What Type of Paint Should Be Used for a Bathroom Shower Area?

If you’re ready to revamp your bathroom, there are many options to consider. Have you thought about painting the shower area? It’s possible, although painting a bathroom can be tricky in general, and painting the shower area presents some particular challenges. Most “regular” paints simply cannot withstand the daily rigors of high humidity, splashing water, and soap scum, all of which can cause the paint to peel, discolor, and mildew. But, there are ways to avoid these issues. Here’s how:

No matter what you’re painting, the key to a beautiful and lasting paint job is adequate preparation. When it comes to a shower area, however, paint selection is equally important.

Choose the Right Paint

As a general rule of thumb, you should always buy the best-quality paint you can afford. Washable, water-based latex paint rivals oil-based paint in its ability to adhere to surfaces, dry quickly, and resist fading.

If you prefer a modern or minimalistic look, you might be drawn toward flat paint, which has more pigment particles and less resin and binders. While these qualities offer rich color and low luster, they make the surface more prone to moisture infiltration. As such, high-glass, semi-gloss, and satin paints are better choices for a shower area because they cure to a harder finish that resists moisture better and is easier to clean.

Finally, look for a specialty paint that incorporates an agent that destroys mildew. Alternatively, you can use a mildewcide primer or paint additive.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

Before applying any paint, scrub down the existing shower surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner to ensure they are free of soap scum, grime, and mildew. Then, lightly sand any glossy painted surfaces to create some “teeth” for the new paint to adhere to.

Next, it’s essential to ensure that the walls are properly sealed to prevent water infiltration. To do so, prime any bare plaster or drywall touch-ups with an appropriate primer. If the existing paint is latex-based, use a latex primer; if the existing paint is oil-based, use an oil primer and a latex topcoat.

After you’ve finished painting your shower area, be sure to allow the paint to dry for a few days before you take your first shower.

Sound Like a Lot? Consider an Acrylic Shower Surround Instead

Like many people, you might have initially thought that the easiest way to update your bathroom is to paint the shower area. Unfortunately, that’s not the case! Because there are multiple steps that must be meticulously completed in order to achieve a good paint job, the entire process can take several days or longer to finish.

The bathroom remodeling professionals at BathWraps offer a better alternative to painting your shower area. We can install a high-quality acrylic shower surround over your existing shower walls in as little as one day. Our proprietary acrylic is extremely durable and, because it is nonporous and grout-free, it requires very little in the way of cleaning.

If you’re feeling a bit disappointed because you were looking forward to choosing a paint color for your shower area, don’t be! You’ll have even more customization options with BathWraps. Our American-made acrylic is available in many classic shades, textures, and styles, some of which emulate the appearance of stone or tile. Plus, you can add handy soap dishes, corner caddies, and built-in shelving, as well as safety features such as bench seating and, secure grab bars. With BathWraps, you can completely transform your existing shower.

If you’d like to learn more about our shower remodeling services, click here to find an authorized BathWraps dealer near you.