Traditional tile has long been a widely used surface material in washroom and shower areas. Available in many sizes, shapes and colors, tile offers a water-resistant surface at an affordable price-point upfront.
For the Facility Manager, today’s options for surfaces – both floors and walls – are extensive. Tile is now not an automatic choice for wet room areas, as other materials have made their way into the market. PVC Hygienic Wall Cladding and Solid Surface are now used extensively. Let’s take a look at their advantages over tile…
PVC Hygienic Wall Cladding
An impermeable wall cladding, installed with accessory trims or a heat-welded joint system, provides a watertight, wipe-clean surface, and is available in a variety of finishes. It eliminates grout lines, reducing maintenance and labor costs and makes for easier cleaning.
Installing the PVC Hygienic Wall Cladding is technical, however and should only be installed by a trained professional. Furthermore, it is not suited for flooring applications, as its smooth surface creates a slip and fall risk.
Solid Surface
Traditionally used as a horizontal surface or counter-top material, Solid Surface is now used more and more in wet room areas. Its non-porous properties prevent water from seeping through to the wall construction and, as with PVC Hygienic Wall Cladding, it eliminates grout and does not support the growth of mold and mildew.
Shower receptors can be manufactured with Solid Surface too. This makes for a complete shower system when used in conjunction with Solid Surface wall panels. Using a solid poured shower receptor means maximum durability vs. foam filled receptors.
Initial material costs can be more than tile upfront, but the long-term maintenance saving advantages are significant.
Although tile serves the purpose, for the facility thinking long-term there are better options for wet room areas. By eliminating the grout lines and using a smooth, wipe-clean surface, a wet room area will look better, perform better, and stay that way.
Source: New feed
