tiles are affordable and can be installed without professional assistance. They’re also very water resistant. The main risk associated with this material is the probability of mold or mildew growth. You’ll have to keep a sharp eye out when cleansing the tiles with soapy water for any dark or suspicious growths.
Acrylic
Unlike other tiles, acrylic is actually packaged as a large continuous piece that fits over the entire shower wall. This material is smooth and non-porous, triple-seal technology to prevent soap scum, dirt or mold from sticking and collecting. Most acrylic pieces are relatively affordable, highly durable and easy to install by professionals. Due to their manufactured style, these pieces are unlikely to have a wide range of customizable styles or configurations.
Porcelain
Porcelain tiles are actually a kind of ceramic tile that is made from higher-quality clay fired at higher temperatures. This material is extremely tough and resistant to stains. It’s not very porous and can be easily cleaned with soap and water. It’s usually installed by a professional and can be more expensive than other tiles due to the higher quality material.
Natural Stone
Stone is the best choice for those looking for a striking and customizable shower wall. Appearance-wise, natural stone can be alluring and match your exact preferences. This material is naturally porous, absorbing soap scum and water that would otherwise cause problems. Stone is usually installed one stone at a time, increasing installation times and costs. Plus, natural stone is inherently a pricier material to invest in. Some common stone materials used in showers are:
- Marble
- Granite
- Onyx
- Slate
- Travertine
Need Bathroom Remodel Help?
The experts at Legacy Bath & Kitchen are on standby to design and install the shower of your dreams. If you need help making design decisions or have more questions about your shower remodel, don’t hesitate to contact our team!
