Types of Tub and Shower Surrounds

• There are two main types of tub and shower surrounds: prefabricated and custom built. It is a big decision deciding which option to choose because it is a permanent decision. Most pre-fabricated or pre-fab tub and shower surrounds are made from either fiberglass or acrylic materials. A custom-built tub and shower surround is most commonly made from materials such as tile, glass or stone. When it comes to quality and appearance there is not that much difference between the two types of tub and shower surrounds; it just comes down to personal preference.
  
  Pre-fab surrounds come in a variety of colors, textures and shapes, and are ready to be installed immediately. Pre-fab surrounds can also conveniently be installed by do-it-yourself-ers, which can also save you money. Pre-fab surrounds are also made in sections which are great for fitting through small spaces and can also help to cover up uneven walls, and they also adjust to fit out-of-plumb walls.
  
  Custom-built tub and shower surrounds are built by contractors such as carpenters or tilers. It is also possible for a handy do-it-yourselfer to custom-build their own tub and shower surround if they have the right tools and supplies. When choosing a custom-built style for your tub and shower surround you first need to decide if you want a floor-to-ceiling wall, a partial-height wall or deco tile trim.
  
  

Advantages and Disadvantages

• There are many different reasons to choose either a pre-fab tub and shower surround or one that is custom-built. Some advantages to having a pre-fab tub and shower surround is that they are less expensive, install fast and easily, are flexible to problem areas, durable and can be installed by yourself. However, pre-fab surrounds do not have as many designs as that of a custom-built shower and tub surround, and they are only available in certain sizes.
  
  The advantages to custom-built designs are that they can be unique to your home. Custom-built surrounds have an endless number of design styles available. They add value to the home and they can be adjusted to fit any size space. The disadvantages of custom-built surrounds are that they tend to be pricier, they usually have to be installed by professionals, and can get leaks and cracks in them as the house settles.