If you’re shopping for a bath remodel, you’ve probably noticed one word popping up everywhere: acrylic. And then you hear about SignatureStone, and suddenly the question becomes: If it’s not acrylic… what is it, and why does it matter for my bathroom?
In this guide, we’ll break it down in plain English and focus on what homeowners actually care about: how it looks, how it holds up, how easy it is to clean, and what kind of value it brings long-term. No chemistry lecture. Just the real-world difference.
And if you decide you want help narrowing it down, Joyce Windows, Sunrooms & Baths does this every day. We’re bath remodeling experts, and during your appointment, we’ll walk you through styles, finishes, and layout options, answer the “what’s this really going to cost?” questions, and leave you with clear next steps, without pressure.
First, a quick vocabulary check
Plastic
A synthetic material that can be molded when soft and formed into a solid shape.
Acrylic
Acrylic is a clear, strong, stiff plastic. It has glass-like properties, weighs about half as much as glass, and offers high impact resistance. Acrylic is available in many colors.
Polymer
A polymer is a material made of many small building blocks (molecules) linked together in long, repeating chains, which is why it can be engineered for specific strength, flexibility, and durability.
So… where does SignatureStone fit?
What is SignatureStone?
SignatureStone is a unique, engineered, multi-layered polymer developed to meet high demand for a permanent, virtually maintenance-free alternative to natural stone and marble in bath system applications.
In other words: it’s engineered for the beauty people want from stone, with the simplicity people want from modern bath systems.
Why homeowners care: the 4 big differences
1) Appearance: “Stone-like” vs “plastic-like”
Acrylic is often finished with a glossy protective coating. That shine can read as “plastic” in certain lighting, especially in a bathroom where reflections are everywhere.
SignatureStone is designed to deliver a more natural-stone or marble look without the high-gloss finish that can make panels feel less premium.
2) Pattern realism: repetitive vs natural
A common frustration with acrylic “stone” looks is that patterns can appear repetitive. Once you notice the repeat, you can’t unsee it.
SignatureStone is engineered to achieve a more true-to-life stone and marble appearance, with patterns that feel more natural and less “printed.”
3) Strength and thickness: fewer worries about cracking
SignatureStone improves structural performance compared to standard acrylic panels. One major reason:
It’s about twice as thick as standard acrylic options, which helps reduce flexing and greatly lessens the opportunity for cracking.
If you’re the type of homeowner who worries about durability (and most people are), this is the kind of behind-the-scenes detail that matters.
4) The finished look: shower pan match matters
One detail that makes a big visual difference is the shower pan. Most of the time, acrylic systems only offer a white shower pan, which can break up the design if you’re going for a stone or marble look on the walls.
With SignatureStone, you can choose a matching shower pan that coordinates with the wall system, creating a more cohesive, high-end, spa-like look from top to bottom.
|
Feature |
Acrylic Panels |
SignatureStone® Bath System |
|
What it is |
A strong, stiff plastic (acrylic). |
Engineered multi-layered polymer designed to mimic natural stone. |
|
Thickness |
Standard thickness. |
About 2× thicker than standard acrylic (more structural support). |
|
Look & finish |
Often glossy to protect the surface, can read as “plastic.” |
More stone-like appearance with a natural, spa-style finish. |
|
Pattern realism |
Stone/marble patterns can look repetitive. |
More natural-looking patterns with less repetition. |
|
Durability |
Can be more prone to cracking under impact or flex. |
Improved structural performance; reduced chance of cracking. |
|
Maintenance |
Low maintenance; wipe-clean surface. |
Virtually maintenance-free; built for long-term performance. |
|
Customization |
Color options available; style can feel uniform. |
Enhanced customization with a premium, natural-stone aesthetic. |
|
Shower pan options |
Often only available in white. |
Matching shower pan available for a cohesive, spa-like look. |
Maintenance: where both shine, and SignatureStone leans “set it and forget it”
Many homeowners choose a panel bath system because they want less scrubbing and fewer grout lines. Acrylic is already known for being relatively easy to clean.
SignatureStone was developed to be virtually maintenance-free, providing a long-term surface for everyday use without requiring a complex care routine.
Which should you choose?
Choose acrylic if you want a straightforward, budget-friendly wall system and don’t mind a glossier finish or more uniform, repeating patterning.
Choose SignatureStone if you want:
- a more natural stone/marble look
- organic pattern with matching shower pan
- a thicker, more structurally robust panel built to reduce cracking risk
- a premium option designed to stay beautiful with minimal upkeep
Want to see the difference in person?
The fastest way to make confident choices is to compare finishes and patterns up close, then match them to real pricing for your space.
At Joyce Windows, Sunrooms & Baths, we’ll walk you through your options, address your concerns (cost, durability, cleaning), and provide clear pricing so you can decide on your timeline.
Ready for a free, no-pressure estimate? Contact us today to get measurements, options, and real numbers.
