When planning a bathroom remodel, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is what to use for your shower walls. Homeowners often compare Onyx vs tile shower walls, weighing factors like appearance, durability, maintenance, and overall cost. Both options can deliver beautiful results, but they’re very different in how they perform and how much upkeep they require.
At Bathtub Made New, we specialize in installing Onyx shower wall systems and refinishing existing tile , so we know firsthand the pros and cons of both choices. Here’s what you should know before making your decision.
Appearance and Design Options
A bathroom remodel isn’t just about function—it’s about creating a space you’ll enjoy every day.
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Onyx Shower Walls: Onyx is engineered to deliver a luxurious, high-end look with a fraction of the maintenance. Available in dozens of colors, finishes, and patterns, Onyx panels can mimic the beauty of natural stone or create a bold, modern statement with solid colors. The seamless finish also makes the entire shower feel more open and spacious.
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Tile Shower Walls: Tile has been a go-to material for decades because of its endless variety. From timeless subway tile to intricate mosaic designs, tile allows for nearly unlimited customization. If you enjoy mixing colors, patterns, or textures, tile might give you the design flexibility you’re looking for.
Durability and Longevity
Shower walls should stand up to daily use while maintaining their beauty for years.
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Onyx: Onyx wall panels are solid, non-porous, and built for long-term performance. They resist scratches, stains, and chips, and because there are no grout lines, there’s less opportunity for water to seep in and cause damage. With proper care, Onyx can last for decades without losing its shine.
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Tile: Tile itself is durable, but the grout lines are its weak point. Over time, grout is prone to cracking, crumbling, and discoloration. Without sealing and regular upkeep, moisture can penetrate behind the tile, leading to problems like water damage and mold growth.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Nobody wants to spend hours scrubbing the shower every week.
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Onyx: A big advantage of Onyx shower walls is the low maintenance. Since the surface is non-porous, it resists soap scum and hard water stains. All you need is a mild household cleaner and a soft cloth to keep it looking like new.
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Tile: Tile cleaning can be more demanding. While the tiles themselves wipe down fairly easily, grout lines tend to collect soap scum, mildew, and dirt. Without sealing, grout becomes stained and may even harbor mold. This means more time cleaning and more money spent on grout repair or replacement down the road.
Installation and Project Timeline
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Onyx: Because Onyx panels are fabricated to fit the exact measurements of your shower, installation is quick and efficient. Many projects can be completed in just a couple of days, minimizing disruption to your home.
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Tile: Installing tile requires more steps: prepping the surface, cutting tiles, laying them out, grouting, and sealing. This process can take significantly longer, especially for custom designs. If you want a faster turnaround for your remodel, Onyx is often the better choice.
Cost Considerations
Budget is always part of the decision.
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Onyx: While Onyx panels may cost more upfront than some standard tile options, their long lifespan and minimal maintenance make them a smart investment. Many homeowners find that the reduced cleaning time and avoidance of grout repairs help balance the initial expense.
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Tile: Tile has a wide cost range—from affordable ceramic to high-end marble or designer mosaics. While it can be budget-friendly at the start, the long-term costs of cleaning, sealing, and replacing grout should be factored in when comparing Onyx vs tile shower walls.
FAQs: Onyx vs Tile Shower Walls
Are Onyx shower walls waterproof?
Yes. Onyx panels are non-porous and designed to resist water, making them an excellent choice for wet environments.
Can tile last as long as Onyx?
Tile can last for decades if properly maintained, but grout often needs repairs or replacement far sooner than the tiles themselves.
Do Onyx panels look like real stone?
Absolutely. Onyx can mimic the look of granite, marble, and other natural stones without the maintenance headaches.
Which is easier to repair if damaged?
Onyx panels rarely require repair, but if they do, they can often be fixed with a simple patch. Tile repairs may involve re-tiling sections or re-grouting, which can be more time-consuming.
Which option adds more value to my home?
Both Onyx and tile can increase home value when installed professionally. Onyx tends to appeal to homeowners looking for modern, low-maintenance upgrades, while tile appeals to those who value traditional or custom design.
Which Should You Choose?
If you want a modern, low-maintenance option that’s built to last, Onyx shower walls may be the right fit. If you prefer complete design flexibility and don’t mind extra upkeep, tile can be a beautiful choice.
At Bathtub Made New, we help Rochester-area homeowners transform their bathrooms with both Onyx installations and tile refinishing services. Whether you’re leaning toward Onyx vs tile shower walls, our team can walk you through the options and help you create a bathroom you’ll love for years to come.
Ready to Upgrade Your Shower?
Contact Bathtub Made New today for a free consultation. Let’s talk about your vision, compare Onyx and tile options, and find the best solution for your home and budget.