Shower ceilings usually don’t make it on the shortlist of
priorities when you’re renovating a bathroom. With so many different accents
that draw focus from flooring to fixtures, it makes sense that most people
wouldn’t give the ceiling a second thought. In the end though, it’d be a lost
opportunity to ignore the power of this blank canvas.
A pattern, color, or texture can add character to your bathroom
ceiling that once seen, can’t go unnoticed. With no shortage of materials and
designs to choose from, there’s something to match every personal aesthetic. If
you’re still not convinced, the shower ceiling ideas below are likely to change
your mind! Take a look and see how a simple ceiling change can transform your
shower into something truly special.
1. WOOD PANELS
It’s no secret that the modern farmhouse style has taken over the interior design world in recent years. With that, it’s
brought back wood paneling throughout homes, ceilings being no exception.
Offering a natural and warm feel, wood is one of the best shower ceiling ideas
for a rustic style. The fact that you can choose from a plethora of wood
species also makes way for color and texture choices; Along with a range of
pricing to fit different project budgets.
It’s important to remember that natural wood is susceptible to
certain risks, water damage being one of them. Rot and warping are key damages
to look out for. Proper sealing of materials will mitigate long term damage but
upkeep is something to consider. Damaged pieces of natural wood are also harder
to repair, unlike other options that allow you to trade out a piece that will
have the exact same color and texture.
2. STONE
Stone shower ceilings are where beauty
and durability collide! Stone comes in plenty of colors and textures, each with
an ease of cleaning that’s a major draw to many. Coming in larger sheets and
cuts, the amount of grouting is generally much less than that of a tile job. If
all of that wasn’t enough, the increase in home value puts stone over the top.
Due to its value alone, a stone shower ceiling stands to hike up that resale
price.
Unfortunately for some, this level of durability comes at a cost. Stone isn’t cheap and while it does come in different grades of cost, it’s not in everyone’s price range. Even though its daily maintenance is easy, the same can’t be said for overall maintenance. Depending upon your stone selection, you’ll have to be on top of resealing it as well.
3. STYROFOAM
A cheaper alternative on the rise,
styrofoam shower ceilings (tiles in specific) have some surprisingly enticing
qualities. They act as a great insulator which is particularly helpful in the
hottest and coldest months. Not only do they look authentic, they come in any
style you could imagine, colors too. They’re also very easy to replace should
one become damaged. Even though it’s not made to be waterproof, you can
waterproof it via a sealant or resin for long lasting protection.
The number one issue you’ll find with
this material is its fragility. Styrofoam isn’t known to be durable but this
may not be as much of a concern as the shower ceiling isn’t a surface that’s
physically used. It does also tend to stain more easily than other materials
available. Again, it might not be as much of a concern since it’s on the
ceiling but it’s a consideration nonetheless.
4. PAINT
If you’re on a tight budget but still
looking for that wow factor for your shower ceiling, paint is the best choice
for you. Bold color selections like that above create an unmatched contrast for
a designer look at a price anyone can afford. Paint doesn’t just limit you to
color though; You can also have patterns via stencils that produce the illusion
of other materials.
Paint is also a low maintenance option
that’s extremely easy to touch up when need be. Your main concern with paint is
going to be building up enough of a barrier to keep moisture out. It never
hurts to start with a primer as it stops the peeling process and helps the
paint to bond to the surface. A higher sheen will also prevent water intrusion,
though it may be a shinier finish than many prefer.
5. BEAMS
Shower ceiling beams are an excellent
addition to your bathroom’s architecture, often used to put a spotlight on high
ceilings; They can also make a smaller room appear larger. You’re not bound by
style or price with beam ceiling accents either! They come in different
materials like wood, metal, faux wood and more, offering limitless style
options. It’s because of this that the price ranges, sometimes at a lower cost
than many think.
Depending on the material chosen, you
can run into some issues. As with wood panels, genuine wood beams can become
damaged if they’re not sealed and maintained correctly. For wood and metal
beams, weight is also a concern, especially as it relates to installation.
Since these beams are usually decorative, they offer little to no support to
the home’s structure; This makes that extra weight something to consider.
6. TILE
Lately, it’s become far more common to
see tile used on the shower ceiling. It makes sense when the rest of the shower
is tile too, creating a cohesive end result like the one pictured above. Tile
does a great job at repelling moisture and its overall durability is one of its
most desirable characteristics. It’s available in many colors and is often used
to construct a custom appearance with patterns like herringbone, chevron, and
the like.
The main complaint with tile is keeping
the grout clean. Depending on the design, you could end up with lots of grout
lines that are known to harbor mildew. Also, while tile isn’t the most
expensive option on this list, it’s also not the cheapest. Tiling materials add
up quickly when you’re covering the entire shower top to bottom. It can also be
hard to install tile at the angle required of a shower ceiling project.
7. METAL
Naturally impervious to water intrusion
and mold, the use of metal for shower ceilings is an extremely functional
option. They’re also fire and warp resistant, needing very little maintenance,
perfect for the busy homeowner. You can use corrugated metal sheets as pictured
above or even decorative metal ceiling tiles that come in different patterns
and types like tin, copper and more. From rustic to modern, metal can fit the
bill!
You’d be hard pressed to find many cons when it comes to metal shower ceilings. There are a few to note though. First, while they’re very durable, if you happen to dent certain types of metals it may not be an easy replacement; Especially for materials used in sheet form like the picture seen above. Metal can also be a pricey choice depending on which variety you like.
8. SKYLIGHT
Hands down the most luxurious of shower
ceiling ideas, a shower skylight ceiling. There’s nothing quite like taking in
the blue sky and sunlight directly from above in your very own shower. Not to
mention, it takes care of the ventilation issue many bathrooms have. A
functional shower skylight allows its user to open the hatch before, during or
after; Properly ventilating the space and mitigating excess moisture causing
damage.
All good things have their drawbacks
though, roof leaks being a main one for shower skylights. With so many gaps and
crevices in the mechanism itself, it’s easy to see why. Heat loss in the cooler
months can also make the shower space too brisk. Plastic encasements may become
more brittle over time as well, also taking on more sun damage than that of a
metal framed one.
CONCLUSION
While unique
shower ceiling ideas might not be the first thing you think of when you
remodel, it’d be an amazing focal point to polish off any bathroom. From more
simple shower ceiling ideas like a bold color to a detailed install like tile,
there’s a range of options each with their own eye-catching attributes.
Don't you want
your home renovation to be distinctive and exceptional, something that a bathroom renovation
specialist can only do? It's
crucial for you to understand the process and price of home remodelling work.
