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Matte or Gloss Bathtub?

In the case of a bathroom renovation, whether you’re replacing a bathtub or adding a new one, you will need to determine what type of bathtub will best suit your new bathroom. Bathtubs are a large and significant inclusion. Accordingly, an important question to ask is: should the new bathtub be matte or glossy? In this article, we examine this question and the major associated considerations. It’s not all about looks – there are implications for functionality as well. Armrock Constructions specialises in bathroom renovations on the Gold Coast QLD – if you’re considering a bathroom renovation, please contact our team. We are here to assist:

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Bathtub – Basic Functionality

Bathtubs are designed to retain water, and for people to be able to hop in and out of them. Fair enough? Whether your tub has a matte or gloss finish, you will be able to use and enjoy your tub. However, there are some subtle differences between these two finishes. These include:

a. (Primarily) the look of your bathtub
b. (Secondly) functional aspects of your bathtub

The Different Between Matte & Gloss

Amrock Bathroom Renovation with Matte Bathtub

Matte and gloss are different finishes. Matte is a less-reflective finish, whereas gloss finishes are shiny and reflective. Here’s a quick review of the main differences:

MatteGloss
Minimal ReflectionHighly Reflective
Diffuse impressionShiny
TactileSmooth
Can have more GripCan be Slippery
OrganicVintage / Classical
Matte Vs Glossy Differences

One isn’t better than the other. Matte and gloss are two different finishes which can be successfully applied to a wide range of bathroom styles. This gives a great scope of possibilities for your Gold Coast renovation project. You can learn more about using matte and gloss in interior design in this article.

Design: Matte Vs Gloss / Design Objectives

Gloss bathtub with diffuse / non-gloss background

Matte and Gloss can both be applied to a wide range of different bathroom styles. The applications are very versatile – you might use either approach towards a range of different stylistic resolutions; for example, a high-end bathroom renovation design could feature either a matte or a gloss bathtub. This is also true with other types of bathroom styles; e.g. classical, natural, industrial, vintage, or minimalist. The difference is the way the bathtub exists and relates to other bathroom elements. Some of the key ways this can work include:

Design: Lightness and Spaciousness

Gloss Bathtubs Reflect More Light

Glossy bathtubs are more reflective, so by virtue of their size, can enhance the light in the room. This can amplifying the sense of spaciousness in the room. Increasing light in this way can help to optimise the use of both natural light and situational lighting. This effect isn’t always desirable, but it’s worth pointing out if you’re looking to achieve that type of outcome.

Design: Reflection & Softness

Highly Reflective is a Harder Look

Matte finishes tend to create a softer effect, while the opposite is true with a gloss finish. This is mainly due to the level of reflectiveness in the finishes. Depending on the look you’re going for, the extent of reflection in the bathroom needs to be taken into account. A ‘natural’ look might enjoy the softness and integration created by a matte tub, whereas an opulent style might go the other way. There are also numerous subtle combinations that can be used to create mid-range effects as well. There are multiple approaches!

Design: Immersion

Matte Bathtub with Soft Timber Tones: Immersive

Matte finishes definitely create a more immersive effect. Whereas highly reflective bathrooms move the eye around the room, softer and more diffuse finishes allow the eye to sink into the room. For a space that is a refuge and sanctuary, like a bathroom, this may be a good outcome. However, the bathroom also needs to be viewed in the context of the broader home design; also, the opposite of this immersive quality is the goal of some bathroom styles. In many cases, the middle ground is where the best results may lie.

Historical Design Context

Matte and Gloss are looks that have evolved through a long history of design movements. They have both been ‘on-trend’ at different periods in time. Gloss traditions pre-date matte traditions.. most likely because early in the piece, everything (except for polished stone, glass, etc) was non-glossy – so making things ‘shiny’ equated to a desirable, luxurious look that wasn’t regularly available.

This tradition goes back to the Baroque Period (17th & 18th Century) and the Rococo Style (18th Century), where it was expressed by highly polished, gilded and reflective surfaces. This style has flowed through various design movements to contemporary modern design. Meanwhile, matte styles go back to the late 19th Century, when the Arts & Crafts Movement in Britain began to celebrate the beauty in natural materials. This tradition has also evolved through different design eras (such as industrial design and contemporary minimalism) to bring us to the modern era.

That’s the great thing about modern bathroom design options – we have the best of both worlds, in our ability to access a long history of design evolution, in conjunction with increasingly superior materials, to create the bathrooms of our dreams! Yes!

A Relatively Safe Diversion

Matte / Gloss Decisions Can Be Very Low-Impact

A quick note – in bathroom design, ‘less is more’ is often the path to success. Unlike many of the stylistic choices that can be made in bathroom design, the matte / gloss bathtub choice is a relatively safe decision. If you’re opting for a white bathtub (which is the most common convention) it will still be white whether you use a matte or gloss style – in many cases, the distinctions are highly subtle.

Functionality: Scratch Resistance

Gloss finishes may be more resistance to scratches than matte finishes in general, although this may depend on the specific product. Materials have evolved, and continue to evolve. Matte finishes are purpose-made, and should be capable of handling the normal wear and tear that a bathtub might experience.

Functionality: Keeping it Clean

Armrock Gold Coast Reno with Matte Bathtub

In terms of keeping your bathtub looking nice and clean, there are issues like fingerprints, smudges, dirt and grime to take into account, and the question of which finish is easier to maintain. Both matte and gloss finishes have different pros and cons in this area, and again, this may depend on specific products. Because matte surfaces are non-reflective, they don’t tend to show minor marks as obviously as a reflective gloss finish. Meanwhile, matte surfaces may retain stains easier than gloss surfaces (if they’re not attended to quickly, or if the incorrect cleaning products are used). This is generally because gloss surfaces are harder.

