What to Put Above Your Shower Surround: A Guide That Won’t Leave You Soaked in Regret
Let’s be real—shower surrounds get all the glory. We obsess over tile patterns, grout colors, and whether to go frameless or not. But what about that awkward space above the surround? You know, the spot where your eye naturally drifts when you’re zoning out under the hot water? It’s like the forgotten child of bathroom design. But hey, we’re here to fix that. At Verified Builders, Denver’s go-to crew for custom remodels and luxury home renovations, we’ve seen it all. Let’s talk about how to turn that blank canvas into a showstopper (without needing a second mortgage).
Contents
- 1 Option 1: Tile All the Way Up (Because Why Not?)
- 2 Option 2: Paint—The Underdog of Bathroom Design
- 3 Option 3: Shiplap or Beadboard (For the Farmhouse Fanatics)
- 4 Option 4: Stone or Marble Accents (Go Big or Go Home)
- 5 The “What Were They Thinking?” Hall of Shame
- 6 Material Comparison Table: Because Adulting Requires Spreadsheets
- 7 “But What If I’m Doing a Whole House Remodeling Project?”
- 8 3 Questions Everyone Asks (But Is Too Embarrassed to Google)
- 9 Final Thoughts: Don’t Overthink It (But Also, Do)
Option 1: Tile All the Way Up (Because Why Not?)
If you’re already tiling the surround, why stop halfway? Extending tile to the ceiling creates a seamless, spa-like vibe. Plus, it’s practical—no more worrying about steam damaging drywall.
Pros:
- Waterproof AF: Tile laughs in the face of humidity.
- Design Continuity: No awkward transitions. Your bathroom will look like it actually has a plan.
- Resale Value: Buyers love a cohesive, low-maintenance space.
Cons:
- Cost: More tile = more labor. But IMO, it’s worth it for the “wow” factor.
- Visual Weight: If your bathroom is tiny, floor-to-ceiling tile might feel like a subway station.
Rhetorical question alert: Ever notice how high-end hotels never skimp on tile height? There’s a reason for that.
Option 2: Paint—The Underdog of Bathroom Design
Don’t underestimate a fresh coat of paint. With the right finish (think mold-resistant semi-gloss), it’s a budget-friendly way to add color or texture. Just avoid flat finishes unless you enjoy scrubbing mildew.
Verified Builders Pro Tip: Pair painted walls with a bold shower niche or shelving. It’s like accessorizing a little black dress—simple but striking.
Option 3: Shiplap or Beadboard (For the Farmhouse Fanatics)
Hey, we get it—Joanna Gaines made us all crave that rustic charm. Shiplap or beadboard above the shower adds warmth and works especially well in cottages or basement remodels where you’re aiming for cozy.
But Wait:
- Seal it properly. Water will find a way to ruin your day if you skip this step.
- Match it to other elements (vanity, trim) to avoid a “random Pinterest fail” look.
Option 4: Stone or Marble Accents (Go Big or Go Home)
Want to flex a little? Natural stone or marble slabs above the surround scream luxury home renovations. It’s a splurge, but paired with matte black fixtures, it’s chef’s kiss.
FYI: This is where hiring a bathroom renovation contractor pays off. Cutting and installing stone isn’t exactly a DIY project (unless you’ve got a diamond blade and a death wish).
The “What Were They Thinking?” Hall of Shame
Let’s commiserate over common mistakes we’ve seen in Denver homes:
- Wallpaper Above the Shower: Cute… until it peels like a sunburn.
- Unsealed Wood: Congrats, you’ve built a sauna for termites.
- Overcrowded Shelves: Nobody needs 17 shampoo bottles on display.
Material Comparison Table: Because Adulting Requires Spreadsheets
| Material | Cost | Durability | Style Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tile | $$ | High | Modern, Traditional |
| Paint | $ | Medium | Any |
| Shiplap | $$ | Medium | Farmhouse, Coastal |
| Stone/Marble | $$$$ | Very High | Luxury, Contemporary |
“But What If I’m Doing a Whole House Remodeling Project?”
Glad you asked! If you’re overhauling the entire bathroom (or tackling a home addition), coordinate the shower area with the rest of the space. For example:
- Use the same tile in the shower and on the floors.
- Echo paint colors in adjacent rooms.
- Let your general contractor handle the logistics (because juggling 12 subs is not a hobby).
At Verified Builders, we’ve mastered the art of whole house remodeling—no detail is too small, even that weird space above your shower.
3 Questions Everyone Asks (But Is Too Embarrassed to Google)
1. “Can I just… leave it as drywall?”
Sure, if you enjoy replacing soggy drywall every two years. Use cement board or green board instead, and seal it properly.
2. “What’s the cheapest option that doesn’t look cheap?”
Paint. Pair it with a sleek shower curtain and call it a day.
3. “How do I find a reliable remodeling company near me?”
Check reviews, ask for portfolios, and make sure they’re licensed. Subtle plug: Verified Builders has 200+ five-star reviews. Just saying.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Overthink It (But Also, Do)
At the end of the day, what you put above your shower surround should balance function, style, and your sanity. Whether you’re a DIY warrior or prefer leaving it to a bathroom remodeling pro (hi, that’s us), just avoid cutting corners.
And hey, if you’re in Denver and want a team that treats your home like it’s ours, give Verified Builders a shout. We’re equal parts basement remodel contractors, home addition wizards, and coffee enthusiasts. Let’s turn your “meh” shower into a “hell yeah” moment.
Rhetorical mic drop: Why settle for basic when you can have brilliant? 😉
