The 11 Best Bathroom Ceiling Materials To Buy In 2023

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Picking the best bathroom ceiling materials when having a bathroom renovation exercise can be overwhelming and tiresome, especially when you have a variety of different bathroom ceiling ideas.

You have to choose between an affordable bathroom ceiling material that's less durable and an expensive one that is more durable. Your shower ceiling ideas can not only impact the look and appeal of your bathroom but also determines future costs and expenses pertaining to bathroom maintenance. 

The market is flooded with numerous bathroom ceiling material options that all look like incredible options when choosing a ceiling plan for your bathroom.

However, without a keen eye and an in-depth understanding of bathroom ceilings, you may easily end up with low-quality bathroom ceiling material. You may also have all kinds of bathroom ceiling ideas, but without proper help and expert opinion, you may end up spending a whole lot of money to achieve a look that could have still done so otherwise at half the cost!

To avoid all that, you need to have a grasp of the common types of bathroom ceiling materials that exist, their qualities, and their price ranges. Once you have it down, you can hire a contractor to help make your shower ceiling ideas a reality.

If you are looking to breathe life into your bathroom ceiling ideas, then you have come to the right place! Here we discuss the bathroom ceiling ideas and evaluate the best bathroom ceiling materials you can choose in 2023!

Let's get right into it.

Factors Affecting the Selection of an Inexpensive Bathroom Ceiling Material

Before you settle for any of the best bathroom ceiling materials, there are always various factors that will affect your decision-making process as you set out to achieve your bathroom ceiling ideas.

Bathroom ceilings are a crucial part of the aesthetic, as well as the functioning of your home. Improper or weak bathroom ceilings can result in expensive repairs, and maintenance, and before you know it, you may have to rip them apart and install new ceilings altogether. 

Bathroom ceilings are tricky business, especially because they must sustain severe water damage and accumulation. They should also resist humidity and moisture damage. If not, this can create serious mold and mildew infestation that can spread through your bathroom ceilings, walls, and the rest of your house if you are not careful.

While you may have to say over most of these factors, some are just beyond your control. Different bathroom ceiling ideas require different materials and you will need to weigh a multitude of factors including materials, costs, longevity, durability, etc.

You should choose whether to continue with the purchase or give up on your shower ceiling ideas altogether. While you may have some wild and experimental bathroom ceiling ideas and visions, it is recommended to get in touch with a professional first to weigh your options and pick the one that checks all the boxes. 

Here are some of the factors that will likely affect your decision for purchasing one of the best bathroom ceiling materials for different bathroom ceiling ideas and aesthetics:

Cost of the Material

As obvious as it may seem, the cost is a key factor to consider when shopping for inexpensive bathroom ceiling material. Before you decide on specific bathroom ceiling ideas, we recommend weighing your options and considering the different types of shower ceiling ideas, shower ceiling panels, plastic or PVC moldings, waterproof bathroom ceiling panels, fiberglass bathroom ceilings, etc.

High-quality bathroom ceiling materials are indeed highly-priced, but you could still get cheaper options that meet your bathroom ceiling needs.

Some distributors are also selling bathroom ceiling material at higher prices even with low-quality features.

Once you know what you want, you should stick to your budget, provided you get all the features you wanted in a bathroom ceiling.

Strength of the Material

Strength and durability go hand-in-hand. The stronger the material is, the longer it will serve you in your bathroom ceiling.

The various ceiling materials that exist boast different strength abilities.

When choosing your new bathroom ceiling, you might want to weigh down on the strength of the material in making them before making the final decision.

Climate and Heat Effect

The climate is a crucial factor when shopping for bathroom ceilings.

If you stay in an area with high temperatures, for instance, you may want to avoid bathroom ceilings that crack or drop off due to high temperatures. Sure you may have some incredibly aesthetic bathroom ceiling ideas that include different materials. But if you live in high-humidity areas, you might want to choose a waterproof material that can withstand high moisture content.

Ask your salesperson for advice on the type of bathroom ceilings you should buy based on your local area's climatic conditions instead of simply following your gut to achieve your bathroom ceiling ideas.

Skills Required to Install the Entire Ceiling

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Different ceiling materials require different installation skills and expertise. Whatever your bathroom ceiling ideas may be, you will need a professional on board to help make them a reality.

While this may look like a petty factor to consider, it may deeply affect your overall cost in the long run. Bathroom ceilings can be tricky to install and without the correct professional knowledge and experience, you may inadvertently risk mold and mildew infestation.

Choose a piece that can be locally installed by the handypersons for a less costly bathroom ceiling installation.

If your bathroom ceilings need an expert to travel from far to come and install them, you may have to pay much more for installation alone.

