What are the Pros and Cons of Tiled Walk-In Showers?

One of the most popular materials for walk-in showers is ceramic tile. This is partly because it is considered long-lasting, and it is typically easy to replace chipped or cracked tiles. It also comes in various colors, and is usually easy to keep clean, but one downside is that the grout that keeps the tiles together may develop mildew over time. Tiled walk-in showers can also be expensive to install, causing some homeowners to consider other materials for their shower, such as fiberglass. Additionally, it is not usually easy to install tiles, which means that professional installation is often necessary.

In general, tiled walk-in showers are durable, as the material can often withstand typical wear and tear for years. The tile is not usually as affected by constant water as a regular wall would be, which means that it can look good for a long time without needing a coat of sealant to protect it from moisture. Additionally, if a single tile does chip or crack over time, it is typically possible to replace it rather than having to redo the entire wall.

Of course, homeowners can expect to pay extra money upfront for this convenience. Not only is the material usually more expensive than other kinds, but it is usually costlier to install the tile. This is because professional installation is typically required for tiled walk-in showers, though replacing a single tile is usually a task that most homeowners can do on their own.

Walk-in showers lined with tile are usually considered low-maintenance, so they are often ideal for the typical busy homeowner. This is because they are easy to keep clean, frequently shining after the occasional application of most cleaning products. The only downside of tiled walk-in showers when it comes to cleaning is the fact that it is often difficult to clean up dirty grout. Regular use of cleaning products can usually keep the grout clean, but once it gets mildew in it, it can be hard to get rid of. Professional cleaning companies and heavy duty cleaning products, however, may get rid of the problem for a low cost.

Yet another advantage of tiled walk-in showers is that there is a large variety of tiles, which means that homeowners can choose their favorite color or design for their bathroom. Unlike fiberglass, cultured marble, or a plain wall, tile does not have to be just white. Homeowners craving some style in their bathroom can use tile to add color, or enhance their current décor. Of course, colored or patterned tile often costs more than plain white tile, but a nice design can greatly improve the appearance of any bathroom.