Shower Surrounds
Shower surrounds are the walls surrounding the shower stall that protect the interior walls of your bathroom from water and humidity, which can lead to mold and rot. Surrounds can also add to the décor of your bathroom, especially if they are glass. If you are looking to buy a new shower surround, factors to consider are material, size, type, style, price and color. The most popular surrounds are made of tile, acrylic, glass, or fiberglass.
The most traditional way of replacing a shower surround is to install tiles over the bathroom walls inside of the shower enclosure. The tiles can be made of porcelain or marble and may be expensive, depending on how large your shower is. A more affordable option is to use synthetic, premade materials such as PVC, fiberglass or cultured marble. They are easier to install and some even come with a built-in bathtub. These materials, while cheap, require more maintenance and care.
Most shower surrounds have three sides. Some come equipped with extra features such as stools, seats, shower caddies, handle bars or towel bars. It can be a difficult decision whether to pay a contractor to install your shower surround or to do it yourself. The most important factors to consider are your budget and how handy you are. Shower installation is not always easy, and requires proper measurement, cutting of tiles and many hours of hard work.
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