KOHLER has long been a trusted name in the home improvement market, especially when it comes to bathroom fixtures. One of their more recent offerings, the LuxStone shower system, promises a luxurious bathing experience with its natural stone aesthetics and customizable designs.
But like any product, it’s not without its faults. Let’s delve into the top 10 problems with KOHLER LuxStone showers.
Problems with KOHLER LuxStone Shower Systems
- Higher Costs
The first thing that most homeowners notice about KOHLER LuxStone is its higher price tag.
LuxStone showers tend to be more expensive than their tile counterparts, largely due to the premium materials used and the associated installation costs.
This means a larger upfront investment, which may not fit into everyone’s budget.
- Installation Complexity
KOHLER promotes a quick and hassle-free installation process for LuxStone.
But, in reality, the installation can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring professional assistance.
This not only adds to the cost but also extends the renovation timeline.
- Limited Variety of Textures and Colors
While LuxStone boasts several design options, the variety is still quite limited compared to tile showers. Homeowners might find their desired aesthetic hard to achieve, as there are fewer textures and colors available.
- Possible Discoloration Over Time
Several customers have reported discoloration with their KOHLER LuxStone showers over time. This can result from exposure to certain cleaning chemicals or a lack of regular maintenance, thereby affecting the overall appeal and longevity of the shower.
- Potential Water Retention Issues
While LuxStone’s non-porous material reduces the risk of water damage and mold, it doesn’t completely eliminate water retention issues. Some users have reported water pooling, which can lead to mildew buildup if not addressed promptly.
- Difficulty in Repairing or Replacing Individual Panels
Unlike tiles, which can be easily replaced if damaged, LuxStone panels are installed in large sections. This means that any damage can necessitate the replacement of an entire panel, which can be both costly and inconvenient.
- Dependency on Professional Help for Maintenance
Despite KOHLER’s claims of LuxStone’s easy maintenance, many users have found it difficult to maintain without professional help. This reliance can add a recurring cost to the overall expense of the shower system.
- Sensitivity to Certain Cleaning Products
While LuxStone is durable, it’s sensitive to certain harsh cleaning products. This means homeowners need to be cautious when selecting cleaning agents, adding another layer of complexity to the maintenance process.
- Incompatibility with Existing Plumbing
LuxStone’s customization may not always align with existing plumbing configurations, leading to additional modifications or adaptations. This could mean additional costs and potential disruption to the home’s existing water systems.
- Perception of Material Quality
Though LuxStone is a blend of crushed stone and high-quality fiber, some users perceive it as ‘plastic-like’, leading to questions about its long-term durability and value for money. This can affect potential buyers’ decision-making process and their overall satisfaction with the product.
The Value of KOHLER LuxStone Despite Its Problems
Despite the aforementioned problems, many homeowners still find KOHLER LuxStone to be a worthwhile investment. Here’s why:
- Premium Aesthetic and Feel
One of the biggest selling points of LuxStone is its luxury aesthetic.
The use of crushed stone and high-strength fibers gives it a unique look and feel, akin to natural stone.
This helps create a sense of opulence and comfort in the bathroom, turning a regular shower into a relaxing retreat.
- Durability
LuxStone’s durability is another major factor.
The materials used are designed to resist chipping, cracking, and fading, ensuring a long-lasting product.
Even though there are reports of discoloration, this usually stems from improper maintenance or the use of harsh cleaning products. Proper care can help maintain the shower’s original appearance for years.
- Customization
LuxStone showers offer various design options, allowing homeowners to create a customized look that fits their personal style and the existing bathroom decor.
While it may not have as extensive a color palette or texture variety as tile showers, it still provides more customization than many standard shower systems.
- Ease of Maintenance
Compared to tile showers, LuxStone is easier to maintain. There’s no grout to clean, and its non-porous surface resists mold and mildew. While it may be sensitive to certain cleaning products, using approved cleaners can maintain its luster and cleanliness with less effort.
- Added Property Value
Investing in a KOHLER LuxStone shower can add value to your property. Its premium aesthetic and reputation for durability can be appealing to potential buyers, making it a beneficial addition for those considering selling their home in the future.
In summary, despite its potential problems, KOHLER LuxStone can be a valuable investment for many homeowners. Its luxurious aesthetic, durability, customization options, ease of maintenance, and potential to add property value outweigh the issues for many.
However, it’s essential to evaluate these benefits against the potential drawbacks based on your personal needs, budget, and long-term plans for your home.
