Shower ceilings usually don’t make it on the shortlist of priorities when you’re renovating a bathroom. With so many different accents that draw focus from flooring to fixtures, it makes sense that most people wouldn’t give the ceiling a second thought. In the end though, it’d be a lost opportunity to ignore the power of this blank canvas. 

A pattern, color, or texture can add character to your bathroom ceiling that once seen, can’t go unnoticed. With no shortage of materials and designs to choose from, there’s something to match every personal aesthetic. If you’re still not convinced, the shower ceiling ideas below are likely to change your mind! Take a look and see how a simple ceiling change can transform your shower into something truly special.

1. Wood Panels

It’s no secret that the modern farmhouse style has taken over the interior design world in recent years. With that, it’s brought back wood paneling throughout homes, ceilings being no exception. Offering a natural and warm feel, wood is one of the best shower ceiling ideas for a rustic style. The fact that you can choose from a plethora of wood species also makes way for color and texture choices; Along with a range of pricing to fit different project budgets. 

It’s important to remember that natural wood is susceptible to certain risks, water damage being one of them. Rot and warping are key damages to look out for. Proper sealing of materials will mitigate long term damage but upkeep is something to consider. Damaged pieces of natural wood are also harder to repair, unlike other options that allow you to trade out a piece that will have the exact same color and texture. 

2. Stone

Stone shower ceilings are where beauty and durability collide! Stone comes in plenty of colors and textures, each with an ease of cleaning that’s a major draw to many. Coming in larger sheets and cuts, the amount of grouting is generally much less than that of a tile job. If all of that wasn’t enough, the increase in home value puts stone over the top. Due to its value alone, a stone shower ceiling stands to hike up that resale price. 

Unfortunately for some, this level of durability comes at a cost. Stone isn’t cheap and while it does come in different grades of cost, it’s not in everyone’s price range. Even though its daily maintenance is easy, the same can’t be said for overall maintenance. Depending upon your stone selection, you’ll have to be on top of resealing it as well. 

3. Styrofoam

A cheaper alternative on the rise, styrofoam shower ceilings (tiles in specific) have some surprisingly enticing qualities. They act as a great insulator which is particularly helpful in the hottest and coldest months. Not only do they look authentic, they come in any style you could imagine, colors too. They’re also very easy to replace should one become damaged. Even though it’s not made to be waterproof, you can waterproof it via a sealant or resin for long lasting protection.

The number one issue you’ll find with this material is its fragility. Styrofoam isn’t known to be durable but this may not be as much of a concern as the shower ceiling isn’t a surface that’s physically used. It does also tend to stain more easily than other materials available. Again, it might not be as much of a concern since it’s on the ceiling but it’s a consideration nonetheless. 

4. Paint

If you’re on a tight budget but still looking for that wow factor for your shower ceiling, paint is the best choice for you. Bold color selections like that above create an unmatched contrast for a designer look at a price anyone can afford. Paint doesn’t just limit you to color though; You can also have patterns via stencils that produce the illusion of other materials. 

Paint is also a low maintenance option that’s extremely easy to touch up when need be. Your main concern with paint is going to be building up enough of a barrier to keep moisture out. It never hurts to start with a primer as it stops the peeling process and helps the paint to bond to the surface. A higher sheen will also prevent water intrusion, though it may be a shinier finish than many prefer. 

5. Beams

Shower ceiling beams are an excellent addition to your bathroom’s architecture, often used to put a spotlight on high ceilings; They can also make a smaller room appear larger. You’re not bound by style or price with beam ceiling accents either! They come in different materials like wood, metal, faux wood and more, offering limitless style options. It’s because of this that the price ranges, sometimes at a lower cost than many think.

Depending on the material chosen, you can run into some issues. As with wood panels, genuine wood beams can become damaged if they’re not sealed and maintained correctly. For wood and metal beams, weight is also a concern, especially as it relates to installation. Since these beams are usually decorative, they offer little to no support to the home’s structure; This makes that extra weight something to consider. 

6. Tile

Lately, it’s become far more common to see tile used on the shower ceiling. It makes sense when the rest of the shower is tile too, creating a cohesive end result like the one pictured above. Tile does a great job at repelling moisture and its overall durability is one of its most desirable characteristics. It’s available in many colors and is often used to construct a custom appearance with patterns like herringbone, chevron, and the like.

The main complaint with tile is keeping the grout clean. Depending on the design, you could end up with lots of grout lines that are known to harbor mildew. Also, while tile isn’t the most expensive option on this list, it’s also not the cheapest. Tiling materials add up quickly when you’re covering the entire shower top to bottom. It can also be hard to install tile at the angle required of a shower ceiling project. 

