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Solid Surface Shower Base vs Natural Stone Shower Base

A shower base is an essential part of every bathroom. However, it is often overlooked. Even if it’s not the most beautiful element of your bathroom interior, choosing the right shower base is extremely important for a comfortable and functional space.

When it comes to bathroom remodeling, installing an elegant shower enclosure is probably the first thing you will have to think of. No doubt, a shower enclosure can’t exist without the appropriate shower base. Today, you’ve got an excellent opportunity to select the shower base that perfectly meets your personal needs and requirements. These bathroom items differ in terms of shape, size, color, style, and material they are made of. The material determines the durability and longevity of the shower base you install.

Modern shower bases are produced from various materials including fiberglass, acrylic, solid surface, tile, and natural stone. If you want to create a truly luxurious and exquisite bathroom space, you should choose between a natural stone and a solid surface shower base. Both materials are prestigious and can easily add a touch of glamour and excellence to your bathroom space. Let’s analyze the Solid Surface Shower Base vs Natural Stone Shower Base to find out which one would become a perfect match for your bathroom renovation project.

Composition of Solid Surface and Natural Stone Shower Bases

Natural stone is one of the most popular shower base materials. Just like the name suggests, the material is made of natural minerals that have been taken from the earth. Stone specialists choose the most durable and beautiful stones to create fantastic products. It’s worth mentioning that each stone has a unique pattern and color. Marble, granite, and quartz are often used for manufacturing shower bases.

Unlike natural stone, a solid surface is a man-made material. It is a mixture of mineral dust with acrylic, pigments, and resins. The mineral dust used for manufacturing shower bases often comes from marble. The benefits the material provides make solid surface shower bases extremely popular among homeowners and interior designers.

Visual Appeal

Natural stone has a timeless look and can turn any shower enclosure into a work of art. There is hardly any other material that can look as gorgeous and unique as natural stone. Marble if often preferred due to fascinating coloration and the ability to add a luxurious touch to your bathroom. It is an extremely versatile stone that can be used for a variety of purposes including shower base manufacturing.

Granite is another wonderful stone worth discussing. It is often selected for bathroom interiors due to a wide range of colors and finishes it can offer. The stone has an unbelievable decorative value and can become a great addition to your bathroom space. Quartz has a fantastic texture. It sparkles with tiny crystals making your shower base look truly gorgeous.

Solid surface is an amazingly beautiful material as well. It mimics the appearance of natural stone and adds a touch of character and style to your bathroom space. Solid surface is a non-porous material with a smooth and sleek finish. It brings a sense of warmth and comfort to your bathroom interior turning the whole place into a peaceful oasis.

Durability

Natural stone is known for its incredible durability and strength. If you are looking for a material that will last for a lifetime, natural stone is exactly what you need. Plus, this material will add value to your home. Granite is extremely hard, while marble is a little softer. Quartz is very durable as well.

Solid surface shower bases are designed to be durable and long-lasting. The base made from this wonderful material can last up to 20 or even 30 years preserving its brilliant look. Solid surfaces is prone to scratches and stains. However, the material may discolor over time if not maintained properly.

Care and Maintenance

Natural stone shower bases require regular care and maintenance to be able to preserve their exquisite look and longevity. You should rinse your shower base after each use to prevent soap scum and mineral deposits. In fact, different types of stone need special care and maintenance. Marble is known to be a soft stone that can be prone to staining and scratching. You should also remember that marble is a porous material. It can absorb water and other liquids. That’s why it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent moisture damage. Granite is a non-porous material. So, it does not absorb water and you will not have to seal it too often.

To clean your natural stone shower base, you should use mild detergents such as dishwashing liquid. It will remove dirt effectively without damaging the surface of your shower base. Avoid using abrasive cleaning agents that can easily scratch your shower base. If you notice any stains, try to remove them immediately. Old stains can be very hard to get rid of.

Unlike natural stone, a solid surface does not require sealing. This material is easier to clean and maintain. Make sure that your shower base is always dry. Remove any water from the surface of the base. To keep your solid surface shower base beautiful and shiny, you can use household products including dishwashing liquid, baking soda, and vinegar. These cleaning agents will remove dirt quickly and effectively. Abrasive cleaners should not be used for solid surfaces as well. Harsh chemicals may cause discoloration.

Cost

As you already know, natural stone is a luxurious material. That’s why it can be very expensive. In fact, the price usually depends on the type of stone you prefer. Marble and granite are more expensive in comparison with the other natural stones. Solid surface is a more affordable material. It is a great choice for those people who want to buy a high-quality shower base at a reasonable price.

Choosing between a Solid Surface Shower Base vs Natural Stone Shower Base largely depends on your budget, personal preferences, and the atmosphere you want to create in your bathroom. Enjoy the beauty and functionality of an elegant and sophisticated shower base.

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