What are the best shower surround options?
Choosing the Perfect Shower Surround: A Guide to Styles, Materials & Features
When updating or remodeling a bathroom, your shower surround plays a major role in both the look and function of the space. It protects your walls from water, anchors your style, and can even increase your home’s value.
But with so many options—tile, glass, acrylic, stone—how do you choose the right one?
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular shower surround materials and styles, so you can make an informed, stylish decision.
🟫 1. Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Style: Classic to modern
Cost: Moderate to high
Maintenance: Medium (requires grout cleaning)
Pros:
Huge variety of colors, shapes, and patterns
Works for both traditional and modern styles
Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
Grout needs regular maintenance
Installation can be more expensive and time-consuming
Best for: Custom designs, accent walls, and high-end bathrooms
⚪ 2. Acrylic or Fiberglass Panels
Style: Simple, clean
Cost: Low to moderate
Maintenance: Easy
Pros:
Affordable and widely available
Quick installation (often one day)
Seamless, so easy to clean
Cons:
Less customizable in style or color
May scratch or dull over time
Best for: Budget remodels, rental homes, or low-maintenance needs
🪨 3. Solid Surface (e.g., Corian, cultured marble, Onyx Collection)
Style: Sleek, contemporary
Cost: Moderate to high
Maintenance: Easy
Pros:
Non-porous and resistant to mold and stains
Low-maintenance and grout-free
Can mimic stone or be custom-colored
Cons:
Higher upfront cost than fiberglass
Can chip if struck hard
Best for: Mid- to high-end bathrooms with a modern feel
🌑 4. Natural Stone (Marble, Slate, Granite, Travertine)
Style: Luxurious, organic
Cost: High
Maintenance: Moderate to high (requires sealing)
Pros:
High-end, spa-like feel
Unique veining and natural beauty
Boosts resale appeal
Cons:
Requires sealing and more upkeep
Can be costly to install
Best for: Luxury master bathrooms and statement spaces
🪟 5. Glass Shower Walls
Style: Modern, open
Cost: Moderate to high
Maintenance: Medium (needs regular cleaning)
Pros:
Visually opens up the space
Showcases tile or stone behind it
Can be frameless, semi-frameless, or fully framed
Cons:
Water spots and soap scum need regular attention
Custom sizing adds cost
Best for: Smaller bathrooms or those with decorative tile that you want to show off
🟫 6. Laminate Shower Panels
Style: Clean and modern
Cost: Moderate
Maintenance: Easy
Pros:
Looks like tile or stone without grout lines
Water-resistant and easy to install
Can be applied over existing surfaces
Cons:
Less customizable than real tile or stone
Limited availability depending on market
Best for: Quick remodels or design flexibility on a budget
🧽 What to Consider When Choosing a Shower Surround
Style: Do you want something clean and simple or bold and custom?
Budget: What can you afford now, and what adds resale value later?
Maintenance: Do you want low-effort cleaning or are you okay with regular upkeep?
Durability: Will it stand up to kids, pets, or heavy use?
Final Thoughts
Your shower surround isn't just about function—it’s a major design feature in your bathroom. Whether you’re going for affordable and easy, or custom and luxurious, there's a perfect option for every style and budget.
Sincerely~ The Design Center of Orofino Idaho
