Bathrooms, vital spaces in homes, often feature shower walls constructed from different materials. Acrylic, a common choice for these installations, possesses unique properties influencing its durability and aesthetics. Vikrell, a material developed by Kohler Co., also plays a large role in bathroom remodeling. A detailed comparison of vikrell vs acrylic reveals the nuances differentiating these two options in terms of cost, installation, and longevity, empowering consumers to make informed decisions.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Difference Between , from the video titled Difference Between Vikrell and Acrylic | Vikrell vs. Acrylic: Battle of the Bathrooms .
Vikrell vs. Acrylic: Understanding the Key Differences
This article aims to provide a clear comparison between Vikrell and acrylic, two common materials used in bathroom fixtures like bathtubs, showers, and surrounds. Understanding their differences is crucial when making informed decisions for your bathroom renovation or new construction.
What are Vikrell and Acrylic?
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Vikrell: Vikrell is a proprietary material manufactured by Kohler. It’s a blend of fiberglass reinforced polyester. This mixture is heated and molded into the desired shape. It’s known for its durability and relatively low cost.
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Acrylic: Acrylic is a synthetic plastic polymer derived from acrylic acid. In bathroom fixtures, it’s usually reinforced with fiberglass for added strength. Acrylic sheets are heated and vacuum-formed over a mold.
Key Differences Between Vikrell and Acrylic
Understanding the specific differences will help determine which material is best suited for your needs.
Durability and Longevity
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Vikrell: Is notably strong and resistant to cracking and chipping. The solid nature of the material contributes to its longevity, even with regular use.
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Acrylic: While durable, acrylic is more susceptible to scratches than Vikrell. The fiberglass reinforcement underneath improves its strength, but impact resistance is generally lower compared to solid Vikrell. However, minor scratches can often be buffed out.
Cost Comparison
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Vikrell: Generally, Vikrell fixtures are more affordable than acrylic options. This makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious homeowners or large-scale projects.
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Acrylic: Due to the manufacturing process and often higher-quality finish, acrylic fixtures tend to have a higher price point.
Appearance and Aesthetics
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Vikrell: Vikrell often has a more utilitarian appearance. Color choices may be more limited compared to acrylic, and the surface finish might not be as glossy.
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Acrylic: Offers a smoother, glossier finish with a wider range of colors and design options. This allows for greater aesthetic flexibility in bathroom design.
Installation Considerations
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Vikrell: Often designed for easy installation, with interlocking panels for shower surrounds and simpler bathtub designs. This can reduce labor costs during installation.
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Acrylic: Installation can be slightly more complex, particularly with larger or custom-designed fixtures. However, experienced installers can handle acrylic installations effectively.
Repair and Maintenance
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Vikrell: Minor scratches and blemishes are difficult to repair seamlessly. The solid material can be challenging to work with for repairs. Cleaning is straightforward with common household cleaners.
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Acrylic: Scratches can often be buffed out with specialized acrylic polishing compounds. More significant damage may require professional repair. Cleaning requires non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratching the surface.
Heat Retention
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Vikrell: Vikrell tends to lose heat more quickly than acrylic. This means bathwater will cool down faster in a Vikrell bathtub.
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Acrylic: Offers better heat retention, allowing bathwater to stay warmer for a longer period. This is a desirable feature for those who enjoy long soaks.
Head-to-Head Comparison Table
The following table summarizes the key differences discussed above:
| Feature | Vikrell | Acrylic |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Highly resistant to cracks and chips | More prone to scratches, good impact resistance |
| Cost | Generally more affordable | Generally more expensive |
| Appearance | Utilitarian, limited color choices | Glossy finish, wider color options |
| Installation | Often easier | Can be more complex |
| Repair | Difficult to repair seamlessly | Scratches can often be buffed out |
| Heat Retention | Lower | Higher |
| Cleaning | Easy with common household cleaners | Requires non-abrasive cleaners |
Ideal Use Cases
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Vikrell: Ideal for budget-conscious projects, high-traffic bathrooms, or rental properties where durability is paramount.
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Acrylic: Well-suited for bathrooms where aesthetics and heat retention are important considerations, and where a higher budget is available.
FAQs: Vikrell vs Acrylic Shower Enclosures
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand the key differences between Vikrell and acrylic shower enclosures and make the best choice for your bathroom.
What exactly is Vikrell?
Vikrell is a composite material made by Kohler. It’s primarily fiberglass reinforced with polyester resin. Think of it as a solid surface material specifically designed for bathrooms, known for its durability. This contrasts with acrylic, which is a type of plastic.
Is Vikrell always better than acrylic for showers?
Not necessarily. While Vikrell is generally tougher and more resistant to cracking, acrylic can offer more design flexibility and sometimes a smoother finish. The best material for you depends on your priorities: durability versus aesthetics and budget. Consider the pros and cons of both vikrell vs acrylic.
How does the cost of Vikrell compare to acrylic showers?
Generally, Vikrell shower enclosures tend to be slightly more expensive than comparable acrylic enclosures. However, pricing can vary depending on the brand, size, and features. Always get quotes for both vikrell vs acrylic options to compare in your specific area.
Which is easier to repair, Vikrell or acrylic?
Vikrell is often considered easier to repair cosmetically than acrylic if it gets scratched or chipped. Minor imperfections can often be buffed out or filled in. Acrylic repairs can be more noticeable, potentially requiring professional attention. This repair advantage is a strong factor in the vikrell vs acrylic debate.
So, next time you’re thinking about upgrading your bathroom, remember the showdown of vikrell vs acrylic! Hopefully, you’re now armed with the knowledge to choose what’s best for *your* space. Happy remodeling!