The Disadvantages To Installing A Tiled Shower In Your Bathroom

Tiled showers are incredibly popular and offer some great advantages to homeowners. They are resistant to dents and scratches, stand up well against harsh cleaners, and are long-lasting. Shower tiles also offer an appearance that will stand the test of time, and there are numerous color and style options to choose from. You can even bring funky patterns into your shower with trendy tiles if you prefer.

Despite these apparent benefits, however, tiled showers have their negatives. For one thing, installation can be pretty difficult and time-consuming. Tile shower installation is a painstaking process, since each tile will need to be placed one at a time. The detailed construction of a tile shower requires patience, and it will be necessary to leave drying time between each step. It could cost quite a bit more in labor than other options — while it's possible to handle DIY, a professional is recommended to get it right. The shower tiles themselves also tend to be expensive compared to acrylic and PVC showers, depending on the tile materials used. Once installed, staying on top of maintenance is also critical. Grout needs to be taken care of well, otherwise mold and mildew growth is possible.

Although tiles are water-resistant, they aren't waterproof. The grout of tile showers needs to be taken care of well since the porous material absorbs water. The grout should be sealed before using your shower and should be resealed on a regular basis. While it's possible that tiled shower floors and walls will last 50 years or more, they could deteriorate sooner if not maintained well, even within a decade or less. You'll need to care for the shower and use some of the top DIY grout-cleaning methods to keep it in good shape. You should reseal the grout at least once a year to ensure that the water doesn't cause damage and lead to staining, discoloration, or mold and mildew. 

In addition to being aware of maintenance needs, keep in mind that repairs can be difficult. While shower tiles are resistant to scratches and dents, they can crack and chip. Although you may be able to replace a single, cracked tile if necessary, an exact replacement tile can't always be found if you need one years down the line.