Acrylic vs. Tile Shower Walls: Which Are Better?

When you’re planning a bathroom remodel, you need to be sure you’re completely satisfied with every choice you make. One of the more important decisions you’ll have to tackle is which material to use for your shower walls. This leaves many Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Myers homeowners wondering Acrylic vs tile shower walls: which are better? Acrylic and tile are two popular options with plenty of differences that any homeowner should carefully consider before choosing either material for their project.

Is one shower wall material option really better than the other? The answer to that question depends on what matters most to you. What can be definitively said, however, is that one is better for your bath remodel. And that’s a conclusion you’ll only come to when you learn more about the pros and cons of acrylic and tile shower walls.

Are Tile Shower Surrounds a Good Investment? Pros and Cons of Tile Shower Wall Installation

Tile shower walls remain a classic and popular choice in bathroom design, offering timeless style, visual versatility, and water-resistant performance when properly installed. A tile shower wall is typically composed of ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles arranged over a waterproof backer board and sealed with grout. The result is a hard, durable surface that can be fully customized to match your taste and bathroom layout.

While tile has long been the go-to material for shower walls—especially when compared to older, less moisture-resistant options—it’s important to weigh both its advantages and its limitations before deciding if it’s the right fit for your space. Below, we break down the key pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

The Pros of Tile Shower Walls in Florida

With their timeless appearance, moisture resistance, and wide range of design options, tile shower walls can elevate the look and performance of any bathroom. In a humid climate like Florida’s, choosing shower wall surround materials that can withstand daily moisture exposure is essential, and tile has long been valued for its durability and aesthetic versatility. Below are some key advantages of tile shower walls for bathrooms in the Sunshine State.

Wide Range of Tile Shower Wall Design Options

One of the most attractive features of tile is its design flexibility. Tile shower walls come in an endless variety of colors, patterns, shapes, and textures—from sleek, large-format porcelain to hand-painted ceramic and natural stone. Whether your style leans contemporary, rustic, or traditional, there’s a tile that can bring your vision to life.

Tiles can also be cut to fit custom dimensions or create intricate mosaics, which makes them ideal for unique shower configurations. If you’re looking to add personality or elevate the look of your bathroom, tile offers near-unlimited creative freedom.

Durable and Long-Lasting Shower Surround Material

When installed correctly, tile shower walls can last for many years. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are particularly known for their strength and resilience. Unlike some prefab wall systems, tile is less prone to discoloration and doesn't warp over time when properly maintained.

The durability of tile makes it a solid long-term investment, especially in bathrooms where moisture exposure is high. With proper care, a tiled shower wall can remain structurally sound and attractive for decades.

Moisture Resistance

Tile’s ability to resist water has always been one of its strongest attributes. High-quality tiles combined with waterproof backer boards and well-applied grout and sealant create a protective barrier against moisture. This makes tile ideal for wet environments like showers, where water exposure is constant.

Although newer shower wall materials have improved in moisture resistance, tile still offers a time-tested solution that, when properly maintained, keeps water where it belongs.

Cons of Tile Shower Walls

While tile shower walls offer undeniable beauty and long-lasting appeal, they also come with certain drawbacks that are important to consider, especially in Florida’s humid climate. From ongoing maintenance needs to the potential for damage and higher installation costs, tile may not be the right fit for every homeowner. Understanding these limitations can help you decide whether tile is the best choice for your bathroom renovation.

Are Tile Shower Walls High Maintenance? More So Than Some Other Options!

One of the biggest drawbacks of tile is the level of maintenance required to keep tile shower walls looking and performing its best. Grout lines are particularly vulnerable to staining, mold, and mildew buildup. Without regular cleaning and sealing, these areas can quickly become discolored and unsanitary.

Cleaning a tile shower wall isn’t just a quick wipe-down; it often involves scrubbing grout lines with specialized cleaners and resealing the surfaces on a recurring basis. For busy homeowners, this ongoing maintenance can feel like a burden.

Increased Potential for Cracks and Damage

Tile may be durable, but it’s not invincible. Individual tiles can crack or chip due to impacts, foundation settling, or poor installation. While one damaged tile can usually be replaced, it may be difficult to match the color or pattern if the original tiles are no longer available.

In addition, once water penetrates behind a cracked tile or compromised grout line, it can lead to hidden moisture problems such as mold growth or substrate damage—issues that often require costly repairs.

Tile Shower Walls Installation Cost

Tile shower walls are more labor-intensive to install than prefab panels or acrylic surrounds. The process involves prepping the surface, laying each tile by hand, grouting, sealing, and allowing proper drying time between steps. This level of craftsmanship requires both skill and time, which can drive up labor costs.

While the finished result is typically high-end, the initial investment in materials and professional installation is often higher than with alternative shower wall systems. And over time, upkeep and occasional repairs can add to the total cost of ownership.

Are Tile Shower Walls Expensive?

Considering the need for regular cleaning, resealing, and the potential for repairs, tile isn’t always the most budget-friendly option. It’s a material where you get out what you put in, but that means being prepared to invest consistent effort into its care. For homeowners looking for a low-maintenance, long-term solution, tile may not always be the best match.

Pros and Cons of Acrylic Shower Walls: Are Acrylic Shower Surrounds Worth It?

