What is FlexStone Tub Surround Made Of? The Ultimate Guide

FlexStone tub surrounds have become an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking to upgrade their bathrooms with a stylish, durable and low maintenance alternative to tile or fiberglass surrounds. But what exactly is FlexStone made of?

In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll take an in-depth look at the composition of FlexStone, its key features and benefits, cost comparisons, care and cleaning recommendations, repair techniques and more. Whether you‘re considering installing FlexStone yourself or hiring a contractor, this guide will provide the insider details you need to make an informed decision.

An Overview of FlexStone Tub Surrounds

FlexStone is a patented solid surface material composed of a blend of natural stone, acrylic resins and reinforcing fiberglass. This unique formula results in a flexible, non-porous sheet material perfect for tub and shower surround applications.

Here are some of the key benefits FlexStone offers over traditional tile or fiberglass surrounds:

• Durability – Scratch, chip and crack resistant. Stands up to daily wear and tear.

• Stain Resistance – Non-porous surface resists mold, mildew and soap scum buildup.

• Low Maintenance – Easy to clean with mild detergents. No grout lines to deal with.

• Customizability – Available in a wide range of colors, styles and designs. Can be cut and shaped on site.

• Waterproof – Provides a complete moisture barrier. Prevents leaks.

• Easy Installation – Installs directly over existing walls. No demolition needed.

For homeowners wanting to upgrade their tub surround with a material that combines beauty, convenience and durability, FlexStone offers an appealing solution.

What is FlexStone Made Of? Composition and Materials

The key ingredients that make up FlexStone tub surrounds include:

• Natural Stone – Usually a crushed marble or quartz that provides density and rigidity.

• Acrylic Resins – Flexible bonding polymers that give FlexStone its signature flex and elasticity.

• Fiberglass Mesh – Added to the core for reinforcement and crack resistance.

• Polyurethane Foam – Provides insulation and waterproofing abilities.

• Pigments – Mixed in to achieve different color and style options.

This patented composite results in a durable, flexible and waterproof sheet material ranging from 1/8" to 1/2" in thickness. It can be fabricated on-site by cutting and bending sheets to fit the exact specifications of your tub surround area.

Advantages Over Tile, Fiberglass and Other Materials

FlexStone offers several clear advantages over other commonly used tub surround materials:

vs. Ceramic Tile

• No grout to discolor or collect mildew and grime
• Resists cracking and chipping better than tile
• Seamless appearance for a cleaner look
• Easier and faster installation

vs. Fiberglass Surrounds

• More durable and scratch-resistant surface
• Warmer to the touch than cold fiberglass
• Available in wider range of colors and patterns
• Easy to cut and fabricate on-site

vs. Acrylic Surrounds

• More rigid and durable than thin acrylic sheets
• Easier to clean without tiny scratches forming
• Customizable thickness for greater strength

vs. Cultured Marble Surrounds

• More stain and scratch resistant
• Seamless application avoids joints that can crack
• Maintains color better than yellowing cultured marble

So whether replacing an aging fiberglass surround or upgrading from scrubbed and dated tile, FlexStone offers superior durability, appearance and convenience.

Cost Comparison

FlexStone tends to cost more upfront than fiberglass or acrylic surrounds, but less than a complete tile surround installation. Here are some typical price ranges:

• Tile Surrounds – $2,500 to $5,000, including demolition of old surround, new backerboard, tile, grout and labor.

• Fiberglass Surrounds – $500 to $1,500 just for materials, not including installation costs.

• Acrylic Surrounds – $1,000 to $2,000 for custom-fit sheets and professional installation.

• FlexStone Surrounds – $1,500 to $3,000 for materials and professional installation.

So FlexStone falls somewhere in the middle price-wise, but offers greater durability, customization and convenience compared to other options. The investment in FlexStone can also help save on maintenance costs and extend the service life of your tub surround.

Installation Tips and Process

One of the best features of FlexStone is how easily it can be installed directly over existing surfaces. Here is an overview of the installation process:

• Old surround is removed and wall surface prepared.

• Solid backing like cement board can be added if existing wall is uneven.

• FlexStone sheets are cut to size and fitted to contours of tub surround.

• Waterproof adhesive is applied to the back of the sheets.

• Sheets are pressed firmly into place and smoothed.

• Joints between sheets can be bonded for a seamless finish.

• Corners are finished and edges trimmed for a clean appearance.

• Final caulking, grouting and sealing completes the installation.

FlexStone surrounds can be installed by skilled DIYers, but professional installation is recommended to ensure proper bonding, seamless seams and a watertight surface.

