Advantages and Disadvantages – Choosing the Right Shower Surround for Your Bathroom

Choosing the right shower surround can make a big difference in the look and functionality of your bathroom. With so many different materials and styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you.

That’s why Big Easy Bathrooms has created this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision about your shower surround. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different shower surround materials, including tile, acrylic, and fiberglass. We will also explore different styles and designs, and provide tips for choosing the best option for your bathroom renovation project.

Tile Shower Surrounds: Pros and Cons

Tile shower surrounds are a popular choice for homeowners due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. However, they also have their drawbacks.

Here are some of the pros and cons of tile shower surrounds:

Pros:

• Durability: Tile shower surrounds are durable and can withstand daily wear and tear.
• Design Flexibility: Tiles come in a variety of colors, patterns, and shapes, allowing for customization and design flexibility.
• Waterproof: Properly installed tile shower surrounds are waterproof, preventing water damage and mold growth.
• Resale Value: Tile shower surrounds are a desirable feature for homebuyers and can increase the resale value of a home.

Cons:

• Grout Maintenance: Grout lines between tiles can be difficult to maintain and may require regular cleaning and resealing to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Installation Time: Tile shower surrounds can take longer to install than other materials, which can increase installation costs and inconvenience.
• Cost: Tile shower surrounds can be expensive, depending on the type of tile and complexity of the design.
• Cold to the Touch: Tile can feel cold to the touch, which may be uncomfortable for some people during colder months.

Acrylic Shower Surrounds vs. Fiberglass Shower Surrounds

Acrylic and fiberglass shower surrounds are two popular options for homeowners looking for a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution for their bathroom renovation project.

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of acrylic and fiberglass shower surrounds:

Acrylic Shower Surrounds:

Pros:

• Durable: Acrylic shower surrounds are made of a high-strength material that is resistant to cracking and chipping.
• Low Maintenance: Acrylic is a non-porous material that is easy to clean and resists stains and mildew growth.
• Versatile: Acrylic shower surrounds come in a variety of colors and designs, and can mimic the look of more expensive materials like tile or stone.
• Lightweight: Acrylic shower surrounds are lightweight and easy to install.

Cons:

• Scratches: Acrylic shower surrounds can scratch easily, which can be unsightly and difficult to repair.
• Yellowing: Over time, acrylic shower surrounds can become yellowed and discolored, particularly with exposure to sunlight.
• Limited Temperature Range: Acrylic shower surrounds may warp or crack if exposed to high temperatures.

Fiberglass Shower Surrounds:

Pros:

• Affordable: Fiberglass shower surrounds are generally more affordable than other materials, making them a cost-effective option for homeowners on a budget.
• Lightweight: Like acrylic shower surrounds, fiberglass shower surrounds are lightweight and easy to install.
• Durable: Fiberglass is a strong material that is resistant to cracking and chipping.
• Low Maintenance: Fiberglass is a non-porous material that is easy to clean and resists stains and mildew growth.

Cons:

• Limited Design Options: Fiberglass shower surrounds come in limited colors and designs.
• Susceptible to Scratches: Fiberglass shower surrounds can scratch easily, which can be unsightly and difficult to repair.
• Can Yellow Over Time: Like acrylic, fiberglass shower surrounds can become yellowed and discolored over time with exposure to sunlight.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Stone Shower Surrounds

Stone shower surrounds are a luxurious and high-end option for homeowners looking to create a spa-like atmosphere in their bathroom. However, they also come with a few drawbacks.

Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of stone shower surrounds:

Benefits:

• Durability: Stone shower surrounds are extremely durable and resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Stone shower surrounds add a natural, organic feel to the bathroom, and can increase the overall value of the home.
• Customizable: Stone shower surrounds come in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures, allowing for customization and design flexibility.
• Resistant to Water Damage: Properly sealed stone shower surrounds are resistant to water damage, mold, and mildew growth.

Drawbacks:

• Cost: Stone shower surrounds are among the most expensive options for bathroom renovations, making them less accessible to homeowners on a tight budget.
• Maintenance: Stone shower surrounds require regular maintenance, including sealing and cleaning to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Heavy: Stone shower surrounds are heavy and may require extra support during installation.
• Cold to the Touch: Stone can feel cold to the touch, which may be uncomfortable for some people during colder months.

Metal Shower Surrounds: Advantages and Disadvantages

Metal shower surrounds are a unique and modern option for bathroom renovations.

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of metal shower surrounds:

Advantages:

• Sleek Aesthetic: Metal shower surrounds have a sleek and modern look, making them a popular choice for contemporary bathroom designs.
• Durability: Metal shower surrounds are extremely durable and resistant to scratches, chips, and stains.
• Easy to Clean: The smooth surface of metal shower surrounds makes them easy to clean and maintain.
• Versatility: Metal shower surrounds come in a variety of metals, including stainless steel, brass, and copper, allowing for customization to match any bathroom decor.

Disadvantages:

• Cost: Metal shower surrounds are typically more expensive than traditional tile or fiberglass options, making them less accessible to homeowners on a tight budget.
• Heavy: Metal shower surrounds are heavy and may require additional support during installation.
• Cold to the Touch: Metal can feel cold to the touch, which may be uncomfortable for some people during colder months.
• Susceptible to Scratches and Dents: While metal shower surrounds are durable, they can be susceptible to scratches and dents, particularly if they come in contact with hard or sharp objects.

Choosing the Right Shower Surround for Your Budget and Style Preferences

When it comes to choosing a shower surround for your bathroom, there are many options to consider.

Here are some tips for choosing the right shower surround for your budget and style preferences:

• Determine your budget: The cost of shower surrounds can vary greatly depending on the material and design. Determine your budget before you start shopping to narrow down your options.
• Consider your style preferences: Do you prefer a sleek and modern look, or do you prefer a more traditional aesthetic? Consider the overall style of your bathroom and choose a shower surround that complements it.
• Evaluate maintenance and durability: Consider the maintenance and durability of different materials. For example, tile requires regular maintenance and can be prone to cracks, while acrylic and fiberglass are low maintenance and durable.
• Look for customization options: Some shower surrounds come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, allowing for customization to match any bathroom decor.
• Consider installation requirements: Some shower surrounds require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by a homeowner. Be sure to consider the installation requirements before making a purchase.
• Read reviews and compare options: Read reviews from other homeowners and compare different options before making a final decision. This can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you choose a shower surround that meets your needs and preferences.

If you are planning a bathroom renovation project and need help choosing the right shower surround for your budget and style preferences, contact Big Easy Bathrooms. Our experienced team of designers can help find the perfect shower surround to match any bathroom decor. Contact us today to get started!