Acrylic shower walls are quickly becoming one of the most popular choices among Florida homeowners, and it’s easy to see why. Designed for durability, ease of maintenance, and affordability, acrylic offers a modern shower wall remodel solution for those who want a clean, stylish bathroom without the constant upkeep that comes with tile.

Made from molded sheets of multi-layered acrylic, these walls are engineered to resist impact, cracking, and warping. The nonporous surface makes it nearly impossible for mold, mildew, or bacteria to grow, which is especially valuable in Florida’s humid climate. For homeowners who value convenience, reliability, and long-term performance, acrylic is a standout choice.

Pros of Acrylic Shower Walls

Acrylic shower walls have become a go-to choice for Florida homeowners seeking a stylish, low-maintenance alternative to traditional tile. Known for their sleek appearance, durability, and resistance to mold and mildew, acrylic panels offer both convenience and long-term value. Whether you're planning a full bathroom remodel or simply upgrading your shower, acrylic provides a smart, worry-free solution—especially in Florida’s warm and humid environment. Below are some of the key advantages that make acrylic shower walls a standout option.

Acrylic Shower Walls Are Low Maintenance and Easy to Clean

One of the biggest advantages of acrylic shower walls is how little maintenance they require. Unlike tile, there are no grout lines to scrub or seal, and the smooth, nonporous surface resists soap scum, hard water stains, and mildew. A simple wipe-down with a gentle cleaner is all it takes to keep the walls looking like new.

For Florida homeowners dealing with high humidity and frequent shower usage, this low-maintenance surface is a game-changer. You can enjoy a fresh, clean shower every day without investing hours in upkeep.

Mold and Mildew Resistant Shower Walls

The nonporous nature of acrylic doesn’t just make cleaning easier—it also prevents mold and mildew from taking hold in the first place. With no cracks or grout lines for moisture to penetrate, acrylic provides a healthier and more hygienic environment, which is particularly beneficial for families or anyone with allergies or sensitivities.

Fast and Hassle-Free Shower Surround Installation

Because acrylic panels are lightweight and pre-formed to fit your space, installation is typically much faster and less invasive than tile. There’s no need to lay individual pieces, wait for grout to cure, or worry about sealing every seam. At Morgan Bath & Shower, most acrylic shower wall systems can be installed in as little as one day, minimizing disruption to your home.

This makes acrylic an excellent option for homeowners who want high-impact results without a long renovation timeline.

Durable, Multi-Layered Construction Resistant to Damage

High-quality acrylic shower wall products—like those used by Morgan Bath & Shower—are built with multiple layers that enhance structural integrity and long-term durability. This multi-layer design helps prevent cracking, chipping, and warping over time, even with daily use. When installed correctly, an acrylic shower wall can look great and perform reliably for many years.

Budget-Friendly Shower Wall Replacements, Without Sacrificing Style

Compared to tile, acrylic is often a more cost-effective bath remodel solution, especially when you consider the lower labor costs, faster installation, and minimal ongoing maintenance. But lower-cost shower wall replacement doesn’t mean limited style. Today’s acrylic shower surround systems are available in a variety of colors and finishes, including options that mimic the look of natural stone or tile without the hassle of grout.

This balance of affordability and aesthetic appeal makes acrylic shower replacements an ideal solution for homeowners who want a spa-like shower without a luxury-level price tag.

What Are the Cons of Acrylic Shower Walls

While acrylic shower walls offer a wide range of benefits—from easy maintenance to quick installation—they may not be the perfect fit for every homeowner or design style. Like any material, acrylic has a few limitations worth considering, especially if you're aiming for a highly customized or luxury look. Understanding these potential drawbacks can help you make an informed decision and ensure your shower upgrade aligns with both your aesthetic preferences and functional needs.

Limited Customization Compared to Tile

While acrylic has come a long way in terms of style and variety, it still doesn’t offer the same degree of customization as tile. Tile can be cut on-site to accommodate unusual dimensions or to create custom patterns and intricate designs. Acrylic panels, on the other hand, are pre-formed and not as easily adjusted during installation.

However, many high-quality acrylic systems now feature design options that replicate the look of tile or stone, providing plenty of visual flexibility without the added maintenance.

Fewer High-End Finish Options

For those seeking rare materials or ultra-custom finishes, acrylic may not deliver the exact high-end feel of natural stone or handcrafted tile. But for most homeowners, the trade-off is well worth it. Acrylic offers a clean, attractive appearance with far greater practicality, especially for busy households or anyone who prefers a set-it-and-forget-it approach to bathroom maintenance.

Our Recommended Type of Shower Wall Surround

As a homeowner, you’re free to design your shower however you wish to suit your tastes. But if you’ve decided that acrylic shower walls are the best option for your home, we fully support you. At Morgan Bath & Shower, we exclusively use top-of-the-line acrylic products in all of our bathroom remodeling services. You can count on us when you want the most visually stunning acrylic shower walls and other features around—and you’ll also get the satisfaction of knowing they can be installed in as little as one day so that you can use your new shower right away. If you opt for tile instead, we respect your decision. But keep in mind that if you ever want to switch to acrylic in the future, we’ll be happy to help.

For more information about Morgan Bath & Shower’s products and services, contact the tile and acrylic shower replacement experts today.