Natural Stone - Is It Good For Showers?

Why Marble & Natural Stone Works for Showers - When Done Right.

We understand the concerns that come when potentially choosing a natural stone for your shower, especially when it is for your Primary bathroom that is used every day, if not multiple times a day. Your Primary shower sometimes sees more water than the roof of your home - it is essentially constantly wet/damp. There are a few factors to consider when choosing the right material to tile your shower in, but there is no reason to write off marble or natural stone as long as you know how to do it correctly.

Marble and other natural stones are truly the only REAL timeless product. Nothing else will stand the test of time like natural stone. It is Mother Nature's artwork, and every piece is unique like a fingerprint - there will never be another one like it. It is beautiful and luxurious and requires a little more care than porcelain look-a-like. If you're someone who appreciates the real thing, here's what you need to know about how to make marble (and other natural stone) work in your shower for the long haul.

The Non-Negotiables: What Natural Stone Needs to Succeed.

Natural stone is porous by nature, which means it can absorb water and become susceptible to staining, etching, and other damage. But with the right system and maintenance, you’ll be set up for success.

Here’s what we recommend:

✅ Proper Sealing

All natural stone in a wet area must be sealed—ideally by a professional. We offer a sealing service that not only applies premium-grade sealers but also comes with a warranty. The initial sealant forms the first line of defense against water, soap scum, and oils. Our professional sealers can even seal your glass shower doors so that soap scum doesn't build up on the surface! Convenience at its finest.

🔁 Regular Maintenance & Resealing

How often your shower needs to be resealed depends on how often it's used. A guest bath that sees occasional use might only need resealing every few years, while a daily-use master shower may benefit from annual upkeep. Cleaning should also be done regularly - we recommend mild soap like Dawn dish detergent mixed with water. Avoid harsh cleaners, bleach, or vinegar-based products that can erode the stone.

💨 Good Ventilation

A dry shower is a happy shower. Make sure the space is well-ventilated with a properly sized exhaust fan that’s used during and after showers to reduce lingering humidity. This helps prevent mold and mildew, and protects the longevity of the stone. Make sure to leave the door open for a little time after showers are taken to make sure all of that humid air isn't trapped inside. Anything helps!

♨️ Heated Shower Floors

One of our favorite upgrades for natural stone showers is a heated floor. Not only is it a comfort luxury, but it also speeds up drying time, which helps prevent water absorption and discoloration over time.

Behind the Scenes: Waterproofing Matters

Another make-or-break factor with natural stone is what lies beneath it.

We always recommend using a premium waterproofing system or similar. These systems create a fully waterproof barrier behind your tile, so even if moisture makes its way through the stone or the grout, it won’t damage the structure behind it.

This is especially important with natural stone, as its porosity means more potential for water transmission. Ask your installer what method they plan to use and what type of warranty they offer. Do your due diligence and your own research as this is the most important factor of your shower!

Real Stone, Real Luxury

Natural stone isn’t for everyone. But if you love the veining, depth, and uniqueness of real marble or limestone, it’s worth the extra care. With the right materials, installation, and maintenance plan, your stone shower can remain stunning and functional for years to come.

If you're considering a stone shower or want to make sure your existing one is protected, we offer professional sealing services with the added peace of mind of a warranty. Reach out to schedule an appointment or learn more.

Yes, You Can Use Marble in a Shower—Here’s How:

✔ Must be sealed and re-sealed regularly based on use

✔ Clean with mild soap and water (no harsh chemicals!)

✔ Ensure proper waterproofing behind the tile

✔ Ventilate well to dry the shower quickly

✔ Consider heated floors for luxury and practicality

✔ Let us help with professional sealing + warranty