Ever thought about if shower panels beat tiles in making your bathroom look good? With new shower wall materials becoming popular, comparing these two options is timely. When deciding between shower panels and tiles, think about their benefits and how they change your bathroom’s look and use.
Shower panels are now seen as an innovative, easy choice. They’re simple to put up, come in many styles, and are low-maintenance since there’s no grouting needed. They can also go right over old tiles, making them great for quick updates. But, traditional tiles also have their advantages. They have a timeless look and are very waterproof if put in right. However, grout might make them not last as long.
Key Takeaways
- Shower panels offer straightforward installation and can be fixed directly over existing tiles.
- The cost of individual panels ranges from £30 to £1000, suiting various budgets.
- Opt for durability with shower panels, with guarantees stretching up to 30 years.
- Panels, available in heights between 2m to 2.5m, provide a hygienic, grout-free surface.
- PVC shower panels are recyclable, potentially via local recycling centres.
Understanding Shower Panels
Shower panels have become a top pick for bathroom renovation trends. They offer a stylish alternative to old-school tiling. These panels make installation easier and allow for a wide range of designs and materials, meeting today’s tastes.
Types of Shower Panels
Shower panels are made from different materials like laminate with a core, acrylic sheets, and PVC hollow panels. These materials affect the panel’s strength and weight. Thus, they suit various bathroom styles.
Material Composition of Shower Panels
The panels come in durable laminate to lightweight PVC. Acrylic and composite materials are top choices for their strength and lasting nature. Top brands like WetWall offer selections from stone looks to bright colours, keeping up with bathroom renovation trends.
Design and Aesthetic Options
For design, shower panels offer choices from marble to concrete looks. Owners can pick matt or gloss finishes, which resemble modern shower tile designs but without the need for grout. Versital boasts over 90 finishes, giving custom options that look like natural products.
Installation Process for Shower Panels
Putting in shower panels is simple, using adhesive and sanitary-grade silicone for a watertight seal. Panels often click together or use the trim for a smooth join. This method is easier than tiling and some panels come in big sizes, covering walls faster.
Maintenance and Durability
Shower panels are easy to look after and last a long time. They avoid the mould and fading that tiles can have because of grout. Products from brands like Versital are grout-free, so they don’t let water or mould build up. These panels can last up to 30 years and resist scratching, making them a smart choice for the long term.
Innovative materials make the panels durable. Versital’s options, for example, are non-porous and keep bacteria away. This keeps modern bathrooms clean and safe.
In summary, shower panels are a great pick whether you prefer modern shower tile designs or new shower wall materials. They offer practical and stylish solutions for up-to-date bathroom makeovers.
Pros and Cons of Shower Panels Versus Tiles
Many Australian homeowners ponder over the shower tile vs panel debate during bathroom renovations. It’s critical to look at both options’ pros and cons. This includes aspects like installation ease, hygiene, and upkeep.
Advantages of Shower Panels
Shower panels are known for their ease of installation. They can be set up in just 2 to 4 hours. They fit over old tiles, cutting down on prep time and expenses. WetWall suggests panel installation can be up to twenty-five per cent cheaper than tiling.
Panels skip the need for grout. This means no mould and easier cleaning. Laminates, acrylics, and composites make them solid and leak-resistant. Also, panels offer a wide range of design options, allowing for different looks.
Disadvantages of Shower Panels
However, panels can be less tough than tiles. They may get damaged by impacts or strong chemicals. They stay low maintenance but can scratch, hurting their look over time. The design variety is great, but tiles offer more high-end customization.
Advantages of Tiles
Tiles have been decorating walls for over 20,000 years. Their strength and ability to keep out water are proven. With the right installation, they can last for many years, offering good value. Tiles can also match any personal style, adding a unique touch.
Tiles bring a certain quality you can feel. Their range allows for extensive customization. With care, tiles offer a timeless and elegant choice.
Disadvantages of Tiles
But, tiles have downsides. They take longer to install, about 6 to 8 hours. The cost can quickly add up, with prices ranging from $30 to $120 per square meter. Grout lines can attract mould and soap scum, making cleaning tougher.
Broken tiles can be expensive to fix. Overall, tiles demand more upkeep when compared to panels.
In summary, the shower tile vs panel debate shows that panels provide ease, hygiene, and low upkeep. Tiles offer lasting beauty and custom looks. Consider these points to make the best choice for your bathroom redo.
Choosing Between Shower Panels and Tiles
When you’re updating your bathroom, the choice between shower panels and tiles is key. Each has benefits like price, how simple they are to put in, cleanliness, and upkeep.
