With showers being such a crucial part of everyday hygiene and comfort, the quality and aesthetics of your shower are an investment in both your physical and mental health. When it comes to choosing the base of your shower, there are two common options that people consider first: polymarble and tile-on. Both shower base options offer their own pros and cons, let’s explore which is the better choice for your shower.
What Are Polymarble Shower Bases?
As the name suggests, polymarble looks similar to marble, however, it comes with several distinct advantages due to being made of polyurethane resin, a gel coated surface and fillers to increase strength. Polymarble has been used for sinks, bathroom countertops and shower bases for over 35 years.
The Pros of a Polymarble Shower Base
One of the biggest advantages of polymarble shower bases is how hygienic and easily cleaned they are. Showers are always under the threat of mould growth, but a polymarble shower base makes it difficult for mould and bacteria to penetrate, meaning it won’t seep into the material. You also won’t have to worry about grout, which is one of the easiest places for mould to grow.
Polymarble shower bases are more durable than most other options available, being significantly more difficult to scratch or damage. Additionally, polymarble is a more affordable option for your shower base and is available in multiple sizes. If you want a simple solution that doesn’t require much maintenance, a polymarble shower base is a great choice.
The Cons of Polymarble Shower Bases
Although polymarble is available in plenty of sizes, you are restricted to those available sizes for your shower base, meaning that if you want a custom size, you’ll have to consider other options such as a tiled shower base. Polymarble can be a less aesthetically pleasing option when compared to tiled showers depending on the bathroom.
What Are Tile-On Shower Bases?
If you are looking to give your bathroom or ensuite a stylish and modern appearance, you can’t go wrong with a tile-on shower base. The shower tile base is manufactured from a composite that is environmentally friendly, lightweight and water repellent. Before the tiles are installed, a prefabricated metal tray is placed down, creating a seamless tiled shower base that offers more options for drainage.
The Pros of Tile-On Shower Bases
There are many benefits to a tiled shower base beyond the beautiful aesthetic. Being completely waterproof, a tile-on shower base reduces the risk of leaks causing damage to your home, particularly if the shower is placed on a second storey. The metal tray is concealed beneath the tiles, keeping the water safely contained as it drains. Other benefits of tile-on shower bases include level entry, a 7-year manufacturer warranty and customisable sizes.
The Cons of Tile-On Shower Bases
When it comes to shower base options, you can’t get more luxurious and modern than tile-on. The installation of the tray and tiles results in an increased cost when compared to polymarble shower base installation, but could be worth the expense if you’re trying to create a specific look and feel for your bathroom.
Tile-on shower bases also require more maintenance with cleaning and servicing than polymarble. Although it is often recommended that the silicon joints are redone every three years, it can be beneficial to do so every 1-2 years as a preventative measure against costly problems such as mould.
Which Shower Base Should You Choose?
Whether you opt for tile-on or polymarble shower bases will depend on your budget, and your requirements, with each option having significant advantages. Ultimately, it is going to come down to what you are hoping to get out of your shower base. If you are looking to achieve a luxurious aesthetic and give your shower a modern look, a tile-on shower base is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you want a more durable and easy option that involves less maintenance, you should choose polymarble.
Whichever shower base option you think will be best for your bathroom, the Victorian Bathroom Company’s team of specialist shower repair guys are here to help. For a free consultation with us, call our friendly team on (03) 9909 5350 or book directly via our contact page today.
