Would you choose an old black and white television set or an LED flatscreen TV? Unless you are a diehard traditionalist, you’d more than likely select the latter. You may think starting an article on bathroom materials with a question about televisions is odd, yet, it makes a solid point. You’ve probably upgraded multiple rooms, appliances, and furniture in your home throughout the years — so why are you still using tile and grout in your bathroom?
Ceramic tile and grout were once considered the industry-standard in bathroom design. From large public restrooms to the bathroom in your home, tile and grout was commonplace in most bathroom finishes. However, advances in technology have enabled the precise construction of attractive, safe, and resilient solid surface materials that can be implemented into any bathroom design.
You’d Better Look Out if You Have Tile and Grout
Tile and grout finishes have several disadvantages when compared to contemporary solid surface designs. There are several things you need to consider when using tile and grout to complete your bathroom.
First and foremost is the inevitability of mold and mildew growth on grout at some point. Grout, by its very nature, is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Grout is a porous material that allows moisture to accumulate. Over time, water leads to mold and mildew, and if not treated immediately, will also lead to unpleasant odors. If tile and grout are used to finish a bathroom, be ready for continual maintenance for mold and mildew prevention.
Tile and grout are also susceptible to damage and chipping. If the grout between two tiles breaks, it will allow water to infiltrate below the surface leading to mold and the possibility of structural damage. Tiles are also prone to wear and can be cracked easily if even slightly hit.
The chances of a slip and fall accident with tile and grout are significantly higher than with a solid surface finish. If you or a loved one has mobility issues or is a senior citizen, tile and grout can be a serious problem. Even individuals who are not prone to falling run an increased risk of slipping in a tile and grout finished bathroom.
Installation for tile and grout can cost a lot more than solid surface installs. This is due to the amount of time needed for tile and grout installation. Depending on the size of the bathroom, some tile and grout projects can run close to two weeks in duration.
A Solid Surface Finish Everyone Can Safely Enjoy
Solid surface bathroom finishes have a multitude of benefits over conventional tile and grout configurations. A shower constructed with solid surface materials is easier to maintain and keep clean. Since solid surfaces are non-porous, they do not give the opportunity for moisture to accumulate. This means less mold, mildew, and bacterial growth in your bathroom. Your cleaning methods can be streamlined, and you no longer have to worry about hard scrubbing the grout between tiles.
For those who want to keep that traditional bathroom look, solid surface finishes can also be made to appear like conventional tile and grout installations. Solid surface manufacturers now utilize many different designs when it comes to solid surface appearances. From a patterned tile look to marble-like tones, there are various options someone can now choose from for their bathroom.
Unlike tile and grout bathroom finishes, solid surfaces are often relatively easy to install. Depending on the size of the shower, most residential bathroom installations take as little as one day. Solid surfaces can also be installed over existing tile and grout, eliminating the need to remove the existing bathroom finish prior to installing a solid surface.
Solid surface materials also come in a variety of non-slip surfaces to prevent slip and fall injuries. This provides a safer environment that everyone can benefit from.
Take Your Bathroom to the Next Level With a Solid Surface Finish
The advantages of solid surface materials over traditional tile and grout finishes are abundantly clear. Solid surfaces provide versatility, attractiveness, easy maintenance, and safety for any bathroom they are installed in. You’ve taken the time to upgrade other parts of your home, so now it’s time to take the next step with a solid surface upgrade for your bathroom. For more information about our bathroom design and remodeling services, reach out to our team today!
