Introduction
When it comes to choosing a new shower, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important decisions you'll have to make is choosing the material for your shower walls and base. Two popular options are acrylic and fiberglass, both of which have their pros and cons. In this article, we'll take a closer look at acrylic vs fiberglass showers so you can make an informed decision for your home.
Acrylic Showers
Acrylic showers are made from a type of plastic that is lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. They can be molded into various shapes and sizes, making them a great option for custom shower designs. Here are some of the advantages of acrylic showers:
Advantages of Acrylic Showers
- Easy to clean - acrylic is a non-porous material, which means that dirt and grime won't stick to it. It can easily be wiped down with a damp cloth to keep it looking clean.
- Customizable - acrylic can be molded into various shapes and sizes, making it a great option for custom shower designs.
- Lightweight - acrylic is a lightweight material, which makes it easy to install and maneuver.
- Durable - acrylic is a strong material that can withstand daily use without cracking or chipping.
- Scratch-resistant - acrylic is a tough material that is resistant to scratches and scuffs.
Disadvantages of Acrylic Showers
While there are many advantages to acrylic showers, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- Prone to discoloration - over time, acrylic may become discolored due to exposure to sunlight or harsh cleaning chemicals.
- Less heat-resistant - acrylic can become discolored or even melt if it comes into contact with hot objects. This can be a problem if you like to take hot showers or use hair styling tools in the shower.
- More expensive - acrylic showers tend to be more expensive than fiberglass showers, which may be a consideration if you're on a tight budget.
Fiberglass Showers
Fiberglass showers are made from a combination of fiberglass and resin, which makes them a durable and affordable option. They are typically pre-formed into standard sizes and shapes, which can make them a good choice if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option. Here are some of the advantages of fiberglass showers:
Advantages of Fiberglass Showers
- Affordable - fiberglass showers are typically less expensive than acrylic showers, making them a good option if you're on a tight budget.
- Durable - fiberglass is a strong material that can withstand daily use without cracking or chipping.
- Pre-formed shapes and sizes - fiberglass showers are typically pre-formed into standard sizes and shapes, which can make them a good choice if you're looking for an easy and affordable option.
Disadvantages of Fiberglass Showers
While fiberglass showers are a good option for some homeowners, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
- Less customizable - fiberglass showers are typically pre-formed into standard sizes and shapes, which may not work for a custom shower design.
- Less durable - while fiberglass is a strong material, it may not be as durable as acrylic and can be more prone to cracking or chipping over time.
- Less scratch-resistant - fiberglass is not as scratch-resistant as acrylic, which can be a consideration if you have pets or children.
- Harder to clean - fiberglass is a porous material, which means that dirt and grime can stick to it. This can make it harder to clean and keep looking new over time.
Choosing the Right Shower Material
When it comes to choosing the right shower material, there are a few things to consider:
- Your budget - if you're on a tight budget, fiberglass showers may be a better option.
- Your design preferences - if you're looking for a custom shower design, acrylic may be a better option.
- Your lifestyle - if you have pets or children, you may want to consider a more durable and scratch-resistant material like acrylic.
- Your cleaning habits - if you prefer to clean with harsh chemicals, you may want to consider a more durable and non-porous material like acrylic.
Conclusion
Both acrylic and fiberglass are popular materials for showers, each with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your budget, design preferences, lifestyle, and cleaning habits. By considering these factors, you can choose the material that will work best for your home and your needs.
