Are Acrylic Bath Remodels Really Durable? What You Need to Know

You’re getting ready to invest in a new bathtub, but you’re feeling overwhelmed by your bathtub replacement options. The prospect of installing a brand-new bathtub only for it to crack, scratch, or fade is making it impossible to move forward. Acrylic seems promising, but are acrylic baths designed to last? 

At ZINTEX Remodeling, we’ve been specializing in acrylic bathtubs for over 20 years. We might be a bit biased as a result, but that’s because we’ve found it to be the best option for homeowners who value affordability, versatility, and durability. Don’t just take our word for it! Read on to discover what makes acrylic durable (and how it stacks up to other options).

Getting Started: What to Know About Acrylic Bath Remodels

Durability is a huge part of the equation when it comes to selecting your bathroom remodel fixtures and materials. However, it’s not the full picture. Let’s take a look at a quick snapshot of acrylic bath basics:

Acrylic is a budget-friendly option that offers plenty of design versatility. It’s also a great choice if you want a fast turnover on your remodel or need a walk in bathtub that offers more accessibility to seniors and household members with mobility concerns. But is it durable? Let’s find out!

How Long Do Acrylic Baths Last?

The last thing you want is to invest in a bathroom remodel and let contractors take over your bathroom only to turn around and do it all again in a few years. Is acrylic the right choice when you’re hoping to maximize longevity?

Acrylic compares well to other materials in the category of longevity. Assuming you commit to basic upkeep (which we’ll discuss in more detail below), you can expect to get between 15 and 20 years of use out of your acrylic bathtub. After that, you may need to start looking into bathtub replacement options. 

How Easy Is It to Damage an Acrylic Bath?

When gauging durability, one of the most important things to assess is how easy it is to damage a material or product. After all, a damaged bathtub isn’t going to last for long, especially if you’re dealing with cracks that compromise your tub’s ability to hold water.

Fortunately, acrylic does quite well in this arena. It would take some significant force to crack an acrylic bathtub or the surrounding acrylic wall panels. For example, you could probably crack acrylic by hitting it with a hammer, but dropping something like a shampoo bottle won’t leave behind any residual damage.

What about issues like peeling, flaking, or scratching? While you’re a lot more likely to notice peeling and flaking in a bathtub with an epoxy coating (common with materials like cast iron), the bigger concern with acrylic is scratching. Keep reading to find out about the cleaning methods to use to avoid scratching your acrylic tub.

How to Clean Your Acrylic Bathtub Without Damaging It

Acrylic bathtubs are very easy to clean, and keeping on top of a regular cleaning schedule can positively contribute to the longevity of your bathroom remodel. 

By wiping down the smooth surface of your tub about once a week, you can prevent the soap scum buildup that can create the appearance of discoloration. However, it’s important that you’re using the right cleaning supplies to avoid scratching the surface of your bathtub or bleaching out the color. 

When cleaning your acrylic bathtub, do use:

✅Soft cloths like microfiber or terrycloth 

✅Mild DIY cleaners (such as one part distilled white vinegar mixed with one part water or a few tablespoons of dish soap mixed into a few cups of water)

✅Multisurface store-bought cleaners that don’t contain bleach or abrasive chemicals (such as 409)

Do not use:

❌Scrubbing brushes or abrasive materials like steel wool

❌Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia

Remember, acrylic is a non-porous material. To remove grime and soap scum, you don’t need to create a ton of friction or pressure. 

Are Acrylic Baths Really Waterproof?

If there’s one thing you’re going to hear over and over again, it’s that acrylic tubs and wall panels provide a 100% waterproof bath or shower system. Is this really true?

As long as your bath system is properly installed, the answer is yes, you’re looking at a truly waterproof system. That doesn’t just mean that your tub is crack-free and won’t leak when you’re using it. It means that your tub and wall panels will effectively contain all water, preventing hidden water damage and residual mold growth.

What Do Acrylic Bath Warranties Cover?

If the phrase, “as long as your bath system is properly installed,” gives you pause, you’re a savvy homeowner. What if your contractors make a mistake? What if your tub or wall panels arrive damaged and you only discover that damage after using your new bathtub? This is where warranties come into play.

Ideally, your contractor should offer you a manufacturer’s warranty and an installation warranty. This will provide financial protection in the event that you need repairs due to existing product damage or poor installation practices. At ZINTEX, we offer both types of warranties with every remodel. 

Alternatives to Acrylic Baths

When it comes to durability, acrylic doesn’t make the top of the chart. However, it doesn’t come in last place, either. Here’s a breakdown of the lifespan (and other key considerations) of other popular bathtub materials. 

If durability is your top concern, you may want to invest in an old-fashioned enameled cast iron tub. (In theory, you could even move your cast iron tub to your next house should you decide to sell, although the weight can be a huge hindrance.) If you also value affordability, acrylic is a great option. It can last as long (if not longer) than a porcelain tub and it’s not as fragile. 

Get Maximum Protection for Your Bathroom Remodel Cost With ZINTEX

When you’re on the brink of investing in a bathroom remodel, nothing is more anxiety-inducing than the prospect of picking subpar products. Now, you can rest assured that acrylic bathtubs aren’t just affordable–they’re also durable.

At ZINTEX, our goal is to go above and beyond to ensure that you have a great remodel experience, and that extends to our warranties. Discover the protection of ZINTEX warranties today.