Why Shower Tile Matters More Than You Think
Sure, tile looks good—but it’s also the MVP when it comes to performance. The right tile handles moisture, stands up to wear, and makes your shower easy to clean. The wrong tile? Let’s just say you’ll be fighting mold and regrets by next Derby Day. Whether you’re deep into a full bathroom renovation in Lexington or just scoping out a shower remodel, here are some of the best tile materials and styles trending in Central Kentucky homes.
Porcelain Tile: Durable, Stylish, and Practically Unstoppable
Porcelain is the reigning champ of shower tiles—and for good reason. It’s dense, water-resistant, and available in a wild range of styles that mimic everything from marble to wood. If you want a high-end look without the high-end maintenance, porcelain delivers.
- Style Tip: Large-format porcelain tiles with a matte finish are trending hard right now, especially in soft earthy tones like warm gray or sandy beige.
- Bonus: fewer grout lines = less scrubbing.
- Maintenance Level: Low. Just a gentle cleaner and occasional resealing of grout.
Ceramic Tile: Classic Choice, Budget-Friendly Charm
Ceramic is porcelain’s calmer cousin—it’s a little softer, a little more affordable, and still great. It’s especially great for accent walls or shower surrounds where you're not standing on it daily.
- Style Tip: Lexington homeowners love classic subway tile, but you can give it a twist by stacking it vertically or using a colored grout.
- Want that boutique hotel vibe? Try a soft sage green or navy blue ceramic with a contrasting grout.
- Maintenance Level: Moderate. Clean regularly and check grout for wear over time.
Glass Tile: Sleek, Light-Reflecting, and Luxurious
If you want your shower to feel open and bright (hello, summer sunshine), glass tile is your go-to. It reflects light beautifully and can make smaller bathrooms look more spacious—a real plus if you’re not expanding square footage but still aiming for a better layout.
- Style Tip: Glass mosaic tiles as a feature strip or full accent wall bring a modern edge to your bathroom remodel.
- Maintenance Level: Higher. Water spots and soap scum show up easier, but it’s nothing a squeegee and a little vinegar can’t handle.
Natural Stone: Bold, Beautiful, But Buyer Beware
Yes, natural stone like marble or slate is gorgeous—but it’s also high-maintenance. While popular in luxury bathroom renovations in Lexington, it requires regular sealing and can be finicky with water exposure. Use with caution and a good installer (we know a few).
- Style Tip: Use natural stone as an accent or floor tile, and pair with a simpler wall tile to keep things balanced—and within budget.
- Maintenance Level: High. You’ll need to clean and seal it regularly to keep it looking pristine.
Local Style Preferences: What Lexington Homeowners Are Loving
Here in the Bluegrass, style trends favor a blend of traditional charm and fresh, modern touches.
That means:
- Neutral palettes with subtle texture (think: oatmeal, clay, or greige)
- Patterned accent tiles, especially with geometric or botanical prints
- Wood-look porcelain for spa-inspired warmth
- Farmhouse touches with black matte fixtures and classic white tile
- And during the summer, homeowners are especially inspired to bring a bit of the outdoors in—so we’re seeing a rise in earthy tones, soft greens, and nature-inspired textures. It’s like creating a backyard oasis, indoors.
Thinking about a bathroom upgrade? Let’s talk tile, trends, and what it’ll take to make your shower shine. Contact Right Angle Home Services because better living starts with better bathrooms.
