When planning a shower remodel—whether it’s a sleek master bath in Tiger Point or a rental update in Navy Point—one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right wall material. The decision affects not just the look, but whether you can achieve a truly mold-free shower and how easy it will be to maintain in our humid Florida climate.
The three most popular choices today—acrylic, PVC, and solid-surface shower walls—each offer unique advantages.
At Academy Construction LLC, we are full-service remodelers. From drywall patching and painting to Luxury Vinyl Plank installation, we handle the entire project. We install these systems daily across Gulf Breeze, Navarre, Pensacola, and Milton. Here is our expert breakdown to help you choose.
Acrylic Shower Walls: Affordable, Durable, and Low Maintenance
Acrylic shower panels are one of the most common wall systems we use for tub-to-shower conversions and standard bathroom updates.
Key Benefits of Acrylic Walls
High Durability: Acrylic is tough. It handles the daily wear and tear of family life without cracking.
Low Maintenance: The surface is smooth and non-porous. This is an excellent entry-level option for a grout-free shower.
Warm to the Touch: Unlike cold tile, acrylic holds ambient heat, making your morning routine more comfortable.
Budget-Friendly: It leaves room in your budget for other upgrades, like a new vanity installation or toilet installation.
Where Acrylic Is Most Common
Guest bathrooms and kids’ baths.
Rental properties in Pensacola Beach where durability is key.
Remodels needing a quick turnaround.
Things to Consider
Acrylic typically comes in large sheets. Because it is a thinner material, it requires precise installation to ensure it doesn’t flex. While durable, it may not offer the seamless, high-end look of a custom solid-surface system, especially if you are looking for a zero threshold shower design for aging-in-place.
PVC Shower Walls: Lightweight, Waterproof, and Extremely Low Cost
PVC panels have grown in popularity for quick renovations. If you are updating a property in Cantonment or Marcus Point on a strict budget, this is often a contender.
Key Benefits of PVC Shower Walls
100% Waterproof: PVC naturally repels water, which is critical for preventing rot.
Lightweight: These panels are easy to handle, making the installation process faster.
Design Variety: You can find PVC that mimics the look of tile without the hassle of scrubbing grout.
Cost Effective: This is the most affordable option, allowing you to allocate funds to floor tile installation or baseboard installation elsewhere in the room.
Where PVC Works Best
Budget-conscious remodels.
Rental units and Airbnbs.
Non-custom showers needing a modern look.
Things to Consider
While PVC is waterproof, it feels different than stone or acrylic. It is lightweight and can feel “plastic” to the touch. For a luxury master bathroom in East Hill or Pace, PVC is usually not the top choice compared to the longevity of solid surface.
Solid Surface Shower Walls: Premium, Seamless, and Long-Lasting
Solid-surface wall systems are the top-tier choice for homeowners wanting a seamless shower that lasts for decades. This is the material we recommend most often for handicapped showers and disabled showers because of its durability and slip-resistant capabilities.
Key Benefits of Solid-Surface Panels
Truly Seamless: We can seam panels together so they appear as one continuous piece. No grout lines means a truly mold-free shower.
Thick & Durable: Unlike thin acrylic, solid surface is dense (¼”–½” thick). It feels substantial and permanent.
Renewable: If you scratch it, it can be buffed out. It is practically indestructible.
Custom Fit: Perfect for curbless showers and custom layouts. We can route it to fit any niche or bench.
Where Solid Surface Excels
Primary bathrooms in high-end homes.
Zero Threshold showers (Roll-in access).
Custom walk-in showers requiring precise geometry.
Closet organization design integration (matching shelves/seats).
Things to Consider
Solid-surface systems cost more upfront. However, considering they often outlast the home itself, they are the best investment for resale value. They pair beautifully with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) or Tile plank installation for a complete, high-end look.
Which Material Do Buyers in Pensacola Prefer?
When we perform bathroom remodels in high-demand neighborhoods like East Hill or Tiger Point, we always ask: “Are you staying, or are you selling?” Your answer dictates the material choice.
The "Flip" vs. The "Forever Home"
PVC for Rentals/Flips: If you are updating a rental property, PVC is a smart financial move. It looks clean and modern in photos, costs less upfront, and solves the “gross grout” issue that turns off tenants.
Solid Surface for Resale: In the current real estate market, savvy buyers can spot a cheap insert immediately. A seamless, solid-surface shower signals to a buyer that the home was renovated with care. It pairs perfectly with high-end upgrades like Luxury Vinyl Plank installation and new cabinet installation to increase the total appraisal value of the bathroom.
Acrylic for Stability: Acrylic is a “safe” bet. It doesn’t necessarily raise the home’s value significantly, but it definitely prevents the “deduction” a buyer would ask for if they saw an old, moldy tile shower.
What Happens Behind the Wall?
Many homeowners in Cantonment and Milton ask us why we can’t just glue new panels over old tile. The answer is simple: Florida Mold.
At Academy Construction, we don’t just cover up problems. Whether you choose Acrylic, PVC, or Solid Surface, our standard process includes critical steps that cheap “cover-up” liners skip:
1-The Tear-Out (Demolition)
We remove the old fiberglass tub or tile down to the studs. This allows us to inspect for termite damage or water rot—common issues in older Florida homes. We also handle drywall patching and texturing if the surrounding walls are damaged during removal.
2-Plumbing & Electrical Updates
Many homeowners in Cantonment and Milton ask us why we can’t just glue new panels over old tile. The answer is simple: Florida Mold.
