Choosing the Right Shower Surface: A Complete Guide to Tile, Acrylic, & Solid Surface Options

Sorting through shower wall options to find the best fit for your bathroom?

In this blog, we're comparing solid surface shower walls, acrylic, and custom tile so you can choose the best shower wall materials for your bathroom. 

Here’s the short version: Tile is stylish and fully custom; solid surface brings seamless shower walls, low-maintenance care, and a faster, budget-friendlier install; acrylic keeps it simple.

Read on to get a detailed comparison, maintenance tips for each material, and answers to frequently asked questions. 

On this page: 

At-a-Glance Quick Comparison
Is Solid Surface Good for Showers?
What Are the Benefits of Solid Surface Showers?
Are Solid Surface Shower Panels Easier to Install and Maintain Than Tile?
Maintenance & Care Tips for Solid Surface, Acrylic, & Tile
FAQs About Solid Surface Showers

At-a-Glance Quick Comparison

Here’s the fast way to see solid surface vs tile shower vs acrylic when you’re choosing the best shower wall materials for your home.

Is Solid Surface Good for Showers?

Yes, solid surface shower walls are an excellent choice. Made from cast mineral/resin solid surface shower wall panels, they’re non-porous and scribe-to-fit for a tight, clean installation.

Fewer seams mean fewer places for moisture to linger, delivering that coveted seamless shower look and easier upkeep.

Where It Fits Best

• Quick-turn-around remodels where you want a fast, polished update with minimal disruptions

• Secondary baths, guest suites, and children's bathrooms that need a quick, modern refresh that's easy to keep clean

• In humid, coastal conditions that require mold resistance

• When you want design versatility and low maintenance with stone-look finishes and subtle textures without the upkeep of grout

What Are the Benefits of Solid Surface Showers?

If you want a crisp, modern look without the upkeep of grout, solid surface shower walls are a standout. 

Check out why Sarasota homeowners choose solid surface shower updates: 

• Low maintenance shower walls: No grout to seal, no haze to scrub.

• Mold/mildew resistance: Non-porous panels help prevent moisture from settling in.

• Seamless corners: Fewer joints = fewer places for water to linger.

• Easy cleaning: Gentle, non-abrasive cleaners keep surfaces looking new.

• Modern looks: Stone-look textures, soft matte finishes, and sleek lines.

Sarasota advantage: In coastal humidity, solid surface excels—stable, hygienic, and simple to maintain.

It’s also a smart value play: Compared to custom tile, installs are faster (often 1–2 days) and land at a lower total cost, making it ideal for cutting costs and the time your bathroom will be inaccessible.

Thinking about solid surface shower wall panels? GDB Express installs them quickly, cleanly, and with clear pricing. Book a quick consult and we’ll map your options.

Are Solid Surface Shower Panels Easier to Install and Maintain Than Tile?

In a word, yes. For many homeowners, solid surface shower walls are simpler to install and easier to care for than custom tile, especially when speed and day-to-day upkeep matter.

Pros of Solid Surface:

• Quick install: Often completed in 1–2 days with minimal disruption.

• Low maintenance shower walls: No grout to seal; just wipe clean with gentle cleaners.

• Seamless shower walls look: Tight corners and limited joints reduce places for moisture to linger.

• Sturdy, premium feel: Thick, non-porous panels resist stains and swelling.

How It Compares:

• Versus tile: Tile offers unmatched design freedom, but needs grout care and a longer install timeline.

• Versus acrylic: Solid surface feels more premium and substantial, with a sleeker, more seamless aesthetic.

Maintenance & Care Tips for Solid Surface, Acrylic, & Tile

Solid Surface 

• Use non-abrasive, pH-neutral cleaners and a microfiber cloth.

• Squeegee after each use to prevent hard-water spots and soap film.

• Avoid scouring pads, bleach, acetone, or harsh solvents that can dull the finish.

   

Acrylic 

• Clean with mild, non-abrasive cleaners and a soft cloth; rinse and dry.

• Skip ammonia, bleach, abrasive powders, steel wool, and “magic eraser” pads.

• Light surface marks can sometimes be buffed with plastic polish, but check the manufacturer’s guidance.

Tile 

• The tile itself wipes clean with a neutral pH cleaner; the key is maintenance of the tile shower walls and the grout.

• Seal grout on a schedule (typically every 6–12 months, per product instructions).

• Squeegee daily and run the vent fan during and after showers to reduce moisture.

• Refresh caulk at joints as needed and spot-treat mildew promptly with a grout-safe cleaner.

FAQs About Solid Surface Showers

Will a solid surface shower devalue my home?

• No. When installed well, solid surface shower walls add function, a fresh look, and easy upkeep, which is exactly what many buyers want. 

Can I add glass doors, niches, or benches?

• Absolutely. Solid surface shower wall panels pair beautifully with frameless glass, integrated niches, corner caddies, and fold-down or fixed benches.
• However, this will lengthen the remodel time and increase your cost. Your project will also require our design-build method to complete the project.

What about a warranty?

• You’ll receive a written labor warranty plus manufacturer coverage for the wall system and components. We’ll also review care guidelines at closeout so you know what’s protected and how to keep your warranty valid.

Still Not Sure What the Best Choice Is for You? We Can Help!

At the end of the day, the “best” choice for your bathroom update really depends on your goals, timeline, and style.

If you want speed, value, and low maintenance, solid surface is hard to beat. Prefer fully bespoke patterns and mosaics? Custom tile through Gilbert Design Build's full design-build team is the way to go.

Ready to compare options for your Sarasota shower? Book a quick consult for a fast, seamless solid-surface install. We’ll guide you to the right fit for your bathroom.