Fiberglass Shower Enclosures: How Do I Choose The Right One?
If you are like many homeowners, you are looking to get rid of that ugly, unsightly, old-fashioned ceramic-coated, cast-iron tub, and replace it with a modern fiberglass shower enclosure. But you have probably already discovered that there are many different designs and types available - and you may be confused. Never fear! We've got the scoop on fiberglass shower enclosures.
Gel-Coated or Fiberglass-Reinforced Acrylic?
One type of fiberglass shower enclosure is made using a gel coating, which is applied evenly on the surface of the fiberglass. The critical factor is that, in the manufacturing process, a high-quality gel material must be used. The coating must be applied evenly throughout the entire surface of the fiberglass. When you select a high-quality gel-type fiberglass shower enclosure, you will be choosing a fixture that will be very durable, because the finish is very hard. If a gel-type fiberglass shower becomes damaged, it should be repaired by a trained professional - yet, if they do a good job, the repair should not be noticeable and it should last and last.
The fiberglass-reinforced acrylic types are made by heating and stretching large squares of acrylic over a mold in order to form them into the proper shape for use as a shower enclosure. One of the problems with these types is that the acrylic can be stretched too thin during the molding and shaping process, especially in bends and around corners. If these units crack, they are sometimes difficult to correctly repair. Care of Fiberglass Shower Enclosures In order to preserve the beauty of your fiberglass shower enclosure - as well as extend its life - you must take proper care of it. Rule number 1: NEVER use any type of cleanser that could scratch the finish! Even cleansers that are advertised as being 'gentle' or 'no-scratch' may scratch the finish if you use to much pressure while cleaning. It is far better to clean fiberglass shower enclosures more frequently, and lightly, than to wait until it is heavily soiled and scratch the finish from a lot of heavy cleaning. If the manufacturer of your fiberglass shower enclosure recommends a special cleaner, use it and nothing else.
| 
