Choosing the right bathroom fixtures is essential not only to make them more aesthetically pleasing but also to make them more functional and durable. There are many options in the market, but Flexstone, Swanstone, and Onyx might have caught your attention because of their notable qualities. So, which one should you choose for your shower? We have researched everything you need to know.
Flexstone is an ideal bathroom fixture since it has been UV-stabilized to prevent staining and discoloration. Here are its advantages:
- Non-porous
- Mold and mildew-resistant
- Low-maintenance
- Can be installed over existing tiles
One disadvantage to consider is that it is not considered a Solid Surface material, which means it can't be sanded to repair minor damages like scratching or scuffing.
Swanstone, although just as ideal as Flexstone, has different qualities. For instance, it is made of solid surface material, so you can sand it down when necessary. Here are other advantages to consider:
- High resistance to heat, impact, and chemicals
- Easy to assemble and install
- More durable than other shower fixtures
- Consistent thickness
- Scratch and crack-resistant
One disadvantage to mull over is that you will need to seal it with a strong and high-quality sealer. Although it is relatively moisture-proof, it needs another layer of protection to be more durable.
Another material to consider is Onyx, which is a more expensive alternative. Here are its advantages:
- Aesthetically pleasing because of its natural look
- Lots of color options
- Has a long lifespan.
However, despite its qualities, some disadvantages can make you think twice. For instance, it is the most high-maintenance out of the three options. Since it is a natural stone, staining is easy and it can easily get damaged if it is not sealed regularly.
Bathrooms and shower rooms are spaces in your house you cannot overlook. It's important to choose the right materials so you won't have to go through expensive repairs that also consume time and energy. Keep reading below to learn more about how to choose the best materials for your shower room.
![Interior of modern bathroom with brick, gray and concrete walls, concrete floor, round white sink with round mirror above it and beige bathtub. - Flexstone Vs Swanstone Vs Onyx For Your Shower [Pros, Cons, & Differences]](https://homedecorbliss.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Interior-of-modern-bathroom-with-brick-gray-and-concrete-walls-concrete-floor-round-white-sink-with-round-mirror-ab-1.png)
Should You Choose Flexstone For Your Shower?
Flexstone is a material that was bonded together with layers of engineered thermoplastic, where a printed image of a natural-looking stone is embedded on the surface. This printed image is PVC-backed.
Flexstone used high heat and pressure to bond multiple layers of material to make it a durable and reliable shower fixture.
Here are reasons why you should use Flexstone for your shower:
Non-porous
Having a non-porous material is crucial if you want your bathroom to be highly durable and functional without a fuss. The non-porous material is the foundation that creates a domino effect of benefits in your shower room.
Read: How To Seal Vinyl Flooring In A Bathroom [Tiles And Planks]
Mold and mildew-resistant
Since the material is non-porous, this means there will be no environment for bacteria to grow. Mold and mildew grow on surfaces that absorb water, and since Flexstone does not allow water to seep into itself, bacteria won't be able to thrive.
Low-maintenance
Flexstone is low-maintenance and easy to clean since you won't have to think about water damage. You will only need to clean the surfaces with a usual cleaning solution to keep them looking pristine.
Can Be Installed Over Existing Tiles
If you're worried about the time and energy it will take to replace your bathroom tiles, Flexstone can actually be installed over existing tiles. Of course, you will need to sand down the surface if it's glossy so the Flexstone tile will properly adhere to the existing surface.
Make sure to get the Remodel Trim Molding to retain extra thickness and durability.
Should You Choose Swanstone For Your Shower?
If you want something that could last a lifetime and maintain the value of your home, Swanstone is an excellent choice. They are sustainable since it's easy to just rebuff or sand them when they form small damages, so you won't have to worry about expensive repairs.
Here are the reasons why you should choose Swanstone.
Check out this Swanstone kit on Amazon.
High Resistance to Heat, Impact, and Chemicals
Swanstone can withstand temperatures as high as 450F, making it ideal not only for heated showers but also for kitchen countertops. This ensures that your surfaces won't get damaged when it comes into contact with hot water.
