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Choosing between honed or polished marble in shower isn’t just about looks; it can shape both the style and performance of a bathroom, as each finish has its own style, slip resistance, and care requirements, which all play a role in how well your space handles daily moisture.
In this guide, we’ll break down the main differences between honed and polished marble, weigh the pros and cons of using marble in wet areas, and help you pick the best finish for your shower floors and walls.
The Difference Between Honed and Polished Marble
Choosing between honed or polished marble in shower starts with understanding the differences and how each finish performs in wet areas:
| Feature | Honed Marble | Polished Marble |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Look | Satin-like, soft, natural appearance | Glossy, reflective, luxurious finish |
| Texture | Smooth but not shiny | Smooth and highly shiny |
| Porosity | More porous; needs regular sealing | Less porous due to polishing |
| Slip Resistance | Less slippery; safer for shower floors | Slippery when wet, especially on floors |
| Durability Appearance | Hides scratches and etching better | Shows scratches, etching, and water spots more clearly |
In short, the finish you choose will directly affect safety, maintenance, and the overall look of your shower, which makes choosing between honed or polished marble in shower essential before you decide.
Pros and Cons of Using Marble in the Shower
Looking at the pros and cons of marble shower, it’s clear that this natural stone brings stunning beauty along with a few practical considerations
1. Pros of Using Marble in the Shower
1. Elegant and Timeless: Marble adds a sophisticated, luxurious look to any bathroom.
2. Durable and Heat-Resistant: Ideal for showers and steam-filled spaces.
3. Unique Patterns: Each slab is natural and unique.
4. Increased Home Value: A marble shower can boost property appeal.
2. Cons of Using Marble in the Shower
1. Regular Maintenance Needed: Honed marble is more porous, so it requires frequent sealing.
2. Slippery Surfaces: Polished marble floors can increase the risk of slipping.
3. Sensitive to Acids: Harsh cleaners or soap can etch the surface, especially polished finishes.
Is Honed Marble Good for Shower Floors and Walls?
Yes, honed marble is a great option for shower floors and can also look beautiful on shower walls:
Honed Marble for Shower Floors:
Honed marble is one of the safest choices. Its matte, slightly textured surface gives you better grip, which is ideal in wet areas. It also does a good job of hiding small scratches, water spots, and everyday wear, making it a practical finish for a busy shower.
Honed Marble for Shower Walls:
Honed marble also works well on walls, especially if you like a soft, natural, understated look. Just keep in mind that it doesn’t reflect light the way polished marble does. And because it’s a bit more porous, it may need a little extra care to prevent moisture or soap buildup.
Is Polished Marble Suitable for Shower Use?
Polished marble is ideal for shower walls and vertical surfaces, as its smooth, shiny finish highlights the stone’s natural veining and patterns, giving your bathroom a bright, elegant, and luxurious feel:
Polished Marble Performance on Floors:
While honed or polished marble for bathroom floor can be visually stunning, polished marble in particular can be slippery when wet. Using it on floors requires careful attention to safety, especially in homes with children, elderly users, or high foot traffic.
Polished Marble Use on Walls:
Polished marble excels on shower walls because the smooth, glossy surface is easy to clean and maintain. It highlights the natural patterns and veining of the stone, adding elegance and a sense of spaciousness to the shower area.
Honed or Polished Marble in the Shower (Which Is Better?)
Choosing the Right Finish for Floors
If you're deciding between honed or polished marble in shower floor, honed is almost always the better choice. Its matte, slip-resistant surface helps prevent common marble shower floor problems, such as slipping and visible water marks.
Honed marble also hides scratches and daily wear better than polished marble, making it a safer and more practical choice for everyday use.
Choosing the Right Finish for Walls
For shower walls, polished marble is considered the ideal choice, as it really shines, and its glossy finish reflects light, highlights the stone’s natural veining, and instantly makes the space feel more luxurious. It’s also easy to clean, which is always a bonus in a wet area like the shower.
Why Many People Use Both
Many homeowners choose a combination approach (honed marble for floors and polished marble for walls) for beauty. This provides the perfect balance between safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, while maximizing the benefits of both finishes in the shower.
Why Choose Stone Empire Egypt for Your Marble Shower
Your marble shower deserves materials you can trust, and that’s where Stone Empire Egypt comes in. We offer top-quality marble in both honed and polished finishes, giving you the freedom to create a shower that’s stylish, safe, and truly personal.
Our range includes beautiful colors and natural patterns, all carefully sourced and finished to high standards. And you’re never left on your own, as our specialists work closely with you to choose the right finish, thickness, and design to match what you need.
Get a Consultant from Stone Empire Egypt!
Conclusion
Deciding between honed or polished marble in shower depends on what you want most (safety or shine). If you care about safety, go with honed for the floor. If you love a shiny, upscale look, polished is perfect for the walls. And honestly, a mix of both usually looks stunning and works perfectly.
