What are the Best Types of Bathroom Wall Panels?
Bathroom wall panels come in a variety of different materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. So which one is right for your bathroom? Below, we explore three different types of wall panels, their benefits and which one we believe is the best.
What Types of Wall Panels are There?
PVC
PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a synthetic plastic which makes for a lightweight wall panel. PVC wall panels have a hollow construction and are slightly flexible, which makes them perfect for applying over rough surfaces. These panels are also usually waterproof and so are ideal for use in rooms with high condensation levels.
MDF
MDF or solid core wall panels, have a solid centre of either MDF or plywood which is then covered with a waterproof laminate.
Acrylic
Acrylic is another synthetic material which has similar properties to PVC. However, due to their composition acrylic wall panels are denser than PVC, less flexible and have a slightly semi-transparent appearance. As with PVC, acrylic is also waterproof and highly durable.
Which Panels Look the Best?
PVC, MDF and acrylic wall panels all offer different finishes, so the material you choose will depend on the look you want to achieve. PVC wall panels offer the widest choice of designs, colours and textures and allow you to emulate myriad different materials, from wood and ceramic tile to concrete and marble.
MDF wall panels are the thickest and heaviest of the three materials, so are more suited to larger bathrooms. They provide a varied array of designs and colours, but it is important to employ the services of a reputable fitter to install them and ensure they are sealed correctly to prevent water ingress. If water does get behind the laminated surface it can cause warping and rippling which will affect the look of the panel.
As mentioned above, acrylic wall panels offer a semi-transparent, almost glass-like, finish. They usually come in block colours or very vivid designs, making them perfect for creating an eyecatching feature wall.
What are the Benefits?
PVC
PVC wall panels are lightweight, 100% waterproof and extremely durable. They are easy to install – requiring no specialist skills or tools – and even easier to maintain, a wipe with a clean damp cloth is enough to keep them looking like new. They can be fitted over rough surfaces and even over existing tiles, so you can transform your bathroom quickly and simply.
MDF
MDF wall panels are heavy and thick and have a solid core, making them the most hardwearing of the three options. They are also available in a wide variety of finishes, from marble and tile to mineral. However, as mentioned above, they need to be installed by a professional to ensure they are sealed correctly.
Acrylic
Acrylic wall panels are the thinnest of all the materials, making them ideal for smaller spaces. However, they are also the heaviest due to their solid construction, so it is important to prepare your walls and fit them accordingly. As with PVC, acrylic wall panels are waterproof, easy to maintain and hygienic. They are available in a range of bold colours and designs and are perfect for creating a unique finish in your bathroom.
Which is the Best?
Whilst all three wall panel materials have their benefits, we believe PVC wall panels are the best choice for your bathroom renovation. Not only are they available in myriad designs, allowing you to emulate any material from marble and tile to concrete and wood, but they are 100% waterproof, hygienic, easy to install and easy to maintain. They are the perfect combination of style and substance.
If you would like to find out more about the benefits of PVC wall panels, talk to our friendly team today on 0800 22 77 77.
