Marble Shower Bench: The Pros & Cons, Things to Consider

Contemplating the addition of a marble shower bench to your bathroom?

While undeniably elegant, this material warrants careful consideration.

This comprehensive guide weighs the pros and cons of installing a marble bench in the shower to help you make an informed decision.

Marble Shower Bench Pros

Durability

The durability of marble is one of the primary reasons why anyone would choose it over other materials.

The National Association of Home Builders has also reported it as being one of only a couple of materials capable of lasting up to 100 years and more.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective option for long-term use, marble is a great option.

Design and Versatility

Marble is a versatile material that can be used in art and design and for any form of décor.

Adding this stone to your bathroom will give your bathroom a touch of classic elegance.

Marble comes in different tones of color and pattern which you can combine to either get a busy ornamental look or give a minimalist touch to your bathroom design.

More importantly, marble will never go out of style, as it is a timeless material that many things have been made out of.

Easy to Clean

Stains can be easily removed from a marble shower bench if you use mild soap and hot water.

Using harsh products such as vinegar and lemon juice might not be the right call as they could seep into the stone and cause damage.

Marble Shower Bench Cons

Expensive

Compared to other shower bench materials, marble is one of the most expensive options.

However, the many benefits marble provides encourage people to go for marble regardless since marble will benefit them in the long run.

On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget, a marble shower bench may not be the best option for you.

Cold to Sit on

As a natural stone, marble could quickly get cold, especially in the shower.

It also cannot conduct electricity, so you can’t heat it.

Needs Extra Care 

Marble is porous, which makes it a high-maintenance material.

Staining agents such as wine, juice, vinegar, and oil can seep deep into it.

This could lead to a process known as oxidation, where minerals like pyrite in the marble begin to oxidize.

This causes it to rust from the inside.

To prevent this from happening, avoid using harsh chemicals on the stone or oil-based sealants.

Ensure the bench surface is slightly sloped downwards to allow easy drainage of water, so it doesn’t settle into the stone.

Proper installation and seal around the stone will increase the waterproof effects and prevent the stone from moisture infiltration.

Not Eco-Friendly

Marble is non-renewable and has an energy-intensive manufacturing process, which makes it unsustainable for the environment.

If you’re particular about how your choices affect your environment, you may consider sustainable options such as bamboo and teak.

Shower Leak Risk

Installing a built-in bench in an existing shower can compromise the shower’s waterproof barrier, which is not recommended.

Potential Slip Hazard

Marble can be slippery when wet, so it is important to consider the texture and safety of the bench to prevent accidents.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Marble Shower Bench

As you decide to opt for a marble shower bench, there are certain things you should consider, some of which are highlighted below.

How it Comes Together

Each marble slab is slightly different from the other, so you may want to consider how it all fits together.

While selecting slabs of stone, pay attention to where the veining will be located.

If you do this correctly, you can seal it properly to avoid any liquid getting into it.

You can also get artistic with it!

Veining Patterns

In addition to getting artistic with the veinings, you can carefully decorate it and pay more attention to the cuts.

You can cut your marble blocks in different ways to achieve different patterns and ensure it blends in with the slabs.

Finishing

You can finish your marble shower bench in four distinct ways, including honed, polished, tumbled, or brushed finishes.

You can also have a leather or river-wash finish.

Polished is the most popular, as it gives it a glossy and honed look that adds to the bathroom’s aesthetics.

To prolong material’s life, apply a penetrating sealant in the finishing process to protect it from absorbing acid or harsh liquids.

Marble vs. Granite Shower Bench

Granite has characteristics similar to marble, so choosing between the two might seem tricky.

Despite their similarities, these two still have some distinctive features.

For example, granite is more suitable for use in the kitchen as it is resistant to heat damage and scratches.

On the other hand, marble is more suitable in the bathroom, especially since its elegant look gives your bathroom an upscale feel.

Although the stain-resisting granite properties are commendable compared to marble, both must be adequately sealed for maximum effects.

Conclusion

Your personal taste influences your shower bench choice the most.

But it’s also essential to look at other parameters, such as durability and cost-effectiveness.

Adding a marble shower bench in your bathroom might be all you need, as the benefits it provides can be hard to beat.