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Acrylic Walls
The combinations and possibilities of acrylic walls are extensive. Acrylic shower walls can be defined as big sheets of hard plastic that are glued on a surface using a heavy-duty adhesive. This makes them one of the most customizable and versatile options for wall surrounds.
Tile Walls
Tile walls have been a favorite option for most homeowners because they have a variety of colors and designs to choose from. The unlimited number of options makes them more adventurous in your bathroom design and overall décor. Despite the plethora of options, tile walls are still prone to leaking because of the nature of your bathroom, the grout applied and the shower itself. Adding a professional grade sealing on top of your tile may be a good idea but you may be forced to keep up with occasional resealing in order to maintain the appearance and quality of tile walls.
Factors that Influence the Decision between Acrylic and Tile Walls
- Durability and Lifespan
- Although tile walls are easy to get cracked or chipped, you can still maintain them with a professional grade sealing and proper care. On the other hand, acrylic wall surrounds are highly durable which makes them resistant to scratches or chipping. A properly installed acrylic wall is more likely to last longer than a tiled wall. However, three-piece or two-piece acrylic shower surrounds may develop seams that can lead to failure of the adhesive when they separate over time.
- Cleaning and Maintenance
- Tile walls can be wiped easily to prevent mold growth and stains. A grout cleaner should be used to clean the grout lines and the grout must be protected from stains and moisture through proper sealing. It is possible to replace or repair tile without having to replace the entire wall. The smooth surface of acrylic walls makes it easier to clean, as it requires a damp cloth and a quick wipe down. A non-abrasive cleaner should be used to clean stubborn dirt and soap scum. However, the primary difference between the two surround options is that acrylic walls cannot be repaired when damaged but must be replaced.
- Design Versatility
- Tile walls offer more options in terms of design, pattern, and color thus surpass acrylic surrounds in terms of design versatility. You can choose from ceramic, natural stone, glass, and porcelain tiles. This means that you have a wide variety of texture and design options to choose from when you go with tile walls. Acrylic wall surrounds are available in limited color options such as gray, white, beige, and blue. Even though some designs mimic the color and pattern of tile walls, they do not provide the same appeal as real tiles.
- Cost and Installation
- Although homeowners can install tile walls on their own, the process involved is not only messy but it also takes a lot of time, effort and more skill than installing an acrylic wall. It makes much sense to hire a professional than handle the job by yourself. Acrylic surrounds are generally less expensive than tile walls when you factor in the use of mortar, grout, and special tools. The overall cost of installing tile walls is higher than the acrylic wall surrounds when you consider all the above factors.
Both acrylic and tile walls have their own benefits and downsides. Although you may have fewer design and color options of acrylic surrounds, they are more durable, affordable and easier to maintain compared to tile walls. Unlike tile walls, they are highly resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture making them ideal for your bathroom.