Guide to Bathtub and Shower Surround Materials: Pros, Cons & What to Choose

Choosing the right material for your bathtub, bath surround, or shower surround is one of the most important decisions in a bathroom remodel. Your choice affects durability, maintenance, comfort, and cost. This guide breaks down the most common materials—what they cost, how they perform, and what you should expect long-term.

Bathtub Materials

Acrylic

Overview: Manufacturers mold lightweight acrylic into tub shapes and reinforce it with fiberglass.

Pros

✅ Warm to the touch

✅ Easy to clean

✅ Chip-resistant

✅ Well-insulated

Cons

❌ Scratches easier than harder materials

Best For: Homeowners who want a budget-friendly tub with modern style and comfort.

Fiberglass (FRP)

Overview: Made from reinforced plastic, fiberglass offers a lower-cost alternative to acrylic.

Pros

✅ Extremely affordable

✅ Lightweight

✅ Simple to install

Cons

❌ Less durable

❌ Prone to scratching

❌ Can fading, and crack over time

Best For: Rentals, quick flips, or short-term solutions.

Cast Iron with Enamel Coating

Overview: These tubs combine heavy cast iron with a porcelain enamel coating.

Pros

✅ Extremely durable

✅ Excellent heat retention

✅ Classic look and feel

Cons

❌ Extremely heavy

❌ Requires floor reinforcement

❌ Expensive

Best For: Traditional homes and long-term installations where durability matters.

Solid Surface / Cultured Stone

Overview: Made from resin and natural stone powders, these tubs deliver a sleek, high-end feel.

Pros

✅ Seamless appearance

✅ Durable

✅ Non-porous

Cons

❌ High cost

❌ Limited availability

Best For: Luxury bathrooms that prioritize style and low maintenance.

Copper or Natural Stone

Overview: Custom tubs crafted from copper, marble, granite, and similar materials.

Pros

✅ Unique appearance

✅ Luxurious

✅ Exceptionally durable

Cons

❌ Very expensive

❌ Heavy

❌ Requires specialized maintenance

Best For: Statement pieces in high-end custom bathrooms.

Bath & Shower Surround Materials

Tile (Ceramic, Porcelain, or Natural Stone)

Overview: Tile offers endless design options and a timeless custom look.

Pros

✅ Highly customizable

✅ Visually striking

✅ Extreme durability

Cons

❌ Grout requires maintenance

❌ Expensive

Best For: Custom showers and high-style bathrooms with proper ventilation.

Acrylic Surrounds

Overview: Pre-fabricated panels install quickly over existing walls.

Pros

✅ Affordable

✅ Low-maintenance

✅ Fast installation

Cons

❌ Limited design options

❌ Lower-end appearance

Best For: Budget-friendly or time-sensitive remodels.

Fiberglass / Gelcoat

Overview: Common in one-piece or multi-piece shower and tub units.

Pros

✅ Inexpensive

✅ Lightweight

✅ Fast installation

Cons

❌ Prone to yellowing

❌ Can scratch easily

Best For: Rental properties, basic remodels, and basements.

Solid Surface / Engineered Stone

Overview: Manufactured from cultured marble, quartz composites, and similar materials.

Pros

✅ Seamless look

✅ Low maintenance

✅ Water-resistant

Cons

❌ Higher price point than fiberglass or acrylic

Best For: Mid- to high-end remodels that prioritize durability and sleek aesthetics.

Glass Panels (Shower Enclosures)

Overview: Frameless or semi-frameless glass panels create clean modern enclosures.

Pros

✅ Opens up visual space

✅ Modern look & feel

✅ Cleans easily with proper coatings

Cons

❌ More expensive than framed units or curtains

❌ Often requires custom sizing

Best For: Contemporary bathrooms and walk-in showers.

How to Choose the Right Material

Ask yourself:

  • What’s your budget?
  • How long do you plan to stay in the home?
  • Do you want low maintenance, or are you willing to clean grout?
  • Are you aiming for a statement design or a practical upgrade?

If you’re unsure, choose materials that balance durability, appearance, and easy maintenance—especially in moisture-heavy spaces like bathrooms.

Schedule your free consultation today and get a detailed estimate tailored to your home and goals.