7. Metal

Naturally impervious to water intrusion and mold, the use of metal for shower ceilings is an extremely functional option. They’re also fire and warp resistant, needing very little maintenance, perfect for the busy homeowner. You can use corrugated metal sheets as pictured above or even decorative metal ceiling tiles that come in different patterns and types like tin, copper and more. From rustic to modern, metal can fit the bill!

You’d be hard pressed to find many cons when it comes to metal shower ceilings. There are a few to note though. First, while they’re very durable, if you happen to dent certain types of metals it may not be an easy replacement; Especially for materials used in sheet form like the picture seen above. Metal can also be a pricey choice depending on which variety you like. 

8. Skylight

Hands down the most luxurious of shower ceiling ideas, a shower skylight ceiling. There’s nothing quite like taking in the blue sky and sunlight directly from above in your very own shower. Not to mention, it takes care of the ventilation issue many bathrooms have. A functional shower skylight allows its user to open the hatch before, during or after; Properly ventilating the space and mitigating excess moisture causing damage. 

All good things have their drawbacks though, roof leaks being a main one for shower skylights. With so many gaps and crevices in the mechanism itself, it’s easy to see why. Heat loss in the cooler months can also make the shower space too brisk. Plastic encasements may become more brittle over time as well, also taking on more sun damage than that of a metal framed one.  

Conclusion

While unique shower ceiling ideas might not be the first thing you think of when you remodel, it’d be an amazing focal point to polish off any bathroom. From more simple shower ceiling ideas like a bold color to a detailed install like tile, there’s a range of options each with their own eye-catching attributes. 

Ready to add some distinct character to your shower ceiling? We’re ready to assist! Get a FREE shower ceiling consultation in the Los Angeles area!

Call Today 1800-922-4613 for a free in-home estimate.

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*Serving Los Angeles county and surrounding areas*

FAQ

For shower ceiling ideas, what about using peel and stick materials?

Peel and stick materials have become more common lately due to their ease of use and affordability. It’s easy to imagine how they’d hold up on other surfaces but what about shower ceilings? Believe it or not, they’re reported to do just fine! Backed with a sticky adhesion that meshes with many surfaces, this material does need time to cure. 

Many recommend allowing a 24 to 48 hour cure time before using the shower; This keeps any moisture from setting in, allowing for a rock solid grip. Peel and stick materials also come in endless textures, colors, and styles. Whatever your style, peel and stick materials make the shortlist of bathroom ceiling ideas where you’re sure to find a fit. 

If the material used needs painting, what paint is best?

Whether you go for a bold color or an unfinished material in need of paint, it’s important to know not all paints are created equal. For starters, you’ll want to use a latex based paint on your shower ceiling. Its durable and water-resistant properties will help prevent mold and mildew growth. 

It’s also best to use a paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish. Some may argue that these finishes appear too shiny, preferring an eggshell finish instead. Even so, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the shinier finishes are easier to clean and ward off moisture. 

Is every material listed for shower ceiling ideas made waterproof?

They’re all waterproof in their own respect. Certain materials like metal and glass are naturally waterproof as they’re non-porous materials. While other materials like PVC and fiberglass based tiles, paneling, and the like aren’t innately waterproof, they’re made to be; Using waterproof components in the manufacturing process, they become a reliable, waterproof material for shower ceiling use. 

Despite the fact that all of these come with waterproof properties, there’s a vital component that cannot go forgotten and that’s ventilation. No matter how waterproof your materials are, it won’t matter without proper ventilation. Key components to this include practices as simple as utilizing an exhaust fan or keeping the bathroom door open. 

Does a ceiling shower head affect which shower ceiling materials can be used?

Deciding on a ceiling shower head doesn’t necessarily knock out certain shower ceiling materials in an existing shower, but it’s likely to make certain choices harder to install. For instance, an install coupled with a bold paint is simple. Any potential damages made to existing pigment can be fixed with the stroke of a brush; Or paint can easily be applied around the shower head flange after installation if it’s a new project.  

It’s not so easy with materials like tile though. When you cut the proper holes for existing tile you run the risk of cracking surrounding tiles. With a new project, several small, precise cuts will need to be made for a perfect fit. Plumbing is also a serious consideration when choosing a ceiling shower head. It’s likely piping will have to be moved or replaced in order to achieve the ceiling shower head look.

In short, a ceiling shower head doesn’t prevent certain shower ceiling materials from being used, but some materials will be far easier than others to work with.