Is LuxStone Worth the Investment?
Despite the potential for discoloration, cracks, chipping and other issues outlined, LuxStone still delivers an attractive, highly durable surface when properly cared for.
The minor drawbacks must be weighed against the positive benefits:
Pros of LuxStone:
- Natural stone look for much less cost
- Resists mold and bacteria growth
- Stays warmer than real stone
- Lighter weight for easier installation
- Withstands scratches and dents
- Easy to wipe clean with proper maintenance
Potential Cons:
- More prone to damage from cleaning chemicals
- Not as glossy as acrylic or porcelain
- Requires more regular maintenance than some surfaces
- Can show more signs of wear over time without proper care
- Minor tendency to discolor with heavy use
If the classic look of stone is desired without the high price tag and upkeep, LuxStone remains an excellent option for homeowners who take the time to clean and care for it properly.
Being aware of the potential challenges allows you to prevent them and enjoy the benefits LuxStone provides.
With great attention to preventative maintenance and minor repair of any chips or cracks along the way, a LuxStone shower or tub can stay looking fresh and clean for a decade or more.
Take steps to avoid direct sunlight exposure, extreme swings in temperatures and impacts that could cause chips or cracks. Stick to gentle cleaners and soft cloths.
LuxStone Vs. Acrylic Comparison
How does LuxStone compare to full acrylic shower walls and bathtubs? Here’s a quick breakdown:
LuxStone
- Looks and feels more like real stone
- Stains and scratches less easily than acrylic
- Provides more realistic texture than smooth acrylic
- Stays warmer to the touch than acrylic
- Can show more signs of wear over time
Acrylic
- More flexible and resistant to cracks
- Easier to keep pristine white over years
- Warmer than stone but can feel slightly plastic-like
- More prone to scratching and staining
- Lower cost for solid acrylic versus stone blend
Both offer budget-friendly alternatives to higher end showers and tubs with their own pros and cons. Acrylic excels at staying white and glossy but succumbs easier to damage from cleaning and use. LuxStone mimics stone better but requires more diligence to keep deposits and dirt from dulling the finish.
Maintaining Your LuxStone Shower or Tub
To get the most enjoyment and longevity from a LuxStone purchase, be sure to follow these maintenance tips:
- Dry with a squeegee after each use to minimize mineral spotting
- Apply a sealant yearly in high traffic areas
- Use only soft cloths or nylon brushes for cleaning
- Clean gently with dish soap and water weekly
- Rinse thoroughly and wipe away any cleaner residues
- Test cleaning products on low visibility areas first
- Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasives or bleach that could damage the surface
- Wipe spills promptly to prevent permanent staining
- Apply caulk if cracks appear to prevent water intrusion
- Repair chips when they first occur to prevent further damage
With proper care, a LuxStone shower or tub can maintain its good looks and performance for a very long time. Take steps to clean and protect it, and your investment will pay dividends for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, generally, LuxStone tends to be more expensive than traditional tile showers due to the materials used and the cost of professional installation.
The cost of a LuxStone shower varies based on design choices and size, but on average, homeowners can expect to spend a few thousand dollars on the product and its installation.
The ‘best’ shower wall system depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. While LuxStone offers luxury and ease, other systems like ceramic or porcelain tiles might offer greater variety and affordability.
No, LuxStone is not plastic. It’s a blend of crushed stone and high-strength fibers, which gives it durability and a premium feel. However, some users have mentioned it feels plastic-like, which may affect perceptions of quality.
Yes, LuxStone is an excellent material for shower and tub units. It provides an attractive stone-like look for less cost than genuine stone. It’s also lighter weight than real stone yet highly durable.
The blend of crushed stone and acrylic resins creates a warmer, more inviting surface than true stone. With proper maintenance, LuxStone holds up very well to daily use.
LuxStone and acrylic each have their own pros and cons. LuxStone mimics the look of real stone better with more texture. It also resists scratches and stains slightly better than standard acrylic. However, acrylic is more flexible and crack-resistant.
Acrylic also shows fewer signs of age over time compared to LuxStone which requires diligent cleaning. For stone-look, LuxStone excels but acrylic is less maintenance.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, while the KOHLER LuxStone shower system offers many benefits, there are potential issues that homeowners should consider.
By understanding these problems, you can make an informed decision that best suits your home improvement needs.
i just got a quote for a 60×32″ shower with ceiling stone. About $20,000.