A Guide to The LBI Real Estate Market and Outdoor Showers
- 43 minutes ago
- 4 min read
Guide to Outdoor Showers on Long Beach Island (LBI)
Outdoor showers are a signature feature of homes across Long Beach Island, offering both practicality and coastal charm. Whether rinsing off after a beach day or adding value to a property, outdoor showers are a major selling point in the LBI real estate market. Homeowners and buyers encounter a wide range of outdoor shower styles, each with its own look, durability, and maintenance needs. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most common outdoor shower types found across LBI—plus the pros and cons of each.
By: Nathan Colmer | LBI Real Estate Agent | The Van Dyk Group
Cell: 609-290-4293 | Office: 800-222-0131 | ncolmer@vandykgroup.com
The LBI Real Estate Market and Outdoor Showers
There are a number of different building options for outdoor showers on Long Beach Island. Each has a pro and a con! You can learn about the LBI Real Estate Market and Outdoor Showers to help decide what works best for you.
Vinyl Outdoor Showers
Vinyl outdoor showers are a favorite across Long Beach Island due to their affordability and low‑maintenance profile. They resist moisture, fading, and warping, making them ideal for salt‑air environments.
Pros
Very low maintenance
Easy to clean
Moisture‑resistant and durable
Pairs well with vinyl‑sided homes
Cons
Lacks the warmth and natural look of wood
Can feel more “manufactured” in appearance
More generic and less customized to the specific home
Cement Board Outdoor Showers
Cement board is often used as a substrate for tile or stone shower walls. While less common as a visible finish, it creates a strong foundation for custom luxury showers.
Pros
Extremely durable
Ideal for tile and stone applications
Moisture‑resistant when properly installed
Cons
Requires professional installation
Heavy and may need reinforced framing
Not typically used as a finished surface
Natural Cedar Outdoor Showers
Cedar showers are a classic coastal choice and fit perfectly with the character of many LBI homes. Cedar ages beautifully and blends naturally with beach‑town aesthetics.
Pros
Beautiful natural look and aroma
Resistant to decay and insects
Ages into a soft silvery‑gray patina
Complements traditional coastal architecture
Cons
Requires periodic sealing or staining
Softer wood that may weather more quickly
More maintenance than PVC or vinyl
One of the most expensive types of outdoor showers to build on Long Beach Island
Azek / PVC Outdoor Showers
Azek (a type of premium cellular PVC) offers a bright, clean, modern appearance with exceptional durability. Many newer LBI constructions use Azek for its long‑lasting performance.
Pros
Very low maintenance
Strong and weather‑resistant
Maintains bright white color
Ideal for harsh coastal conditions
Cons
More expensive than standard vinyl
Lacks the natural character of real wood
Outdoor Showers Built Into the Home With Matching Siding
These showers are integrated directly into the structure of the house, using the same siding, trim, and architectural details. They add a seamless and often upscale look.
Pros
Blends perfectly with home design
Looks custom and high‑end
Can be built with any siding type—vinyl, cedar shingles, composite, etc.
Cons
Typically more expensive to build
Requires proper moisture protection
Must be professionally designed and installed
Composite Outdoor Showers
Composite materials combine synthetic durability with the texture of wood, offering a middle ground between vinyl convenience and cedar aesthetics.
Pros
Very durable and weather‑resistant
Low maintenance
Mimics the look of wood without the upkeep
Cons
Often more costly than vinyl
Limited color ranges
Stainless Steel, Stone, and Other Luxury Options
High‑end builds may include stone, tile, or stainless steel showers—often found in luxury LBI homes or new construction.
Pros
Very durable and weather‑resistant
Offers a premium, spa‑like appearance
Elevates the value of the property
Cons
Higher installation and material costs
Stone must be slip‑resistant and properly drained
Why Outdoor Showers Matter in the LBI Real Estate Market
On Long Beach Island, outdoor showers are more than a convenience—they’re a lifestyle feature. Buyers often view them as indicators of how well a home is built and maintained.
Vinyl and Azek appeal to buyers seeking low‑maintenance living.
Cedar attracts those who appreciate classic Jersey Shore charm.
Built‑in and luxury showers help homes stand out in competitive price ranges.
In a market where outdoor living space plays a huge role in property value, the style and condition of an outdoor shower can influence both desirability and sale price. The LBI Real Estate Market and Outdoor Showers had a unique and suprising connection that all buyers and sellers should understand.
Buying or selling on Long Beach Island is different from anywhere else, and having the right guidance matters with such a significant investment. I'm Nathan Colmer, a local LBI real estate agent with over 20 years of experience helping buyers and sellers make informed decisions, especially when it comes to second homes and investment properties.
As both a real estate professional and an active investor in the LBI real estate market, I offer insight beyond listing details. Whether you're looking for a vacation home, exploring investment options, or ready to list your property, I take a personalized, hands-on approach to help you navigate the process with confidence.
By: Nathan Colmer | LBI Real Estate Agent | The Van Dyk Group
Cell: 609-290-4293 | Office: 800-222-0131 | ncolmer@vandykgroup.com