Functionality: Safety

While both matte and gloss finishes go towards the creation of a functional bathtub, matte finishes may (depending on the product) offer a somewhat safer solution due to the texture of the surface being less slippery. However, since bathtubs have been made with gloss finishes for centuries, it’s interesting to note that the advent of switching to textured materials for bathtubs hasn’t arisen as an essential requirement. Getting in and out of bathtubs can be tricky, especially for more elderly people, so inclusions such as safety hand rails may be a more relevant solution, at the discretion of the homeowner.

Functionality: Scratch Resistance

Other Elements Such as Basins Can Also Be Matte / Gloss

Gloss finishes may be more resistance to scratches than matte finishes in general, although this may depend on the specific product. Materials have evolved, and continue to evolve. Matte finishes are purpose-made so they should be capable of handling the normal wear and tear that a bathtub might experience in normal usage.

Conclusion: The Way Forward

Matte and gloss are two different approaches to bathtubs that have stylistic and functional implications. Assuming normal usage, the stylistic aspects are the most important. The bathtub is a significant visual element and makes a large contribution to the look and feel of the bathroom. Understanding the type of bathroom you wish to create, and then including the necessary elements, is something of an art form. We can help. Our team are experienced bathroom renovators and can work with you to design and implement exactly what you’re looking for. Simply contact us for a free consultation and quote to get started:

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Filed Under: Renovation Design Tagged With: Bathroom Design, Bathtub, Gloss, Matte, Matte Vs Gloss Bathtub, Sink

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Andrew Watkins

Roland and his team were very professional and affordable. We had two bathrooms and a laundry renovated by Armrock Constructions and we couldn’t be happier. Would definitely recommend them.

Renovation Testimonial

From quote to completion, Armrock was outstanding. We couldn’t be happier. Hassle free and on budget. If you’re after attention to detail you’ve come to the right place. Highly recommended. Thanks again.

 

Shayna Kivlins

Highly recommend your company to anyone wanting an amazing and highly professional job done your attention to detail with our kitchen was 120% you were very helpful in all aspects from start to finish and the end product exceeded my expectations. You are a very talented guy and I can’t thank you, Luke the sparkie and Chris the plumber enough for making my kitchen dream come to life.

 

Richard Anyos

Good, friendly, prompt, reliable service with attention to detail.

Al Dobie

Roland and his team were fantastic. The work was done on time and of a very high standard. Cheers Roland.

Mark & Di Branks

Roland delivered an exceptional product. Our Bathroom upgrade was completed on time and to budget. As with most renovations there were a number of unforeseen issues and Rolands ability to offer practical, cost effective solutions was exceptional. A very professional, clean and tidy builder and we have no hesitation in recommending his services.

Matt Lyons

Attention to detail. Great finish. Highly recommend these guys!

 

Lucy Fisher

Great communication, good attention to detail. We were so impressed. Our new ensuite looks amazing!

 

Cameron Grant Ruksenas

Great service from the owner Roland. Nothing was a problem and service and price was reasonable! Will recommend to others.

 

Keith Munday

Very pleased with a very professional job completed by Roland and his team. Roland never failed to turn up when expected or respond to a message if he was unable to take a call. He was also helpful and patient while we changed our minds repeatedly about what we wanted. We’re getting him back to do the kids bathroom!

 

Graham Robertson

Roland renovated both the Ensuite & main bathroom, removing the walls around separate toilets which increased the overall spaces. The team of guys who did the demolition & construction were really easy to deal with & the finish is excellent. It was no problem for us to request minor changes along the way. We’re really pleased with the outcome & would thoroughly recommend.

Geoff Haigh

Excellent workmanship. Professional, on time. Easy to deal with.

Reiner Ebenhoch

Armrock Constructions did our powder room first. We were so impressed with their work that we contracted Armrock to do a minor reno to our master bathroom and a major renovation of our guest bath room, which also included the complete rebuilt and conversion of one room into a steam room. Again, Armrock did an excellent job! What sets Roland and his team apart is their customer focus, their uncompromising attitude to quality, integrity and customer satisfaction. We can recommend Roland and his team unconditionally and have so already to many of our friends!

Small Reno Testimonial

I don’t often write reviews but felt this time I had too. A huge thank you to Roland from Armrock constructions. From the first time I contacted Roland he could not have been more helpful and professional. Roland was on time, got the job done and left my home clean and tidy. Please if your wanting a small spruce up or a full reno done these are the people to call. Thanks once again Armrock.

Cameron

Roland from Armrock constructions has completed a few projects for our company and is always a pleasure to deal with. Always reliable, not like some tradies we have chosen in the past. Quality is something Roland strives for and it shows in his work. Would recommend to anyone.

 

Terry Christo

We had the pleasure of dealing with Roland and his team. They are professional courteous clean and most importantly excellent communicators during the process. Their workmanship and pride in achieving an excellent result is a breath of fresh air when dealing with trades people. I highly recommend them.

Joel Boniwell

The moment I contacted the owner Roland I was at ease with proceeding with this company. Not only does he come across as a genuine person, he is punctual and sticks to his word. He had everything organised and the renovation of my en-suite went exactly as planned and the quote was spot on. The tradesman he organised for the job are all extremely punctual and extremely qualified at their specific trades. I can’t give this company a stronger recommendation and will be sure to use Roland and his team for any future renovations. A+ Service in an industry that you will seldom find it in.

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