Aesthetic Appeal to Your Bathroom Ceilings Design

This is probably the first thing you consider when shopping for the best bathroom ceiling materials. You’re more concerned about how the material’s aesthetic appeal will fit into your bathroom’s design. Of course, you may have an abundance of bathroom ceiling ideas, but you also have to be practical about the aesthetic decisions you make.

The material you choose for your shower ceiling ideas must be glowing and attractive enough to bring life to your bathroom design.

Remember, the shower ceiling ideas that look good to you might be a total turn-off to someone else. You should, therefore, not let your salesperson pick a design for you, especially when it comes to shower ceiling ideas.

Go with the shower ceiling ideas that are most appealing to you and will bring new life to your bathroom’s design.

Bathroom Ceiling Material Cost Strength Climate and Heat Effect Installation Skills Required Aesthetic Appeal
Acrylic Sheets 3/5 2/5 3/5 3/5 3/5
Water-Resistant Fiberglass 2/5 4/5 4/5 3/5 2/5
Metal Ceiling Tiles 2/5 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5
Flat and Semi-Gloss Paint 5/5 1/5 2/5 2/5 2/5
Paneling 3/5 2/5 2/5 4/5 3/5
Glass and Glass False 2/5 2/5 3/5 3/5 4/5
Bathroom Ceiling          
Tiles 3/5 3/5 3/5 4/5 4/5
Drywall and Green Board 4/5 2/5 3/5 4/5 3/5
Wood Cladding 3/5 2/5 2/5 4/5 5/5
Properly Sealed Gypsum 3/5 2/5 3/5 3/5 2/5
Cement Board 3/5 4/5 4/5 4/5 2/5

The 10 Best Shower Ceiling Ideas

As you already know, the market today is full of different types of materials that you can use for remodeling your bathroom ceiling and experimenting with all kinds of bathroom ceiling ideas. 

Depending on the features you want for your shower ceiling ideas, you can always choose one of the best bathroom ceiling materials. As long as you have surveyed all the potential problems that may arise in the installation or use of certain ceilings, you can begin making your bathroom ceiling ideas a reality.

Here are the 10 best materials to consider for your modern bathroom ceiling ideas:

1.  Acrylic Sheets

Acrylic is a popular ceiling material for shower ceiling ideas that homeowners widely use for their bathroom renovation projects around the globe.

Acrylic sheets come in a wide variety of shades and designs. You can easily pick among the various sizes, shapes, colors, designs, and thicknesses when shopping for your shower ceiling ideas.

There are also transparent and opaque options for shower ceiling ideas to choose from depending on your bathroom’s design needs.

What’s more, acrylic sheets are waterproof. You can use them in areas with high moisture content and have little to worry about water damage just like we tried to do.

To achieve a striking look, many professional handypersons will suggest that you install LED lights and support your panels with L-shaped aluminum strips. These L-shaped aluminum strips will cover your corners so well that to give you the best display.

You can also go for lightweight acrylic materials for your shower ceiling ideas, so you can have an easier time removing them regularly for maintenance.

2.  Water-Resistant Fiberglass

Don’t get it all twisted; fiberglass is not in itself waterproof. However, when we tried to apply resin and allow the fiberglass to cure, it becomes fully waterproof, thus becoming a terrific choice for your shower ceiling ideas.

Some ceiling manufacturers will sell already cured fiberglass ceiling materials to make your work easier. So you can choose to buy the already cured pieces to save on time and cost.

Most American homes use fiberglass today, making it the most common ceiling option in America and many other places in the world.

Fiberglass is also an inexpensive option for achieving an excellent ceiling for your shower ceiling renovation project. You can also use it to cover your standing shower wall if you want to achieve a striking look for your shower and ceiling.

What’s more, you can buy pre-cut fiberglass materials that are easy to install to help you cut the cost of installing this bathroom ceiling material.

Fiberglass ceilings are an excellent long-term investment option as they offer protection from water damage in the long run.

3.  Metal Ceiling Tiles

If you’re looking for something out-of-the-box that comes ready to install, then the polished, refined, and classy metal ceiling tiles can be an excellent option to consider.

The tiles are made using waterproof materials to offer a quick solution to your shower ceiling renovation needs.

Metal ceiling tiles are also made of lightweight metal which makes them easier to install and remove during renovations.

Additionally, these metal tiles are much different from the wall and floor-ceiling tiles which are heavier and more technical to install.

Their smooth metallic finish makes it easier to wipe them down when cleaning. They are also resistant to stains making them one of the easiest ceiling options to keep clean.

Today, ceiling tiles exist in unique and intricate designs that you can choose from depending on your bathroom’s interior design specifications.

Metal ceiling tiles are mostly made using chrome, brass, tin, copper, galvanized iron, or aluminum. You can always pick the metal tiles that best fit your shower ceiling for the best results.

4.  Flat and Semi-Gloss Paint

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels

If you already have an existing bathroom ceiling, it might be costly and time-consuming to remove the entire ceiling for new material.

