NBS Source PartnerWhen it comes to outfitting your commercial space with shower cubicles, selecting the right material is crucial. Not only do you want a material that can withstand the rigours of a wet and humid environment, but you also need one that prioritises cleanliness, durability, and environmental sustainability. In this article, we'll explore various shower cubicle materials and delve into the benefits of Solid Grade Laminate (SGL), the recommended choice for commercial shower cubicles.
What are Shower Cubicles?
Shower cubicles, the unsung heroes of commercial spaces, offer private and hygienic showering experiences. Whether in bustling changing rooms or busy washrooms, these cubicles provide a dedicated haven for individuals to refresh themselves, ensuring comfort, privacy, and impeccable cleanliness.
Important Considerations for Shower Cubicle Material
1. Suitability for Wet and Humid Environments
Imagine a shower cubicle material that behaves like a waterproof fortress, steadfast against the relentless assault of water and humidity. That's precisely what you need! Choosing a material that can withstand constant exposure to moisture without warping, delaminating, or deteriorating is essential. By investing in a robust and durable material, you ensure the longevity and reliability of your shower cubicles, saving you from the headache of premature replacements and costly refurbishment projects.
2. Antibacterial Protection
When it comes to washrooms, hygiene is paramount. A shower cubicle material that possesses inherent antibacterial properties is like having a secret weapon against germs. It creates a shield of protection, thwarting the growth and spread of harmful bacteria. By choosing such a material, you provide a clean and safe showering environment for your guests or employees, alleviating concerns about hygiene-related issues.
3. Mould and Mildew Protection
Mould and mildew, the uninvited guests that thrive in damp environments, can quickly turn your shower space into a breeding ground for unpleasant odours and unsightly stains. By carefully selecting the right shower cubicle material, you can create a defence against these pesky intruders, ensuring a pristine and inviting shower experience.
4. Easy to Clean
In the fast-paced world of commercial spaces, time is a precious resource. Your shower cubicles should be no exception. Imagine a material that repels stains and grime effortlessly, making cleaning a breeze. By selecting a material that is resistant to stubborn marks and spills, you'll spend less time scrubbing and more time attending to the needs of your business and customers.
5. Sustainability
We are in an era where sustainability has become essential, not just a trendy word. When selecting a material for your shower cubicles, consider embracing a green revolution by choosing an eco-friendly option. By opting for materials that have minimal environmental impact, promote recycling, and reduce the use of natural resources, you actively contribute to a greener future.
Popular Shower Cubicle Materials
1. Glass
Glass exudes a sleek and modern aesthetic, creating a visually stunning shower space. It's suitable for wet environments, making it a practical choice. Glass is also easy to clean, resistant to bacteria and mould, and offers a luxurious feel. However, it's important to note that glass can be dangerous in a commercial setting due to its fragility. Safety should always be a top priority, which makes glass less suitable for commercial shower cubicles.
2. Solid Plastic (HDPE)
Solid plastic, especially the robust and cost-effective High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), is a versatile contender. It boasts impressive water resistance, rendering it an excellent choice for moisture-laden environments. The icing on the cake? Solid plastic is a breeze to clean, fends off bacteria and mould like a champ, and stands the test of time with its remarkable durability. However, before committing to HDPE, it's worth pondering its environmental impact.
3. Stone or Ceramic Tiles
Enhancing your shower space with an infusion of elegance and sophistication is easily achieved through the timeless appeal of stone and ceramic tiles. These materials offer a wide range of colours, textures, and patterns, allowing for customizable designs that enhance the overall aesthetics of your washroom. With exceptional durability and resistance to water, bacteria, and mould, stone and ceramic tiles are favoured choices. However, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as the costly and time-consuming installation process that can impact your project timeline and budget.
4. Laminate
Let's shift our attention to laminate, a true speciality of Excelsior Panelling. Within the realm of laminate materials, two options stand out: Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) and High-Pressure Laminate (HPL). Both offer a host of benefits that make them perfect for cubicles.
Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) is our top pick for shower cubicles. SGL is specifically designed to tackle the challenges posed by wet environments. It boasts exceptional water resistance, ensuring long-lasting durability without any worries of warping or delamination. Not only that, SGL is highly resistant to bacteria and mould, maintaining a clean and hygienic shower space. Cleaning becomes a breeze too, thanks to its non-porous surface. With SGL, you save both time and effort.
On the other hand, High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) is a versatile option suitable for various types of cubicles. It shares some similarities with SGL, such as easy maintenance and resistance to bacteria and mould. However, it's not the best fit for wet areas like shower cubicles due to its limited water resistance. Keep HPL in mind for other types of cubicles, but steer clear of it when it comes to showers.
Most Recommended Material for Commercial Shower Cubicles
So, what does the research suggest? Well, when it comes to finding the perfect material for your commercial shower cubicles, look no further than Solid Grade Laminate (SGL). This is not just any ordinary material—it has emerged as the undisputed champion according to our research.
Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) reigns supreme for shower cubicles, and for good reason. It boasts an unbeatable combination of durability, water resistance, and hygiene, making it the go-to option for your shower spaces.
Imagine a material that defies the challenges of wet environments, standing strong against moisture, and ensuring your shower cubicles remain in impeccable condition. SGL does just that. With its exceptional water resistance, you can say goodbye to worries of warping or delamination caused by constant exposure to water.
But that's not all—SGL goes the extra mile to prioritise hygiene. Its resistance to bacteria and mould means you can maintain a clean and sanitary shower environment effortlessly. No more scrubbing away stubborn stains or dealing with unpleasant odours. SGL's non-porous surface makes cleaning a breeze, saving you precious time and effort.
At Excelsior Panelling, we understand that your shower spaces should not only perform flawlessly but also look stunning. That's why we offer an extensive range of SGL options, including a variety of colours, patterns, and textures. From sleek and modern to timeless and classic, our SGL solutions can be customised to bring your vision to life.