Wet Wall Panels or Tiles - Deciding the Best Bathroom Wall Solution

When deciding what wall covering to use in your new bathroom, your first thought will most likely be tile. However, wet wall panels – or shower panels or bathroom wall panels – are fast becoming a popular alternative. This blog will look at the advantages and disadvantages of both tile and wet wall panels, and hopefully by the end you will have a better idea of which is best for you and your bathroom.

What are Wet Wall Panels and Tiles?

Tiles are the traditional choice of wall covering for a bathroom. They provide a wipeable, waterproof – to a point! – and stylish wall covering. A wet wall panel is a large panel usually made from PVC. These panels are hard wearing, 100% waterproof, and can perfectly emulate a range of different materials, from tile and stone to marble and concrete.

Wet Wall Panels Vs Tiles

Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of both wet wall panels and tiles.

Wet Wall Panels

Advantages

• 100% waterproof – wet wall panels are 100% waterproof making them ideal for use in bathrooms, shower rooms, and ensuites.

• Ease of installation – wet wall panels can be installed in half the time it takes to fit traditional tiles. This reduces labour costs and means you can transform your bathroom in a matter of hours rather than days.

• Virtually maintenance free – once installed, wet wall panels only need a wipe with a clean, damp cloth to keep them looking like new – and as they do not require any grout during installation, you will not have to spend hours scrubbing mouldy grout with harsh cleaners.

• Hygienic – as mentioned above, wet wall panels do not need any grout to be fitted and therefore the chance of mould developing is reduced. This, combined with their waterproof properties, makes them a hygienic wall covering option.

• Versatility – wet wall panels are available in a range of different designs and colours. They can perfectly emulate real materials such as traditional tile, opulent marble, and contemporary concrete, allowing you to create a high end look on a more realistic budget.

• Insulation – wet wall panels can add an additional layer of insulation to your bathroom, as well as providing excellent soundproofing.

• Durable – wet wall panels are available in a variety of thicknesses, with each being extremely durable. They can withstand knocks and bumps, making them ideal for use in high traffic areas such as showers.

Disadvantages

• Limited design options – wet wall panels are usually very sizable, which although makes them easy to install, does limit your design options. You are not able to mix and match designs or create bespoke designs.

Tiles

Advantages

• Tried and tested – tiles are the traditional wall covering option and have been tried and tested over many years. Because of this, many homeowners will turn to tile rather than trying a more modern alternative.

• Infinite design options – tiles provide an infinite array of design options. You can use different colours, textures, and designs all on one wall. This provides you with an opportunity to create a bathroom which is truly unique.

• Longevity – if looked after properly and maintained regularly, tiles can offer a long-term wall covering solution

Disadvantages

• Not completely waterproof – once installed tiles have many joins, which although filled with grout, can still let water in. If not maintained, grout can crack and disintegrate. If this happens, water can get into and behind tiles, creating a damp and unhygienic environment over time.

• Prone to mould – as mentioned above, grout can attract mould if not cleaned regularly. If left to develop, mould can look unsightly and create an unhealthy atmosphere.

• Costly and time-consuming to install – whilst wet wall panels can be installed quickly and by anyone, tiles take far longer, with many homeowners employing the services of a professional. This then adds an additional cost to your bathroom transformation project.

What is the Best Option for me?

This is a personal preference. We may be biased but we believe wet wall panels are the perfect partner for your bathroom. 100% waterproof, extremely durable, and available in a variety of different designs and colours, wet wall panels can be used in any home from traditional terrace and modern detached to countryside cottage and historic hall.

Discover Our Wall Panel Range

If we’ve persuaded you that wet wall panels are the perfect partner for your next bathroom refurbishment, take a look at our wall panel range or call our expert team for more information on 0800 22 77 77.