Caring for and Cleaning FlexStone Surrounds

Once installed, caring for FlexStone is simple. Here are some tips:

• Clean regularly with a gentle liquid nonabrasive cleaner or dishwashing soap and warm water using a soft cloth or sponge.

• Avoid harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners and scrubbing pads which can damage the finish.

• Use a squeegee after showering to prevent mineral deposits and soap scum buildup.

• For more stubborn stains, apply some baking soda and vinegar paste and let sit before scrubbing and rinsing.

• Re-caulk joints annually to prevent moisture intrusion behind surround.

• Avoid hitting surround with sharp objects to prevent chips and scratches.

With proper care and cleaning, FlexStone surrounds will maintain their flawless finish for many years.

Repairing Damage to FlexStone

While FlexStone resists scratches, cracks and chips better than tile or fiberglass, damage can still occur. Here are some repair options:

For minor chips and scratches – Buff with an extra fine grit sandpaper followed by a polishing compound to blend damaged areas.

For cracks – Use a specialty FlexStone repair kit with color-matched epoxy to fill cracks for an invisible repair.

For holes or large damaged areas – Cut away damaged section and bond in a replacement piece of FlexStone, then re-caulk seams.

For severe damage – Hire a professional FlexStone fabricator to remove and replace entire damaged sections.

With some basic repairs, most damage can be fixed and blend right in. But avoiding hits from sharp objects can help prevent damage.

Expected Lifespan and Durability

With proper installation, care and maintenance, FlexStone surrounds are designed to last 10-15 years or longer. Heavy use in a commercial setting may warrant replacement sooner than a residential application.

Key factors affecting longevity include:

• Quality of original installation and sealing of seams.

• Frequency and type of cleaning and upkeep routine.

• Avoiding use of harsh chemicals or abrasives.

• Preventing damage from impacts or objects hitting the surface.

• Proper sealing and caulking maintenance.

• Speed of repairs if chips, cracks or staining occurs.

FlexStone‘s non-porous, seamless finish resists water, scratches and staining better than tile, fiberglass or acrylic surrounds when properly maintained.

Using FlexStone on Shower Walls and Ceilings

While most commonly used for tub surrounds, FlexStone can also be installed on shower walls and ceilings. The same benefits apply – waterproofing, durability, and ease of cleaning.

For shower ceilings, FlexStone eliminates the risk of leaks from cracked grout or tile. It installs right over existing surfaces and materials.

On shower walls, FlexStone can create a seamless appearance without problematic grout that tends to discolor. Just take care to properly slope sheets on walls to promote proper drainage.

FlexStone allows you to extend the waterproof surface out beyond the shower for a unified, streamlined look in the entire bathroom surrounding area.

Pros and Cons of FlexStone vs. Other Options

FlexStone Advantages

• More durable, scratch resistant than fiberglass or acrylic
• Seamless, no grout lines like tile
• Customizable to any size or layout
• Easy cleaning without porous grout
• Prevents leaks and water damage

Potential Drawbacks

• Higher upfront cost than fiberglass or acrylic
• Professional installation recommended
• Impacts can chip surface and need repair
• Not heat resistant like natural stone tile
• Limited bold color options available

Innovations in FlexStone Products

Since its invention in the early 2000s, there have been several innovations in FlexStone tub surrounds:

• Wider range of colors and imitation stone patterns

• Built-in anti-microbial properties for added resistance to mold and mildew

• Variations in thickness from 1/8" sheets for walls, up to 1/2” for tub decks

• Finishes like matte and gloss to mimic tile or natural stone appearances

• Improved repair kits for seamless chip and crack fixes

• Hybrid formulas combining FlexStone with natural stone particles for enhanced aesthetics

• Use of recycled materials like mirror or glass chips for eco-friendly products

• Lighter and more flexible sheets for easier shaping and installation

FlexStone continues to evolve as a tub and shower surround material, with new innovations improving aesthetics, performance and sustainability.

Conclusion

From its durable and waterproof qualities to its stain-resistant low-maintenance finish, FlexStone provides an excellent alternative to traditional tub and shower surround materials. Understanding FlexStone‘s unique blend of natural stone and acrylic resin helps homeowners appreciate the advantages it offers.

While pricing is higher than basic fiberglass surrounds, the longevity, customization and ease of maintenance make it a sound long-term investment that can increase the enjoyment and value of your bathroom. With proper installation and care, FlexStone surrounds are designed to provide lasting beauty and stand up to the demands of any family‘s lifestyle.