Shower Protection & Treatments

Why invest in shower protection & treatments?

High humidity, hard water minerals and harsh cleaning chemicals can quickly dull glass, stain tiles and encourage mould growth in New Zealand bathrooms. Specialist shower protection and treatment products form an invisible barrier that repels water, soap scum and bacteria, cutting cleaning time by up to 90 percent while extending the lifespan of your shower. They are a low-cost upgrade that preserves aesthetics, maintains hygiene and protects your renovation investment.

Main product categories

1. Nano glass coatings

These silicon-based or fluoropolymer liquids bond at a molecular level with glass panels to create a hydrophobic surface. Water sheets off, carrying minerals away before they can etch or cloud the glass. Many brands offer a ten-year warranty.

2. Penetrating sealers for tile, stone & grout

Porous materials soak up moisture, leading to discolouration and efflorescence. Penetrating sealers fill microscopic capillaries without changing the surface appearance, allowing vapour to escape while blocking liquid water.

3. Anti-mould & anti-bacterial treatments

Silver-ion or quaternary ammonium compounds inhibit fungal spores on silicone joints and grout lines. They are especially valuable in poorly ventilated bathrooms or rental properties where cleaning frequency is unknown.

4. Rejuvenation kits

Older showers can be restored with two-step kits that polish out etching, then coat the surface to prevent new build-up.

What to look for

• Surface compatibility: Check that the formula is safe for your glass type, natural stone, acrylic liner or metal hardware.
• Durability: Professional-grade coatings last 5–15 years; DIY wipes or sprays last 6–24 months.
• Ease of application: Sprays are simple but less durable; two-part wipe-on systems need curing time; pro-applied options require a dry, dust-free shower.
• Maintenance requirements: Some coatings are ‘self-cleaning’ with water alone, while others need pH-neutral cleaners.
• Warranty & compliance: Look for written performance data and alignment with NZ Building Code clause E3.

DIY or professional application?

Handy homeowners can apply many consumer sealers with microfibre cloths. The key is preparing a spotless, dry surface and following cure times. Professional applicators use commercial-grade formulas, respirators and UV lamps to achieve longer warranties and even coverage—worth considering for frameless glass or natural stone where mistakes are costly.

Cost snapshot (2023–24)

• DIY nano glass kit: $80–$150 for a 6–8 m² shower
• Tile & grout sealer: $40–$90 per litre (covers 5–10 m²)
• Professional glass coating: $300–$500 for an average 1200 × 900 mm enclosure
• Annual maintenance spray: $25–$40

Maintaining your protected shower

Even the best coating needs gentle care. Use a squeegee after each use, avoid abrasive pads and stick to pH-neutral cleaners. Re-apply maintenance boosters every 6–12 months if recommended by the manufacturer.

Planning a full upgrade?

Pair advanced protection with complementary products: choose frameless shower doors, sleek bath & shower screens or a complete shower box. Ensure correct water management with quality shower trays & drains and add convenience with shower shelves and other shower accessories. For a spa-like experience, explore indulgent steam showers.

Next steps

On ArchiPro you can filter by surface type, warranty length, eco-credentials and supplier location. Compare quotes, read verified reviews and request samples to feel the difference before you buy.