Acrylic vs Tile Showers: What’s Best for Your Olympia Bathroom Remodel?

If you're planning a bathroom remodel in Olympia, WA, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing between an acrylic or tile shower. Each option has its pros and cons, and the right fit depends on your budget, design vision, and how much maintenance you’re willing to take on over time.

At Mountain Peak Construction, we help homeowners across Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater design showers that look beautiful and perform well for years. Whether you're updating a small guest bath or creating a spa-style primary suite, here's what you need to know when comparing acrylic vs tile showers.

What Is an Acrylic Shower?

Acrylic showers are pre-formed shower bases and wall panels made from reinforced plastic. These units are typically molded into a single piece or multi-panel system, which makes them fast and easy to install.

Pros of Acrylic Showers:

• Quick installation (1–2 days in most cases)

• Seamless design means fewer grout lines

• Easy to clean and mold-resistant

• More affordable than custom tile

• Great for resale and budget-conscious renovations

Cons of Acrylic Showers:

• Limited color and style choices

• May feel less “high-end” than tile

• Susceptible to scratching if not maintained properly

We’ve installed many bath surrounds using high-quality acrylic panels. They’re especially ideal for rentals, guest baths, or homeowners looking for a durable, low-maintenance solution that still looks sleek.

What Is a Tile Shower?

A tile shower is built on-site using individual tiles and mortar over a waterproof base. This option offers the most customization when it comes to color, layout, and design.

Pros of Tile Showers:

• Endless design options: textures, colors, patterns

• Adds luxury and resale value

• Can be fully customized to fit unique layouts

• Works well with built-in benches, niches, or steam showers

Cons of Tile Showers:

• Higher material and labor costs

• Longer installation time (usually 4–7 days)

• Grout requires regular sealing and maintenance

• Not ideal for fast turnaround projects

Tile is a top choice for many bathroom remodels where the client wants to create a high-end look or match existing finishes.

Olympia Homeowners: Which Is Right for You?

We’ve worked with clients throughout Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater—and here’s what we’ve found matters most when choosing between tile and acrylic:

Choose Acrylic If:

• You’re on a tight budget

• You need a fast turnaround

• You want something easy to clean

• You’re remodeling a rental or guest bath

Choose Tile If:

• You’re building a luxury or primary bathroom

• You want complete control over the style

• You’re prepared for regular grout maintenance

• You plan to stay in the home long-term

We’re happy to help you weigh the options in person during your design consultation. Whether you’re replacing your whole shower or planning a full remodel that includes cabinet upgrades, new flooring, or siding, we can build a plan around your needs.

Recent Projects: Tile & Acrylic Installs in Thurston County

A homeowner in Lacey recently went with a cultured marble acrylic surround to replace an aging fiberglass unit. The result? A bright, seamless look that’s easy to wipe down and made the whole space feel brand new.

Meanwhile, a family in Olympia went all-in on a custom tile shower with a mosaic inlay and built-in shelf niches—paired with underfloor heating and natural stone tile. It took a bit longer to install, but the payoff was a spa-like experience.

See more of our past remodels on our homepage or reach out to get inspired.