Tiles have long been the standard for shower wall coverings. Typically made individually from ceramic, a tiled wall in your shower is completely waterproof, will last a long time, and is very versatile in terms of design.
Porous surfaces are also more prone to staining and attracting mold and mildew growth. Shower materials that are easier to clean are therefore those with smooth and nonporous surfaces such as glass, fiberglass, and acrylic.
In most cases, a fiberglass shower will need to be replaced after 10 or maybe 15 years at the most. If you use lots of harsh or abrasive cleaners and chemicals, the shower is likely to wear out and need replacing even sooner.
Acrylic shower walls are one the most durable and resistant materials, and for that reason you can expect them to last anything from 10 to 20 years from the day they were first installed. Due to its properties, acrylic showers don't tend to chip, crack or fade over time.
Acrylic. Along with being beautiful and fully customizable, acrylic shower systems are the easiest to clean. This innovative material is naturally resistant to fading, scratching, and staining, and acrylic showers are installed in one solid piece so no stubborn grout lines are present.
Even though many of us love a steaming hot shower, a shower with warm (or cool) water is better for your skin. Very hot water can strip natural, important oils from your skin when you're showering and may damage your skin faster.
Simply put, acrylic panels have the look and style of tiles but without the mold, moisture, and cracking problems. A completely non-porous and waterproof material, it can be used to cover a full wall or as a decorative wainscoting wall accent. Acrylic is one of the most cost-effective materials for your bathroom.
While an acrylic shower base has some advantages, such as being light in weight and relatively easy to install, it does have a few disadvantages. Most concerning is the issue of longevity – acrylic can chip or crack over time, potentially leading to water damage in the bathroom.
Bottom line is that acrylic is a stronger material than fiberglass. Acrylic tubs effectively resist wear and tear for years on end, while fiberglass is prone to scratching and cracking. Fiberglass also fades more quickly, especially if exposed to sunlight coming in through a window.
Acrylic and fiberglass can scratch easily. Avoid using commercial aerosol cleaners, harsh cleaners, and solvents. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth or sponge when cleaning. A textured sponge will scratch or damage surfaces.
Fiberglass can easily bend under weight because it is very flexible. Improper support and pressure from frequent use and harsh cleaning detergents can cause cracks after some time. Also, dropping heavy objects in the bathtub can cause dents and small divots.
They're attractive tubs that are easy to install and repair. However, they are also prone to damage if you aren't careful. Specifically, they can become cracked or chipped, which damages their appearances and can undermine their structural integrity.
Use an appropriate waterproof or moisture-resistant backing material behind grouted tile or stone or segmented plastic or fiberglass tub and shower surrounds. Appropriate materials include cement board which has a cementitious core and glass mats on both sides to strengthen the board.
How do professionals clean showers? Professionals use acid-based cleaning solutions like vinegar for hard water spots and soap scum. For deep-set soap scum, cleaners will use heavy-duty detergents and degreasers. Bleach cleaning solutions are best reserved for cleaning the mold and mildew from grout.
If you're already dealing with grout stains and shower mold, or if you're planning a bathroom remodel to prevent those problems, acrylic shower walls that look like tile are the ideal solution. Unlike traditional tile and grout, water can't penetrate acrylic shower walls, helping to fully waterproof your bathing space.
Acrylic is an extremely durable bath and shower material. With its strong acrylic surface and composite backing material, it's resistant to the rigors of everyday life — no cracks, no chips. Depending on use, acrylic may require less maintenance than other bath materials.
Since they are often in contact with water, you may very well find mold in showers from time to time. Though it does not grow directly on fiberglass, mold and mildew are both fungi that can grow on dirt, soap scum and grease on the surfaces.
Acrylic shower bases are long-lasting and stain- and scuff-resistant, all at a reasonable price, especially considering their lifespan. Fiberglass bases may be more affordable, but they show signs of wear earlier than acrylic bases.
Acrylic wall kits are resistant to mold and mildew, making them easy to clean. If you forget to clean your shower for several months, and mold and mildew start to form, getting rid of it is as easy as using an approved cleaning product and wiping it away.
Perspex sheets melt at high temperatures or from exposure to direct flames. The melting point for acrylic plastic is 160 degrees C, so they cannot withstand extreme temperatures. Acrylic is tough and durable, but can also be easily scratched. The manufacturing process of acrylic products can release highly toxic fumes.
Even when wet, the shower is still warm to the touch and doesn't induce slips and falls. Durable and long-lasting, it can withstand scratches better than fiberglass. Even with these advantages, the acrylic material also has its disadvantages. For one, it is not a good option if you want a custom-made shower area.
Shower mold is a common problem in many homes. While mold can be present in any room of your house, it's more likely to grow in moist and humid areas, like the bathroom. Shower mold is unsightly, but it can also cause health problems for you and your family if left untreated.
Preventing Mold Growth with Vinegar
Store a spray bottle of vinegar in the bathroom and mist it over the shower stall after taking a shower, or add vinegar to your mopping solution to prevent mold growth on the floor.
Vinegar has been found to kill 82% of mold species! Plus, it is great at preventing mold in the first place. Vinegar contains no toxic fumes like many other agents used to kill mold, such as bleach. Pour mild white vinegar into a spray bottle, do not dilute with water.