Modernise your bathroom: Bathroom Wall Panels

You may be weighing up the pros and cons of choosing to install bathroom panels. Unlike the traditional alternatives such as tiles, bathroom wall panels are sleeker, modern and much easier to install.

Whether you are looking to build a simple shower enclosure, revamp a shower cubicle or venture into the luxuries of a wet room (link) bathroom panels could be the way forward to creating the sleek designer look you want to achieve. 

Read more: How to Choose the Right Type of Shower Enclosure for Your Bathroom Suite

Tiles are more of a traditional choice for bathrooms and may fit the style if you want a vintage finish but, for the modern bathroom, panels are a game-changer. Not only is installation easier but panels also offer easier maintenance and don't require grouting at all! Easy to clean and easy to install. What’s not to love about that?

What is a bathroom wall panel?

Bathroom wall panels are wall coverings designed to be fitted in your bathroom. A great alternative to tiles, they are also very often used in kitchens. They're especially well suited to shower enclosures or wetrooms.

Often sold as a kit, they are waterproof and durable. They come in a wide variety of colours and finishes from marble effect to plain greys and whites, making them the perfect choice for an interior design.

Are bathroom wall panels better than bathroom tiles?

To answer this question you must first consider budget and the overall look you want to achieve. 

Cost

Bathroom wall panels have the advantage over tiles in that they consist of fewer parts; you’re potentially looking at one panel rather than 100 tiles.

Depending on the wall space you need to cover, bathroom wall panels can also be a more cost and less time-consuming option.  

Installation

With simple installation and no grouting, a bathroom wall panel is perfect for a quick fit! They can even be installed straight over existing bathroom tiles.

Shower wall kits come complete with trims and sealant making them easy to fit, potentially without the help of a professional. We would however recommend hiring a professional if you're not particularly DIY savvy.

Maintenance

Bathroom wall panels are easy to clean as they are non-porous, however they do not take well to abrasive cleaning products. Simply using a soft cloth or squeegee to regularly remove excess water and water marks will do the trick. 

Whereas, tiles can require a bit more elbow grease especially when trying to clean grout. Grout is always an issue with tiles and unless you’re consistent with cleaning daily and drying the walls off, your grouting can start to look a little worn after a few years. 

Aesthetic

It really comes down to whether you are trying to achieve a traditional or modern look. If are going for a more vintage style bathroom then tiles might be for you. Otherwise, bathroom panels are the best solution to a modern bathroom aesthetic, and look perfect paired with contemporary fittings.

The Verdict: Tiles or bathroom wall panels. Which are best?

Weighing up all aspects of both, they can measure up pretty equally. Really it comes down to preference and budget.

Super-sleek and modern is what you get with a bathroom wall panel whilst tiles are always going to give a more traditional finish - it’s all a matter of taste.

Here at Luxury Bathrooms And Tiles we are an official supplier of Multipanel, the bathroom panel industry’s leading U.K. manufacturer.