As a landlord or property manager, you've likely dealt with a recurring issue—tenants who are rough on bathroom fixtures and materials that don’t hold up to frequent use. Constant repairs, worn-out surfaces, water damage, and time-consuming maintenance eat into your bottom line and frustrate your tenants. Whether it’s an apartment unit or a commercial restroom, choosing the wrong materials can mean higher costs and more frequent replacements.
The solution? Choosing durable bathroom materials for rentals that are built to last. In this guide, we’ll explore the best long-lasting, low-maintenance options for rental properties and commercial spaces—so you can keep your bathrooms looking great, reduce your repair workload, and improve tenant satisfaction.
Why Durability Matters in Rental and Commercial Bathrooms
Rental bathrooms experience significantly more wear and tear than owner-occupied homes. Between tenant turnover, cleaning crew visits, and frequent use, every surface and fixture in the bathroom needs to stand up to repeated use and occasional neglect.
Durable materials reduce:
- Frequent maintenance and labor costs
- Early replacement of fixtures or finishes
- Complaints and service calls from tenants
- Risk of water damage from deteriorating surfaces
Durability isn't just about longevity—it’s also about creating a low-maintenance, easy-to-clean space that consistently looks fresh and presentable.
Best Wall Materials for Long-Term Durability
Bathroom walls take a beating—from humidity and steam to splashes and grime. These materials are both stylish and built to last:
Acrylic Wall Panels
Acrylic is a standout choice for rental bathrooms. It’s seamless, non-porous, and resists mold, mildew, and stains. Panels are easy to wipe clean and install quickly—making them ideal for fast turnovers.
Fiberglass Panels
Fiberglass is another cost-effective option. While not as tough as acrylic, it’s lightweight, moisture-resistant, and affordable for landlords managing multiple units.
Tile with Epoxy Grout
Tile remains a popular option for its visual appeal and durability, but traditional grout can degrade over time. Upgrading to epoxy grout means a stronger, stain-resistant seal that won’t crumble or require frequent resealing—perfect for high-traffic bathrooms.
Flooring That Can Handle Heavy Foot Traffic
Bathroom floors need to resist moisture and constant foot traffic. The wrong choice can lead to cracking, lifting, or dangerous slipping hazards.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
LVT is a favorite among landlords for its balance of durability, water resistance, and aesthetic versatility. It mimics the look of wood or stone without the cost or maintenance concerns. It’s also warmer underfoot and more forgiving than tile—especially in apartments.
Porcelain or Ceramic Tile
These are ideal for commercial bathrooms or upscale rentals. They’re extremely hard, scratch-resistant, and offer a high-end finish. Choose textured or matte finishes to reduce slip hazards.
Concrete with Epoxy Coating
For commercial or industrial-style bathrooms, concrete coated with epoxy offers unmatched toughness. It’s waterproof, sleek, and incredibly low maintenance. Perfect for businesses or multi-unit public restrooms.
Bathtubs and Showers Built to Last
Not all tubs and showers are created equal—especially in rental units where tenants may not treat them gently.
Acrylic Bathtubs and Surrounds
Acrylic is lightweight, resistant to chips and cracks, and easy to clean. It's a go-to option for landlords due to its affordability and performance.
Refinished Cast Iron or Porcelain Tubs
If your property already has older cast iron or porcelain tubs, refinishing them can dramatically extend their lifespan. A professional refinish makes the tub look brand new, restoring the surface while avoiding costly demolition and replacement. This is an especially smart upgrade in historic rentals or long-term hold properties.
Sinks and Vanities for High-Use Environments
These surfaces see constant handwashing, water splashing, and daily use. Choose materials that can take the abuse while still looking clean and modern.
Solid Surface Countertops
Non-porous and stain-resistant, solid surfaces like Corian provide seamless integration with sinks and offer long-term reliability. They’re also easy to clean and resist bacterial growth.
Quartz
Quartz brings a sleek, durable finish that resists scratches, chips, and water stains. It’s a bit pricier but ideal for higher-end rentals or commercial restrooms where appearance matters.
Prefabricated Vanity Units
Preassembled vanities offer convenience, affordability, and fast replacement options. Many are moisture-resistant and come in standard sizes that make swap-outs easy during tenant turnover.
Fixtures and Finishes That Stand the Test of Time
Tenants won’t think twice about rough use, so your bathroom fixtures need to be chosen with longevity and ease of maintenance in mind.
Brushed Nickel or Chrome Faucets
These finishes resist water spots, fingerprints, and corrosion better than oil-rubbed bronze or matte black. Plus, they’re neutral enough to work with a variety of styles—reducing the need to update as trends change.
Commercial-Grade Hardware
Installing commercial-grade towel bars, grab bars, and toilet paper holders ensures these pieces won’t fall off the wall after a few months. Bonus: they also meet ADA standards, which can be a selling point for accessible rentals or senior-friendly properties.
Easy Maintenance = Happy Tenants
Durable materials also tend to be easier to clean. Smooth, non-porous surfaces resist soap scum, mold, and bacteria, cutting down on cleaning time and reducing health concerns. Tenants are more likely to keep the space clean if the surfaces aren’t a hassle to maintain. This leads to better long-term upkeep and fewer complaints.
Final Tips for Landlords and Property Managers
- Don’t default to the cheapest option—invest in long-term performance
- Choose materials that are easy to replace if damaged
- Work with trusted remodeling professionals who understand the demands of rental properties
- Consider refinishing services to upgrade without the cost of full replacements
- Keep a list of go-to materials for future renovations or unit turnovers
Final Thoughts: Build Smarter, Not Just Cheaper
Bathrooms in rentals and commercial spaces don’t need to be a constant source of repairs and headaches. With the right choices, you can create a clean, functional, and attractive space that holds up to years of use.
If you're ready to upgrade your units with durable bathroom materials for rentals—or want to restore aging surfaces with a cost-effective refinishing—Bathtub Made New can help. Our expert team provides fast, reliable service to keep your bathrooms looking their best while saving you money in the long run. Contact us today to learn more about your options.