Instead of going through with all that hustle, you can always consider painting the existing ceiling material for the desired new look.

What’s more, painting is an easy exercise that you can handle on your own with the help of a few necessary tools.

However, you should be privy to the fact that painting your bathroom ceiling increases the chances of mold development. This is because water moisture from the bathtub area settles on the painted surface, creating a conducive environment for mold to grow.

However, excellent ventilation and bathroom windows can help you maneuver through this mold problem and keep your paint fresh.

The good thing about painting is that you can change your bathroom ceiling’s entire look by changing the color design yearly.

There are two common types of paint you can choose for your bathroom ceiling. They include:

  • Semi-Gloss Paint

This is an excellent water-resistant paint color if you’re looking for a shiner painting option that will bring out the glow of your bathroom’s interior.

While it may help resist moisture partially, keeping your ceiling away from mold to an extent, its glare is not something to boast about.

Worse, if you have imperfections on your wall, you may want to pass on this paint option as it exposes all the imperfections that exist on your ceiling or wall surfaces.

  • Flat Paint

We've tried and evaluated this and flat paint will perfectly hide your wall and ceiling’s imperfections while reducing glare to give your ceiling an admirable final look.

However, cleaning your ceiling after applying flat paint becomes a major challenge. The paint isn’t moisture resistant and will attract the growth of mold.

5.  Paneling: PVC and Aluminum Composite Panels

Paneling existed as the best shower ceiling option many years ago and is seemingly coming up again as an ideal choice for many homeowners.

It stands out as a perfect choice for hiding away the ugly and damaged ceiling as the installation involves attaching a framework first before fastening the panels. You can opt for waterproof bathroom ceiling panels to keep from water seeping through and damaging your walls.

  • PVC Shower Ceiling Panels

If your bathroom has condensation problems, PVC shower ceiling panels offer the best solution as they’re made up of waterproof components.

Shower ceiling panels act as a great moisture barrier and help to keep your ceiling dry and free from mold.

The panels are also light in weight, which makes it easy to install shower ceiling panels even when alone at home.

You can always choose these visually appealing shower ceiling panels when working on a budget and needing a quick solution for your ceiling.

  • Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP)

An aluminum composite shower ceiling panels are made up of two aluminum sheets sandwiching a core of thermoplastic polyethylene.

The two aluminum sheets press the core perfectly to make up almost perfectly flat, smooth, and lightweight shower ceiling panels.

It also offers moisture-resistant performances, which makes it an ideal choice for bathrooms with moisture problems.

Aluminum composite shower ceiling panels exist in marble, plain, and metal textures. You can always pick a texture that fits great with your bathroom’s design.

6.   Glass and Glass False Bathroom Ceiling

As you can rightly guess, glass offers an expensive option for covering your bathroom’s ceiling space.

It is a great choice if you’re using one of the low-height bathrooms that lack windows for proper ventilation and lighting. We've tried this out ourselves and using glass makes bathrooms to be visibly more spacious.

If the pure glass is too much for you, there are manufacturers who have false ceilings made of non-crystalline glass, which is a great insulator.

False ceiling glass also boosts the aesthetic appearance of your bathroom space and qualifies as an attractive bathroom ceiling material for modern bathrooms.

7.  Drywall and Green Board Bathroom Ceilings

 

Credits: https://www.sunrisespecialty.com/

When opting for drywall or green board, it is important to understand that the two are used in different sections of the bathroom.

Typical drywall will be a perfect fit for the non-shower or tub space.

However, for the area above the shower, you should consider moisture-resistant drywall or a green board.

The market is flooded with various drywall options including orange peel, splatter, and popcorn textures. These textures work perfectly to reduce noise and hide any imperfections.

If you’re looking to add a polished finish and additional protection to your drywall, you can consider painting it with a painting design of your liking.

A perfectly painted drywall will cover your bathroom space perfectly for years without the need for regular maintenance.

8.  Wood Cladding

It’s rare to find households installing wood in their ceiling space today as it was common about five decades ago.

Wood became an infamous bathroom ceiling choice due to its constant expansion and contraction nature depending on the environmental humidity levels.

Those who stick to wood protect it from damaging by painting or varnishing the wood with advanced material.

Failing to add a protective layer can accelerate mold growth and expose your wood ceiling to rotting.

9.  Properly Sealed Gypsum (Plaster of Paris Sheet)

Plaster of Paris sheets or gypsum is one of the affordable options for a ceiling space you can consider today. They are water-resistant and light making them easier to install using DIY techniques.

If you’ve had problems with mold growth in the past in your bathroom, you can safely use gypsum without having to worry about mold anymore.

Properly sealed gypsum is also great for sound and heat insulation. Therefore, if you want to retain as much heat as possible within your bathroom space, you should consider buying and installing gypsum.