At Academy Construction, we don’t just cover up problems. Whether you choose Acrylic, PVC, or Solid Surface, our standard process includes critical steps that cheap “cover-up” liners skip:
3-The Waterproofing Layer
Many homeowners in Cantonment and Milton ask us why we can’t just glue new panels over old tile. The answer is simple: Florida Mold.
At Academy Construction, we don’t just cover up problems. Whether you choose Acrylic, PVC, or Solid Surface, our standard process includes critical steps that cheap “cover-up” liners skip:
How Long Will I Be Without a Shower?
At Academy Construction, we respect your time. We know that being without a bathroom is stressful. Here is the typical timeline for our shower projects in Milton and Pensacola:
Day 1: Demolition & Assessment
We remove the old tub or tile down to the studs. This is when we inspect for any water damage or necessary drywall patching. By the end of Day 1, the messy part is mostly done, and the site is swept clean.
Day 2: The "Guts" & Prep
At Academy Construction, we respect your time. We know that being without a bathroom is stressful. Here is the typical timeline for our shower projects in Milton and Pensacola:
Day 3: Installation
For Acrylic and PVC systems, we can often finish the wall installation on this day. Solid Surface showers may take a bit longer due to the custom scribing required for a perfect fit.
Day 4: Finishing Touches
We install the trim, the glass doors, and apply the final silicone seal. After a short curing period (usually 24 hours), your new shower is ready to use.
What Can You Expect to Spend?
We know price is a major factor for families in Gulf Breeze and Navarre. While every bathroom has different dimensions, here is a general cost ratio to help you budget for your renovation:
PVC (The Budget Saver)
We know price is a major factor for families in Gulf Breeze and Navarre. While every bathroom has different dimensions, here is a general cost ratio to help you budget for your renovation:
Acrylic (The Mid-Range)
Typically costs 1.5x to 2x more than PVC. The jump in price reflects the thicker material and the thermoformed corners. It is a solid investment for bathroom remodels where you want durability without the premium price tag of stone.
Solid Surface (The Premium Investment)
We know price is a major factor for families in Gulf Breeze and Navarre. While every bathroom has different dimensions, here is a general cost ratio to help you budget for your renovation:
Acrylic vs. PVC vs. Solid Surface: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Acrylic | PVC | Solid Surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Mid Range | Budget Friendly | Premium |
| Durability | High | Moderate | Very High |
| Appearance | Good | Good–Moderate | Excellent |
| Installation Speed | Fast | Fast | Medium |
| Custom Sizing | Limited | Moderate | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Very Low | Very Low | Very Low |
| Best For | Guest baths, rentals | Budget remodels | Primary baths, high-end remodels |
Keeping Your Shower Mold-Free
One reason our clients in Tiger Point and Navy Point choose these materials is to escape the endless scrubbing required by tile grout. However, each material needs specific care to stay beautiful:
Acrylic Care
Best Cleaners: Use non-abrasive cleaners like dish soap or vinegar.
Avoid: Scouring pads or harsh chemicals like bleach, which can dull the glossy finish over time.
Pro Tip: A simple squeegee after every shower keeps acrylic looking brand new for years
PVC Care
Best Cleaners: Simply wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Avoid: Be careful with hair dyes or harsh solvents (like nail polish remover), which can permanently stain the laminate surface.
Seams: Pay extra attention to the seams where panels meet to ensure no mold develops.
Solid Surface Care
Best Cleaners: This is the easiest to live with. You can use standard household cleaners.
The “Renewable” Advantage: If you ever get a stubborn stain (like hair dye) or a scratch, you can actually use a Scotch-Brite pad to buff it right out. It is the only material on this list that is truly renewable.
The "Sensory Test": How Do They Feel?
Specs are important, but you have to live with this shower every day. Here is the sensory breakdown of what you will experience:
The Sound Test
| Material | Sound Quality |
|---|---|
| Acrylic | Can sound slightly hollow when tapped if not installed with heavy foam backing. |
| PVC | Sounds thin or plastic-like due to the lightweight core. |
| Solid Surface | Produces a dull, solid “thud,” like real stone; quietest option. |
The Touch Test
| Material | Touch & Heat Feel |
|---|---|
| Acrylic | Warm and smooth; heats up quickly with water. |
| PVC | Ambient temperature with a light texture. |
| Solid Surface | Smooth, heavy, retains heat extremely well for a spa-like experience. |
Which Shower Wall Material Is Best for You?
Every bathroom in Northwest Florida is different. Here are our quick guidelines:
Choose Acrylic if: You want a reliable, attractive update for a family bathroom that is easy to clean.
Choose PVC if: You are fixing up a rental in Pensacola or need a waterproof solution on a tight budget.
Choose Solid Surface if: You want a luxury, seamless shower that is easy to enter (perfect for disabled showers) and adds genuine value to your home.
Why Northwest Florida Homeowners Choose Academy Construction?
At Academy Construction LLC, we are more than just shower installers. We are complete bathroom renovation specialists serving Navarre, Gulf Breeze, Pensacola, and neighbors in Pace and Milton.
Our customers trust us because we handle the tricky details:
Full Service: We don’t just do walls. We handle moving toilets, electrical light installation, and even kitchen cabinet refinishing.
Accessibility Experts: We specialize in curbless showers and handicapped showers that look beautiful, not institutional.
Finishing Touches: From drywall patching and texturing to new cabinet installation, we leave your home spotless.
Whether you need a simple vinyl plank installation or a complete master bath overhaul with closet organization, we deliver results that withstand our local humidity.
Get a Free Quote for Your Shower Remodel
Ready to upgrade your home? Academy Construction LLC offers free estimates for homeowners across Tiger Point, Marcus Point, Navy Point, and beyond.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover which wall system is right for you!
