Low Maintenance Shower Walls: Easy to Clean Materials
Interested in low maintenance shower walls for your bathroom remodel? It's an easy way to make your shower the best start to your day — not another thing to check off your cleaning to-do list!
When remodeling a bathroom, it's ideal to combine all of the wants: stylish, spa-like and simple maintenance. That's why it's key to carefully select materials for shower walls, shower pans, floors, and shower enclosures from the very start.
It is possible for your bathroom remodel to be modern and low maintenance. It doesn’t have to be one or the other!
First, let’s cover the types of materials commonly used in a walk-in shower.
Which Shower Materials are Easiest to Clean?
Here are some easy-to-clean materials to consider for your shower remodel. And what to keep in mind when it comes to maintenance and longevity.
Glass Tile
A glass shower always looks beautiful, modern and comes in every color under the sun! Glass tile is also one of the easiest materials to keep clean and is a practical shower solution.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is the grout and size of tile. The smaller the glass tile, the more grout you’ll likely have to deal with in your shower. This can increase the maintenance needs.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain is a top pick! And for good reason. Some porcelain options resemble marble in color and texture but are often more affordable.
When used in a shower setting, the ease of cleaning will depend on whether it is a glazed, polished or unpolished porcelain. Porcelain that has been finished (glaze or polish) will be the easiest to clean. The finish acts as a barrier to stains and moisture.
Ceramic Tile
This is a great option, especially for a shower floor. It is slightly more porous than porcelain, but it often has a lower price tag. Ceramic tile still stands up to stains and moisture, and you can find it in a wide range of colors and designs.
Natural Stone Tile
A natural stone tile, like slate and marble, can bring an organic look-and-feel to your bathroom. And once sealed, it is resistant to moisture, staining and chipping.
That said, it does require a special cleaning solution specific for natural stone and may need to be resealed over the years.
Granite Tile
It’s true: Granite can be used outside the kitchen! Another natural stone option, granite tile comes in a variety of organic colors.
It’s also pretty low maintenance, known to naturally deter mold and mildew build-up, and doesn’t always require special cleaning products. It’s a long-lasting selection for shower walls.
Marble Tile
Without a doubt, marble is in style right now! (And deserved its own section.) Known for its white marble backdrop with dark veining, Carrara Marble and Calacatta Marble, in particular, is a trending look.
But is it easy to maintain? This still falls under the natural stone category and does require some special maintenance. Yet, it can be durable.
Other Options
Other low-maintenance shower design options? Acrylic, plastic, and fiberglass showers offer reliable waterproofing without the need to grout between tiles.
An acrylic shower is hard to scratch and puncture. Plastic and fiberglass options are also affordable picks. (Want to know more about low-maintenance and low-cost? Learn how to remodel a shower on a budget.)
The Tile Takeaway
For the simplest shower maintenance? Choose materials with a smooth texture, no (or minimal) grout lines, and those that feature a finish. Your shower will be more moisture-resistant and easier to clean.
Also, keep the size of your tile or material in mind. Smaller tiles will have more nooks and crannies, and they may require more scrubbing. Bigger tiles (or large shower wall panels) are often easier maintenance.
Look for a Smooth Texture
No or Minimal Grout Lines
Check for a Finish or Glaze
Go for Larger Tile Over Small
Consider Shower Wall Panels
Low Maintenance Shower Walls
The walls of your shower are a key part of any bathroom remodel. It's where you can add some color, texture and personality to your space.
That said, it’s always good to keep functionality and future maintenance in mind. The goal is to enjoy your new spa-like space, not be scrubbing away on a near-daily basis.
Selecting low-maintenance shower walls are a great first step to keeping mold and mildew at bay.
Shower Wall Panels
Shower wall panels are easy to clean and convenient in many ways. For one, the installation process for wall panels is quick and easy.
They are usually made of a lightweight laminate material. It is 100% waterproof, and there's no grouting needed as the material is usually one main sheet. You can get the look of a tiled shower wall without any tiles or grout!
Fiberglass Walls
Fiberglass showers are often pre-molded. They are a great choice if you want a sleek design with an easy installation.
That said, it does require more maintenance than acrylic when it comes to stains and mildew removal. As far as longevity, you may also see the color of your fiberglass shower walls fade over time if your shower gets direct sunlight during the day.
Solid Surface Tiles
What is solid surface? It is a material commonly made from acrylic and polyester. Corian is a perhaps one of the more popular examples of a solid surface tile.
It is also highly customizable and can take on various shapes and colors. Solid surface shower surrounds are super durable and easy to clean. Any soap and water solution should do the trick.
Plastic Shower Stalls
Plastic shower stalls are affordable, low-maintenance and surprisingly durable. They are often made of thermoplastic construction and come in several panels that are easy to install. Colors may be limited. White is a popular option for these shower systems.
Plastic is smooth and easy to clean. It is a non-porous material, so staining is not an issue. Not to mention, there is no grout to maintain.
Get a Free Estimate for a Low-Maintenance Shower
A bathroom remodel doesn't have to break the bank. Take time to research your options and get materials that match your overall design while also being easy to clean.
Even easier? Work with a qualified home remodeling expert. It’s one of the best ways to save time and money in the long run.
Ready for a low-maintenance shower replacement? Renovate.co can help! Contact us to discuss your home remodeling project and get a free shower remodel estimate today.
