Make a statement with your bathroom remodel by choosing the right shower wall panel for your style and needs. With so many options on the market today, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for you.
A bath remodel is not something you decide on overnight – it requires attention and time. Save yourself time and money by doing some research before hiring a contractor to help you out.
Below are five questions to ask yourself before choosing a shower wall panel.
What is your budget?
Every remodel starts with deciding how much you are willing to spend. The shower wall panels are not the only cost that will be incurred. There are a few other elements to consider: labor, design mock-ups, material, and time. While you may immediately lean towards fancier materials and intricate designs, ask yourself if this is the best option with your budget.
Luckily, your dream home does not necessarily have to be expensive. Many sturdy, cost-efficient materials can be tailored to your needs and desired budget.
Do take note, though, cutting costs during a remodel can cause costly repairs down the line, so be sure to choose wisely!
How much do you want to spend on materials?
There is a wide range of materials for shower wall panels on the market, ranging from cheap to expensive. Of course, you’ll want to find something within your budget that fits your wants and needs.
The more affordable options include fiberglass reinforced panels, fiberglass, and acrylic.
Mid-tier options include laminate, PVC composite, cultured granite, or marble wall panels. These materials provide a nice balance between function and quality.
The more luxurious options include optical high-gloss acrylic and granite panels.
As mentioned before, you don’t have to fork out exorbitant costs to get your dream shower. For instance, acrylic wall panels are fully customizable and built-to-order, so you’ll be able to achieve the design you want at a fraction of the cost.
How much time do you have?
All home makeovers take time. Whether you are working on a small DIY home project or getting someone else to do it, you have to consider the hours it takes to plan and complete your ideal home. What’s more – the manufacturing and delivery of materials will also take time.
Since shower walls are not large fixtures that require extensive construction, these projects can typically be completed within a day. Materials like laminate wall panels are quick to install, just like laminate flooring. These panels are sturdy and easy to handle, usually by one person, and click right in. Other materials, like acrylic, while not a one-man job, are also quickly built and can be put in your home within a day.
Does it fit into your home’s aesthetic?
Interior design is a crucial part of a home remodel; you don’t want to focus on function alone and end up with something you don’t enjoy looking at. The preference for aesthetics differs by individual, so this is something you have to communicate with your contractor to create the bathroom you imagine.
From contemporary to traditional, boho to minimalist, many different types of interior design aesthetics can be elevated with a shower wall panel. Traditional bathrooms usually follow cultured marble or granite, which were highly popular in the 1960s to 1980s.
If you want to go for a more modern look, acrylic offers a sleek and stylish option. What’s great about acrylic walls is that they can be tailored by design, pattern, size, and style. Some of these walls are even able to imitate stone or tile finishes without compromising on affordability and durability.
Is this material the best option for its environment?
You have to be extra careful when selecting a material for a place with steam, humidity, and water. Going purely for design can end up costing more in the long run in terms of maintenance and replacements.
Bathroom maintenance is no easy feat. It may even be what sparked the idea for your bathroom remodel. You don’t want to spend money and effort on your shower update to end up with yellowish hues, dark tints, or moldy walls again.
Depending on the material you pick, there will be steps to make to keep it clean. For instance, tile shower owners often face built-up tile grout that needs a good load of scrubbing to get out.
You will want to pick durable materials for the longevity of your bathroom. Granite can be sealed to make it resistant to dirt and staining. Acrylic is also a perfect solution as its one of the most low-maintenance materials for shower wall panels. Its made of a waterproof coating, making it easy to wipe down. Its non-porous qualities also prevent water damage and mold growth.
Whether you are imagining the shower in your new living space or revamping your current home, choosing the right wall panel requires care and attention. Bath Planet Tallahassee will take your home project to the next level with our tailored approach to bath remodeling. Contact us about a free consultation today!