Aside from heat resistance, the surface is also strong enough to withstand heavy use and traffic. You won't have to worry when you accidentally drop something on it, or if you need to place something heavy on top of it.
Chemical resistance is also essential for bathrooms, especially if you're trying out stronger cleaning solutions. Swanstone can withstand the strongest solvents, and you can easily clean the surface when you accidentally spill something.
Read: 5 Best Waterproof Bathroom Flooring Options
Easy to Assemble and Install
The reason Swanstone is easy to install is that you will be provided with a shower wall kit. You can customize the colors and patterns to make them suit your aesthetic. This makes Swanstone an ideal material for DIY-ers.
Easy-to-install tile patterns include the subway pattern for a classic look, the square tile pattern for a modern appeal, the modern subway pattern for a contemporary and sleek style, and the vertical tile pattern for added height and space.
More Durable Than Other Shower Fixtures
Swanstone is known to be 10 times stronger than other surfaces, so it is more durable and long-lasting than other tile materials. This is because it has a surface you can restore easily since it does not have a gel coat that easily gets damaged.
Compared to other materials in the market, Swanstone is the most reliable especially if you're thinking of installing this in a common bathroom or anywhere with high traffic.
Consistent Thickness
Compared to Flexstone, Swanstone has a more consistent structure that makes it easier to repair when it has small damages. Deep scratches can easily be evened out because of how it is made, so you won't have to worry when you notice small signs of wear and tear.
Scratch and Crack-resistant
Swanstone can withstand the pound of a hammer. If you actually want to cut it, you will need to have a circular saw to do it. It won't crack under extreme conditions, and it will take a lot before you irreparably damage the surface.
Should You Choose Onyx For Your Shower?
If you want something that looks effortlessly luxurious, go with Onyx for your shower. It can be a status symbol because of how expensive it can get, just like marble. Here are its advantages if you're thinking about getting Onyx for your shower room's surfaces.
Aesthetically pleasing because of its natural look
Onyx surfaces are highly sought-after because of their opulent and pristine appearance. It is a natural stone, so it has an elegantly rugged look that makes it look like an art installation.
Onyx has been used as a material to create art since ancient times. If you go to a museum, you may spot decorative sculptures, jewelry, and pottery items made or embedded with onyx.
Since it is considered a luxury material, though, you should expect that you will need to go to lengths just to maintain its elegant look.
Read: What’s The Best Sherwin Williams Paint Finish For Bathroom?
Lots of color options
Onyx is usually preferred in black with white bands, but the color options have widened over the years:
- Blue Onyx has an effortlessly opulent look because of its translucent surface, making it ideal for modern interiors.
- Brown Onyx has reddish veins that add to its visual appeal. Its earthy tones make it ideal for rustic interiors.
More common colors include Aquastone, Alaska, Alabaster, Bamboo, Bouldern, and Basilica.
Read: What Colors Go With Blue Bathroom Tile?
Has a long lifespan
If it is regularly sealed and maintained, onyx can last up to a century. However, it tends to be fragile, so you will need to pay attention to it a lot to ensure that it doesn't get damaged. Location matters, so make sure you install Onyx in areas that don't experience too much activity and traffic.
How To Choose The Right Materials For The Shower
Knowing how to choose the right materials for the bathroom differs from person to person. It generally depends on your priority and how you want your bathroom to look. Generally, there are some rules you should abide by to ensure a durable bath and shower area.
- Make sure it is mold-resistant.
- Go for a water-resistant material as much as possible. If you want a porous material, seal it properly.
- Make sure it can withstand high traffic.
- Go for one that suits your personal style.
- Choose materials that fit your budget.
- Go for one that is durable and long-lasting.
Final Thoughts
Flexstone, Onyx, and Swanstone all have unique qualities that can serve your bathroom space. Of course, it's important to choose the material that fits your lifestyle best so there would be less risk of damaging the surfaces.