Acrylic vs. Fiberglass Shower: Which is Best for my Bathroom?
Published on Thursday September 10, 2020
Choosing what type of shower to install during your bath remodel can be a weighty decision. Bathroom upgrades can really help increase the value of your home when it comes time to sell, so it’s important to plan out your remodel with the goal of getting the best return on your investment in mind.
Not to mention that you’ll want your new bathroom to fit your family’s needs and home style.
The material used in your shower stall has a significant impact on its longevity. That said, weighing the differences between an acrylic and fiberglass shower is a critical step in your bath remodel decision-making process.
What’s the Difference Between Acrylic and Fiberglass Showers?
When considering an acrylic versus fiberglass shower base, there are a few factors that homeowners need to keep in mind. Typically, acrylic and fiberglass shower units are both low-cost alternative options to ceramic or stone tiles.
Additionally, they are low-maintenance when compared against other choices, and both acrylic and fiberglass are easier to install. While acrylic is far harder to stain than fiberglass, neither require the same degree of grout sealing and cleaning to keep looking fresh compared to many other expensive choices.
All of that being said, there are quite a few differences between acrylic and fiberglass, particularly regarding durability and expected lifespan. Here are key acrylic vs. fiberglass shower base differences to consider.
Customization
When choosing an acrylic tub or shower base, you often have a wide variety of texture, color, and fixture options to choose from.
Acrylic showers are made from large sheets of acrylic and reinforced with glass fibers and resin, so they actually have some fiberglass in them. They are heated and stretched into a mold by way of a vacuuming form process, after which a resin/glass fiber material is applied to strengthen it.
Fiberglass shower bases are made with polyester resin mixed with woven glass fibers. It might be sprayed with a gel coating to keep it from fading as quickly. The material is poured into a mold to create one unit without seams. These units are typically restricted to certain sizes and are not available in as wide a variety of textures and colors compared to acrylic.
Durability
The differences between fiberglass and acrylic showers and tubs extends beyond aesthetics. When it comes to durability, acrylic lasts much longer than fiberglass. Acrylic is harder to scratch or puncture than fiberglass, and therefore requires fewer repairs and typically has a longer life expectancy. Fiberglass is much more susceptible to color loss, scratching, and damage.
However, if the fiberglass is damaged over time, it is relatively easy and affordable to repair or replace.
Price
While both options are on the affordable side of shower materials, acrylic stalls tend to be slightly more expensive than fiberglass. However, this price difference is because acrylic lasts longer, is easier to maintain, and requires fewer repairs over time. Fiberglass, while one of the least expensive materials, will likely need to be replaced sooner than an acrylic shower base or tub.
Ready to Upgrade Your Shower?
When it comes to choosing an acrylic vs. fiberglass shower for your home, acrylic offers far more benefits for the cost than fiberglass. With an acrylic shower base, you get customization and durability for an affordable price.
Whether you’re looking for a shower replacement or to convert a bathtub into a shower, trust Long Baths™ to deliver the best materials and unparalleled craftsmanship — because the quality you notice often comes from the details you don’t. Visit us online today to get a quote or schedule a free, in-home consultation.
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