Installing a new replacement shower is a great way to upgrade your home. This area of the house is used nearly every day, and it's important that it's comfortable considering how private it is. There are multiple elements that go into a shower installation, and you'll have to choose from different products throughout the process. When it comes to shower bases and pans, there tend to be a lot of questions among homeowners.

In this blog, we'll go over the main differences between two popular products: acrylic shower pans and tile shower bases. We'll look at what each one is composed of, how it's installed, as well as what pros and cons it has. With this information, you'll be able to make an informed decision about what product is best for your bathroom.

What Are the Main Differences Between Acrylic Shower Pans and Tile Shower Bases?

First, it's essential to understand the difference between a pan and a base. Every shower installation will include a base. This portion sits at the bottom of the shower and supports where the homeowner stands. It also houses plumbing components like the shower drain. In many ways, it serves a structural purpose. Tile shower bases are installed one piece at a time, and filled in with grout. They're available in a range of different materials.

On the other hand, shower pans are a separate component installed on top of the base. It generally comes as one pre-formed piece of plastic that then gets laid over the top. Most bath and shower manufacturers create pans in a wide range of sizes so that they can be seamlessly installed into your unit.

The Pros and Cons of Each

There's no right answer on whether an acrylic shower pan or tile base is best. In general, shower pans are much more affordable, but this also means that they're less customizable. They generally just come in one standard material and color option. However, some pros include:

  • Easy and Quick Installations: Most Raleigh bathroom remodeling contractors can complete a shower installation with a pan in less than a day.
  • Easy to Maintain: Acrylic shower pans are one solid piece, meaning there are no gaps in the grout that have to be cleaned. Most bases are also antimicrobial.
  • Better Waterproofing: Without grout, you don't need to worry about a shower pan failing and letting water get beneath. 

Although more expensive, a tile shower base has a few advantages that acrylic does not. First of all, it's much more stylish. Tile can be customized to come in a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns, and it simply looks higher-end. However, it takes a much longer time to install. In general, tile is more durable and will not crack under pressure. Because it's integrated into the base, you don't need to worry about the shower flexing under your feet, as is the case with a pan.

Contact Luxury Bath of Raleigh to Learn More Today

No matter what you decide is best for your bathroom, the experts at Luxury Bath of Raleigh would be pleased to help. We carry both of these fine products and will have no problem completing an affordable and efficient installation in your home. We are proud to be HomeAdvisor "Top Rated" and are accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating. 

Our services range from bathtub and shower replacements to complete tub-to-shower conversions in Raleigh. Trust us for your comprehensive bathroom remodeling project, and contact us today to get started.