The Pros and Cons of Different Shower Bench Materials

A shower bench is a valuable addition to any walk-in shower, providing a comfortable and convenient place to sit and relax while you shower. There are many different materials to choose from when it comes to shower benches, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here's a rundown of the pros and cons of different shower bench materials to help you make an informed decision.

Teak

Teak is a popular choice for shower benches due to its natural water resistance and durability. Teak is a hardwood that is naturally resistant to water, insects, and rot, making it ideal for use in showers and other wet environments. Here are the pros and cons of a teak shower bench:

Pros:

• Water-resistant: Teak resists water and moisture, making it an ideal material for use in showers.
• Durable: Teak is a hardwood that is naturally strong and durable, and is resistant to scratches, dents, and other damage.
• Aesthetic appeal: Teak is a beautiful wood with a warm, rich color that adds a natural and organic feel to your shower.
• Low maintenance: Teak is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional oiling to preserve its natural beauty.

Cons:

• Cost: Teak is one of the more expensive shower bench materials, costing more than many other types of wood and other materials.
• Slippery: Teak can be slippery when wet, making it important to choose a design that incorporates anti-slip features.
• Requires maintenance: While teak is low maintenance, it does require periodic oiling to maintain its natural beauty and prevent it from drying out or cracking.

Marble

Marble is another popular choice for shower benches due to its natural beauty and strength. Marble is a natural stone that is known for its durability and beautiful veining. Here are the pros and cons of a marble shower bench:

Pros:

• Aesthetic appeal: Marble is a beautiful natural stone with unique veining patterns that add a luxurious and elegant feel to your shower.
• Durability: Marble is a strong and durable material that is resistant to scratches, chips, and other damage.
• Low maintenance: Marble is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional sealing to protect it from water damage.

Cons:

• Slippery: Marble can be slippery when wet, making it important to choose a design that incorporates anti-slip features.
• Cost: Marble is one of the more expensive shower bench materials, costing more than many other types of stone and other materials.
• Stains and etches: Marble is porous and can be stained or etched by certain substances, such as acidic cleaners or hair dye.

Concrete

Concrete is a durable and versatile material that is becoming increasingly popular for shower benches. Concrete can be molded into a variety of shapes and designs, and can be customized with different colors and finishes. Here are the pros and cons of a concrete shower bench:

Pros:

• Versatile: Concrete can be molded into a variety of shapes and designs, making it a versatile material for shower benches.
• Durable: Concrete is a strong and durable material that is resistant to scratches, chips, and other damage.
• Customizable: Concrete can be customized with different colors, textures, and finishes, allowing you to create a unique and customized look for your shower.

Cons:

• Slippery: Concrete can be slippery when wet, making it important to choose a design that incorporates anti-slip features.
• Cost: Concrete can be expensive, depending on the design and finish you choose.
• Heavy: Concrete is a heavy material that may require additional support to hold the weight of the bench.

Plastic

Plastic is a lightweight and affordable material that is often used for shower benches. Plastic benches can be molded into a variety of shapes and designs, and are available in a range of colors and finishes. Here are the pros and cons of a plastic shower bench:

Pros:

• Affordable: Plastic is one of the more affordable shower bench materials, making it a good choice for those on a budget.
• Lightweight: Plastic is a lightweight material that is easy to install and move around.
• Mold-resistant: Plastic is naturally resistant to mold and mildew, making it a good choice for use in wet environments.

Cons:

• Durability: Plastic can be less durable than other materials, and may crack or break over time.
• Aesthetic appeal: Plastic is not as attractive as other materials, and may not be as pleasing to the eye.
• Slippery: Plastic can be slippery when wet, making it important to choose a design that incorporates anti-slip features.