Solid Surface Shower Bases | Repairable, Non-Porous | Commercial & Residential
What Is Solid Surface? (Material Composition & Manufacturing)
Solid surface is an engineered composite material consisting of 60% solid particle aggregate aluminum hydroxide (ATH) and 40% acrylic-modified isophthalic polyester resin. Unlike cultured marble which has a gel coat surface over a different-colored core, solid surface features uniform through-body color—the same color extends throughout the entire thickness of the material. This composition creates a non-porous, dense material that resists water absorption, staining, and bacterial growth.
The aluminum hydroxide aggregate provides structural strength and heat resistance, while the acrylic-modified resin creates a smooth, workable surface that can be sanded, cut, and repaired even after years of installation. IMI’s SolidCast® shower bases are molded in single-piece construction eliminating seams or joints where water could penetrate.
The manufacturing process involves mixing aggregates and resin, pouring into precision molds, curing under controlled temperature and pressure, then demolding and finishing edges. This creates shower bases supporting 1,000+ pounds with minimal flex or deflection.
