Alternatives for Shower Tiles

Alternatives to shower tiles can give a touch of uniqueness and style to your bathroom design. The type of material they are made of should be resistant to water damages and withstand fluctuations in temperature. Ceramic, glass and stone tiles are some of the alternatives that will contribute to the distinct appearance of your shower space.

Ceramic Tiles

Many people choose ceramic tiles because of their elegant look, durability, and moisture resistance. Humidity and hot water don’t damage the surface of ceramic tiles. You can choose among a diverse selection of tiles, with multiple options for sizes, shapes, patterns and glazes. The 2 main types to consider are glazed and unglazed ceramic tiles. Glazed tiles are slippery when wet; so, you might think of installing unglazed tiles in you shower area. Handmade tiles are a stylish contribution to your bathroom, but you need to call a professional to have them installed.

Mosaic Glass Tiles

Mosaic glass tiles are among the most attractive alternatives to shower tiles because of their resistance to staining and moisture. They will last considerably longer than other types of tiles, with no signs of fading or discoloration. Mosaic tiles come in different fixtures and colors. You can either select a combination of colors or one solid color. If your bathroom fixtures are silver, stainless steel or chrome, it is best to select cool colors. Gold, copper and brass fixtures match well with warm colors while porcelain and covered plastic molding go well with neutral colors. If glossy look is what you aim at, you may select Venetian mosaic tiles. In general, this type of tiles is durable and easy to maintain. 

Stone Tiles

Natural stone tiles are a beautiful addition to your bathroom but as most natural materials, they are less uniform in pattern and coloration. Keep in mind that the surface of some tiles such as marble, granite, and travertine is quite slippery when wet. If you aim at stylish look for your bathroom, however, stone tiles are a definite asset. Stones may be cut into diverse sizes and shapes, with each tile looking unique because of its different natural coloration. You can choose among various types of stone.

Travertine tiles are quite attractive, but not as durable as tiles made from other natural stones. Quartzite is perfect for your bathroom shower because of its durability and water resistance. Cultured marble tiles are a good pick because of their solidness and resistance to water damage. Apart from being waterproof, cultured marble keeps its shine for many years with minimal maintenance. They are easy to install if the wall surfaces are flat and square. Chips, scratches, and minor blemishes can be repaired by re-buffing the surface with a gel-coat compound.

It is best to use the services of a professional repairman. Broken pieces and cracks are close to impossible to repair and new finish cannot be applied once the product has left the factory.