Choosing the Right Shower for Your Bathroom Remodel

Your shower is one of the most important parts of your bathroom remodel. From the walls to the fixtures, accessories and shower door, every detail can affect how your shower looks, functions and holds up over time.

At Signature Kitchen and Bath, we offer several ways to customize your shower, including Onyx shower systems and traditional tile showers. So, which is right for you?

Onyx vs. Tile Showers

Onyx Showers: Low Maintenance & Built to Last

Onyx is a popular choice for homeowners who want a beautiful shower without the maintenance of traditional grout. If you’re not familiar with Onyx, it is a solid-surface material made primarily from a blend of natural minerals and a polyester resin. The material is molded and finished to create durable, non-porous shower walls, bases and accessories. Onyx shower walls are available in a variety of colors and finishes, including options that mimic the look of tile.

One of the biggest benefits is easy maintenance. With large wall panels and minimal seams, there is no grout to clean. Onyx is also backed by the manufacturer’s impressive “Guaranteed Forever” warranty, giving homeowners added peace of mind.

Pros of Onyx:

• Easy to clean and maintain
• No grout
• Numerous colors and finishes
• Customizable shower sizes and accessories
• Excellent manufacturer warranty
• Clean, streamlined appearance

Cons of Onyx:

• Fewer design and pattern options than traditional tile
• May not provide the exact look of individually selected tile

Take a look at this homeowner’s new Onyx shower and hear about his experience working with Signature Kitchen and Bath.

Tile Showers: Classic & Completely Customizable

Tile is a timeless option that gives homeowners nearly unlimited design possibilities. With countless colors, sizes, shapes, textures and patterns, you can create a shower that is completely unique to your home.

The biggest consideration with tile is maintenance. Grout requires regular cleaning and care, and proper waterproofing and installation are essential to the longevity of the shower.

Pros of Tile:

• Virtually unlimited design options
• Custom patterns and layouts
• Easy to coordinate with the rest of your bathroom
• Classic, timeless appearance

Cons of Tile:

• More grout to clean
• Requires regular grout maintenance
• Due to the increased installation time required, the associated labor costs will be higher.

The right choice depends on your priorities. If easy maintenance and a strong warranty are at the top of your list, Onyx may be the perfect fit. If you want complete creative freedom with your design, tile may be the better choice.

Take a look at this beautiful tile shower and hear from the homeowner about their experience remodeling with Signature Kitchen and Bath.

Shower Accessories That Make a Difference

The right accessories can make your shower much more functional.

Recessed niches provide built-in storage for shampoo, conditioner and soap without taking up floor space. A corner niche or shelf can be a great alternative for smaller showers.

Want somewhere to sit? A built-in shower bench provides a comfortable place to sit and can be especially helpful for homeowners planning for long-term accessibility. In smaller showers, a corner seat can provide similar functionality without taking up as much space.

Choosing Your Shower Fixtures

Your shower fixtures can turn a basic shower into a relaxing retreat. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose from:

• Rain showerheads for a relaxing, spa-like experience
• Handheld showerheads for added flexibility and accessibility
• Combination systems that include both an overhead and handheld showerhead
• Multiple showerheads or body sprays for a more luxurious experience

Think about how you use your shower every day when deciding which fixtures make sense for your space.

Don’t Forget the Shower Door

The shower door can have a big impact on the finished look of your bathroom.

Frameless glass doors create a clean, modern appearance and allow your beautiful Onyx or tile to remain the focal point. Semi-frameless doors offer a similar look with a little more framing, while sliding doors are a practical choice when there isn’t enough room for a hinged door to swing open.

You can also customize the glass and hardware to complement the rest of your bathroom’s finishes.

Create a Shower Designed Around You

A great shower isn’t just about choosing a beautiful material. It’s about creating a space that fits your lifestyle.

Whether you prefer the low-maintenance benefits of Onyx, the endless design possibilities of tile, a convenient recessed niche, a comfortable bench or a spa-like shower system, Signature Kitchen and Bath can help you bring all of the details together.

Ready to Start Your Remodel?

Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or simply gathering ideas, our team is here to help.

Start your remodeling journey here and schedule a free design consultation at one of our three St. Louis area showrooms.

Compliance & Disclaimers: Project timelines and results may vary based on material availability and the scope of work. No guarantees of price or completion time are provided unless specifically outlined in a signed agreement. Signature Kitchen & Bath does not provide medical, legal, or financial advice.