Tile Shower Walls vs. Tile Acrylic Shower Walls

Shower walls give the shower a finished look. When doing a bathroom renovation, one of the most critical steps is choosing the material for shower walls – acrylic or tile?

Most of the time, the decision comes down to the following factors – budget, available space, and personal preferences. Tiles give a stunning look and offer a wide range of choices. On the other hand, acrylic walls provide a seamless and clean look that is available in different textures, patterns, and colors to suit any space. Not to mention, both these walls are waterproof.

To help you decide which one to install around your shower, here the pros and cons of each material.

Installation

Homeowners can do the installation themselves; however, the process will require considerable time, work, and more than skill to install an acrylic wall surround. Hence, hiring a professional to do the job is still advisable.

Acrylic fits the standard shower openings and are affixed to the wall with adhesive. Moreover, they’re generally less expensive compared to tile walls. Also, if special tools, grout, mortar, and the installation price for the wall tiles into consideration,

Maintenance

It’s easy to wipe the tiles; however, it must be cleaned regularly with a grout cleaner to prevent stains and mildew growth. Furthermore, grout must be sealed to keep it from moisture and to avoid stains; once it chips or cracks, chip it out of the grout line and replace it with new grout to hinder moisture penetration. If the tile gets damaged, it can be repaired or replaced without replacing the entire wall.

Meanwhile, acrylic wall surrounds have a smooth surface; thus, making it simpler to clean – it only requires a quick wipe-down with a damp of cloth after each use. Plus, stubborn soap scum and dirt may be cleaned regularly while using a non-abrasive cleaner. However, once an acrylic wall surrounds experience damage, there’s no repair or replacement possible.

Design

Tile beats acrylic when it comes to the versatility of design – it offers more options in terms of color, pattern, and design. Furthermore, shower wall time is available in different materials, such as natural stone, ceramic, porcelain, and glass. Not to mention, each material varies in sizes; thus, giving a vast array of texture and design options.

Unfortunately, acrylic is limited to colors, such as white, blue, beige, or gray. While there are surrounds with tile patterns molded into them, they give much appeal like the real tile.

Lifespan

Even though wall tiles are prone to chips and cracks, it can last for the life of the shower with proper care. Acrylic surrounds are resistant to scratches and chips; moreover, if they’re correctly installed and maintained, it can last long, just like a tiled wall.

However, two- and three-piece acrylic shower surrounds have seam – these can separate over time. Hence, letting moisture behind the surrounds – leading to mildew growth or failure of adhesive.

If you are looking for a team to improve and remodel your bathtub to shower Anaheim CA, mainly your shower surrounds – our team is here to help you out! DURACARE Baths provides the most convenient and affordable service that allows homeowners to upgrade their bath enclosures – in as little as one to two days!

Our team uses durable, chemical-resistant, and impact-resistant acrylic products that are low-maintenance and easy to clean. Call us today on (800) 791-2538, and we will ensure to provide you the bathroom enhancements that will be suitable for your needs.