Tile vs. Fiberglass vs. Acrylic for Your Bathroom

Are you planning to remodel your bathroom in the coming months? No matter the scale of your project, the first step in the process is all about making decisions. Choosing a contractor, deciding your top priorities for the project, and picking the right material for your new tub or shower are some of the choices you’ll need to make. If you’re struggling with that last one, let us help you better understand tile vs. fiberglass vs. acrylic to help you make the best choice for your needs. 

If you have any questions as you plan your bathroom project or need any bathroom remodeling tips, we are here to be a trusted resource for you. To chat with us or request a free quote, please call 704-714-5744 or contact us online.

Choosing Tile for Your Bathroom

Tile is usually thought of as a “classic” material choice for your bathtub or shower area thanks to its popularity. Often made from ceramic or porcelain, tile is highly resistant to moisture damage and comes in a variety of styles like gloss, matte, and satin finishes.

Pros of Choosing Tile

Is tile the right choice for your bathtub or shower area? Consider some of the benefits of this material:

• Variety: Many people love tile because it comes in a number of different sizes, shapes, patterns, materials, and colors.
• Customizable: Because tile is so versatile, you can use it to completely customize your tub or shower area.

Cons of Choosing Tile

Unfortunately, there are several disadvantages to choosing this material for your bathroom. Keep these in mind when making your decision:

• Difficult to install: Since tile has to be grouted, it can take several weeks to install a custom tiled shower.
• More expensive: Compared to other materials like fiberglass and acrylic, tile tends to be more expensive, depending on which option you choose.
• Higher maintenance: Tile is also a high-maintenance option, as it can be difficult to clean and the grout can discolor or deteriorate over time.

Choosing Fiberglass for Your Bathroom

Another popular bathroom material option is fiberglass. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic is made from layers of glass strings that are heated and molded into the shape of your bathtub or shower. Then, it’s finished with a resin gel coat, giving it a glossy sheen.

Pros of Choosing Fiberglass

Why do homeowners like fiberglass? Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of it:

• Easy to install: Fiberglass is an extremely lightweight material, which makes it easy to install quickly.
• Cost-effective: Fiberglass is also less expensive than some other tub and shower materials.

Cons of Choosing Fiberglass

Of course, there are several downsides to consider about fiberglass as well:

• Poor durability: Fiberglass is not made to last as long as tile or acrylic. Compared to the other two materials, it is more prone to scratching, fading, and color loss over time.
• Less customization options: Because fiberglass tubs and showers are made using a mold, there are more restrictions about sizes, textures, and colors when you choose fiberglass.

Choosing Acrylic for Your Bathroom

Acrylic showers and tubs are made from vacuum-formed acrylic sheets which are reinforced with fiberglass. The result is a beautiful yet durable material that can be installed in as little as a day. Part of what sets acrylic apart is that it’s nonporous, which aids in its longevity. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder so many people choose acrylic when their are signs they need a bathtub or shower replacement.

Pros of Choosing Acrylic

At Carolina Home Remodeling, we believe that acrylic is the best choice you can make for your bathroom, thanks to the following advantages:

• Versatility: Acrylic comes in virtually any color, style, and design you can imagine. You can even choose an acrylic option that mimics the look of tile and marble.
• Low-maintenance: Acrylic is easy to clean and is naturally resistant to mold and bacteria growth, chipping, cracking, and fading.
• Cost-effective: Acrylic is a budget-friendly option, so you can remodel your bathroom in a way that works with your wallet. Combined with our financing options, updating your bathroom has never been easier!

Cons of Choosing Acrylic

Honestly, there aren’t many downsides to choosing an acrylic tub or shower! The only thing to consider is that it can be more sensitive to some abrasive cleaners. However, as long as you follow our maintenance recommendations after your installation, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.

Tile vs. Fiberglass vs. Acrylic: Here to Help You Make Your Choice

Now that you know more about tile vs. fiberglass vs. acrylic, which one is the best choice for your home? We are happy to chat with you to tell you more about why we believe acrylic is the best of the best. To set up a consultation and request a free quote, please call 704-714-5744 or contact us online.