10.  Cement Board

If you’re looking for an ideal material to cover your bathroom wall’s wet segments, then a cement board will always be a perfect match.

It is commonly used as a backer material for covering your wall’s wet segments to protect the ceiling from mold.

As a backer material, it is a great choice for wet spaces like the space above your shower cabin and the bathroom corners.

However, since the cement board is not moisture-resistant, you should consider sticking plastic sheeting under it to create a moisture barrier.

11.  Bathroom Ceiling Tiles

Bathroom ceiling tiles make excellent material for your bathroom ceilings. This is especially useful if you live in a humid climate.

Bathroom ceiling tiles will also be useful if you are installing a steam shower or a sauna. You can easily tile the ceiling to protect it from moisture. Bathroom ceiling tiles work a lot better in these conditions than wood, etc. 

If you are planning on doing an accent wall in the shower, bathroom ceiling tiles can be a great option and will help to extend the tile overhead.

Types of Bathroom Ceiling Materials

The most common material used for bathroom ceilings is drywall, which consists of a layer of gypsum sandwiched between two layers of heavy paper. Other materials that can be used include plaster, tile, and even wallpaper. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each material will help to make the best choice for your bathroom ceiling. Here's our evaluation on the best bathroom ceiling materials.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Various Bathroom Ceiling Materials

Drywall is the most common material used for bathroom ceilings, as it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. It also provides a good sound barrier and allows for wiring or fixtures to be easily added. However, drywall can be susceptible to moisture damage if not properly sealed, which can lead to mold growth.

Plaster has been used in homes for centuries and provides an elegant look with its intricate patterns and textures. Plaster is highly resistant to water damage so it is often chosen by those who want peace of mind regarding moisture issues. The main downside is the cost, as plaster can be much more expensive than drywall and require specialized tools for installation.

Tile is an attractive choice for bathroom ceilings since it comes in a variety of colors and patterns. The tile is also highly water-resistant, so it's perfect for areas prone to moisture. However, tile can be difficult to install due to its weight and requires extra support in the form of a second backing layer. Additionally, replacing damaged tiles can be time-consuming and costly.

Wallpaper is sometimes chosen for bathroom ceilings since it provides decorative options that are not available with other materials. Wallpaper can easily be installed over existing surfaces which makes it appealing for DIYers or those on a budget. The main disadvantage of wallpaper is that it can be prone to tears or water damage and may need to be replaced more often than other materials.

Cost of Different Materials for Bathroom Ceilings

After evaluating, the cost of the different materials used for bathroom ceilings will depend on several factors including the size of your project, the type of material chosen, installation costs, and local labor rates. Generally speaking, drywall is the least expensive option followed by tile and then plaster. Wallpaper tends to be the most expensive due to its decorative nature.

How to Install the Material on a Bathroom Ceiling

Installing new material on a bathroom ceiling can seem like an intimidating task but with the right tools and some patience, it can be done fairly easily. Drywall is the easiest material to install and requires only a few basic tools such as a hammer, nails, and drywall screws. Plaster and tile can be more difficult to install since they require extra support from a second backing layer. Wallpaper is also relatively simple to install but may need some help from an experienced professional. Regardless of the material chosen, it is important to make sure that all surfaces are properly sealed against water damage before installation begins. This will ensure that your bathroom ceiling looks great for years to come.

What are the most common types of bathroom ceiling materials?

The most common types of bathroom ceiling materials are drywall, acoustic tiles, and plaster. Drywall is the most popular choice due to its affordability and easy installation process. Acoustic tiles provide sound absorption while plaster can be customized with paint or wallpaper to create a unique look.

What factors should I consider when choosing a bathroom ceiling material?

When selecting a bathroom ceiling material you should consider how much maintenance is required, the cost, fire safety ratings, the ability to resist mold and mildew growth, water resistance, and noise insulation properties. Additionally, you may want to choose a material that will match the style of your existing decoration scheme.

Are there any special considerations for installing a ceiling in a bathroom that has high humidity or moisture levels?

When installing a ceiling in a bathroom that has high humidity or moisture levels, it is important to choose a material that will not be affected by moisture. Acoustic tiles and plaster are the best options, as they are more resistant to moisture than drywall. Additionally, all materials should be treated with a waterproof sealant to ensure maximum protection from water damage. It is also advisable to install a vapor barrier on top of the ceiling material which will help keep out any excess moisture.

Get the Best Materials for Your Bathroom Ceiling Ideas

With this list of the best bathroom ceiling materials, you now understand it’s important to invest in an option that promises durable performance.

Remember to consider all the necessary factors that may affect the optimal performance of your bathroom ceiling material before you pay for it.

You can always consult with professional plumbers on the best options for your area, room, and budget you have at hand to help you cut shopping time.

Dino Paccino

Dino Paccino

Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.

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