When considering a bathroom renovation, one of the most common choices homeowners face is whether to install a fiberglass or acrylic shower. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel here in Birmingham, AL, we guide clients through every step of their remodeling journey, ensuring they choose materials that suit their needs, budgets, and lifestyles. In today’s post, we’ll take a closer look at fiberglass and acrylic showers, covering important questions to help you make the best decision for your home.
Which is better for a shower, acrylic or fiberglass?
When it comes to choosing between a fiberglass or acrylic shower, acrylic generally takes the lead in terms of durability, aesthetic options, and long-term value. Acrylic showers are made by heating and molding sheets of acrylic, resulting in a smooth, non-porous surface that resists cracking and staining better than fiberglass. Fiberglass showers, while more budget-friendly, are typically less durable over time. Acrylic is also available in a wider variety of colors and textures, which allows homeowners more freedom to match their personal style. That said, fiberglass can still be a practical choice for budget-conscious renovations or properties needing quick installations. Ultimately, the best material depends on your priorities—whether you value initial cost savings or longer-term performance.
What are the disadvantages of a fiberglass shower?
Fiberglass showers certainly have their benefits, particularly when it comes to affordability and ease of installation, but they also come with some disadvantages that homeowners should consider. One of the biggest drawbacks is durability. Fiberglass is more prone to scratching, cracking, and fading over time, especially in homes with heavy daily use. Repairs to fiberglass can be tricky and sometimes noticeable, which can diminish the overall appearance of your bathroom. Additionally, fiberglass is porous, meaning it can absorb water if damaged, leading to potential mold or mildew problems. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we recommend fiberglass only when budget or quick turnaround times are top priorities, and when proper maintenance can be ensured.
What are the disadvantages of acrylic showers?
While acrylic showers are often viewed as a more premium choice, they are not without their own set of challenges. Acrylic surfaces, though less porous than fiberglass, can still scratch if abrasive cleaners or tools are used improperly. Heavy impacts might cause dents or small cracks, although this is less common compared to fiberglass. Acrylic showers also tend to be more expensive upfront than fiberglass, which might be a consideration for homeowners working within a tight renovation budget. Lastly, while acrylic is available in many colors, over time very bright or dark hues might show signs of fading with prolonged exposure to sunlight. With careful cleaning and protection from harsh impacts, however, acrylic showers can offer a beautiful, long-lasting solution.
What is the best material to use in the shower?
Choosing the best material for a shower ultimately depends on your goals for the space, but in general, acrylic, tile, and solid surface composites are often considered top-tier options. Acrylic stands out for its balance of durability, affordability, and low maintenance. Tile showers, while visually stunning, require more frequent maintenance (like sealing grout lines) and have higher installation costs. Solid surface materials, such as cultured marble or engineered stone, provide luxury appeal but also come with a premium price. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we often recommend acrylic for families wanting a long-lasting, easy-to-care-for shower without the higher price tag of custom tile work. If luxury and customization are your top goals, then solid surface materials or a well-executed tile design might be the right choice.
Is an acrylic or fiberglass tub better?
If you’re comparing an acrylic tub to a fiberglass tub, acrylic again usually comes out ahead, particularly for long-term performance and durability. Acrylic tubs are less likely to crack, scratch, or show wear compared to fiberglass models. They also retain heat longer, providing a more comfortable bathing experience—something to think about if you enjoy relaxing soaks! Fiberglass tubs, however, are lighter and less expensive, making them a smart choice for quick renovations or installations where budget is a major concern. As with showers, our advice at Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is to opt for acrylic when durability, longevity, and overall aesthetic are important to your bathroom remodeling project.
What is the life expectancy of an acrylic shower?
One of the key advantages of choosing an acrylic shower is its impressive lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, an acrylic shower can easily last 20 to 30 years or more. Regular cleaning with non-abrasive products and avoiding harsh impacts are the best ways to maximize your shower’s life expectancy. Additionally, because acrylic is non-porous, it resists mold, mildew, and staining better than other materials, helping it look fresh and clean for decades. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we have seen firsthand how a professionally installed and well-maintained acrylic shower can offer exceptional performance and beauty for many years, making it a wise investment for homeowners in the Birmingham area.
At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, our goal is to help you create a bathroom you’ll love for years to come. Whether you choose fiberglass or acrylic for your shower or tub, we are here to provide expert guidance, quality craftsmanship, and a remodeling experience that’s as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is a full service general construction firm and remodeling contractor operating in the Birmingham metro and Jefferson and Shelby County areas and surrounding communities, including Birmingham, Helena, Chelsea, Mountain Brook, Hoover, Homewood, Montevallo, Alabaster, Vestavia Hills, and Pelham, with over 30 years of servicing our valued clients. Offering full service suite of general remodeling, design and build services. Our specialties include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exterior renovations, interior renovations, painting, and more!
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