Cost Comparison
What’s best: shower panels or tiles? If you’re on a budget, shower panels are usually the way to go. Tile installation costs can vary. Wet wall panels, though, tend to be cheaper. They can even go over old tiles, saving on prep work. This makes shower panels a favourite among leading shower panel producers and property developers.
Ease of Installation
Shower panels have a big advantage in that they are easy to install. This can save a lot on the cost of putting them in. Tiles, in contrast, need a lot of work to set up and grout, taking up more time. Since shower panels can be placed over most existing surfaces, including old tiles, they make bathroom revamps smoother.
Hygiene and Maintenance
Shower panels are great for keeping a clean and low-maintenance bathroom. They avoid the need for grout, cutting down on mold risks. Compared to tiles, which can look great but need more work to keep clean due to mold-friendly grout lines. Cleaning shower panels is easy, requiring just soapy water. This makes them a wise pick for modern bathroom renovation trends.
Installing shower panels not only looks smart but also helps insulate your bathroom better than tiles do. This can lead to lower energy bills. This benefit makes shower panels a more practical and maintenance-friendly choice in the debate between shower panels and tiles.
What Is Best: Shower Panels or Tiles?
Choosing between shower panels and tiles boils down to what you like and need. If a modern, sleek design and easy maintenance is what you’re after, think about shower panels. They are less expensive than tiles, by about twenty-five per cent. This makes them a good choice for those on a budget.
Shower panels also keep your shower warmer, adding to comfort. Plus, they come in many finish options, even ones that look like marble. To help decide, check out the shower panels versus tiles pros and cons. And if you choose them, companies like WetWall are there to help with advice for easy installation.
Tiles, on the other hand, offer a classic look that’s been around for ages. They’re known for their unique feel and lasting strength. Tiles only became common in British homes in the early 20th century but are now loved for their classic look and resistance to water.
Yet, tiles need grouting, which might grow mould and need cleaning. This can be a hassle if you shower often. So, a low-maintenance option like shower panels might make life easier over time.
When picking between shower panels and tiles, think about costs, installation, and upkeep versus style and durability. Whether you go for the trendy appeal of shower panels or the traditional beauty of tiles, your choice should match your life and style. Always look at important factors to ensure you’re happy with your bathroom makeover for years to come.
FAQ
Q: What are the best options for shower panelling?
A: The top options for shower panelling depend on what you’re looking for. Choices include laminate, acrylic sheets, and PVC panels. They vary in strength, weight, and looks.
Q: What are the pros and cons of choosing shower panels over tiles?
A: Shower panels are simpler to fit and need less upkeep. They don’t need grout, so they resist mould better. Yet, they might not last as long as tiles and can scratch more easily.
Q: What are the most innovative shower wall materials available today?
A: The newest materials for shower walls include high-end laminates and acrylics. Also, strong PVC panels that look like marble or stone. You can choose from different textures and either matt or gloss finishes.
Q: How do shower panels compare to tiles in terms of maintenance?
A: Shower panels are easier to look after because they don’t have grout. A simple clean now and then is mostly enough. Tiles need more effort to keep the grout mould-free.
Q: What are some modern shower tile designs trending in bathroom renovations?
A: Current trends in shower tiles include big tiles and geometric designs. Also, tiles that look like wood or concrete, and ones with bold colours or a shiny finish.
Q: What is the installation process for shower panels?
A: Installing shower panels is quick. You just glue them on and seal them with silicone. They might slot together or use trims. You can also stick them over old tiles, saving time and effort.
Q: What factors should I consider when choosing between shower panels and tiles?
A: Think about how easy they are to put up, how they look, your budget, and how much care they need. Shower panels are quick and easy. But tiles last longer and have a classic look.
Q: Which are the top brands for shower panels?
A: Leading brands for shower panels are Multipanel, Showerwall, Wetwall, and Mermaid Panels. They all offer stylish designs, are long-lasting, and are easy to install.
Q: Are there cost differences between installing shower panels and tiles?
A: Yes, shower panels tend to be cheaper. They cost less for both materials and fitting since they’re easier to put up. Tiles usually cost more because they need a professional to lay them and add grout.
Q: How does the hygiene of shower panels compare to tiles?
A: Shower panels are cleaner than tiles. This is because they don’t have grout that mould and mildew can grow in. Their smooth surfaces make them simpler to keep clean, making them a better choice for bathroom walls.
Source Links
- Shower panels vs tiles: Which is best for your bathroom? – Grand Designs Magazine
- Are shower panels better than tiles? – Wetwall Blog
- Luxury surfaces: Tiles vs shower panels – Versital
- 5 reasons to choose wall panels for your bathroom – Mr. Wetwall
- Shower panels vs tiles: What’s the difference? – Victorian Plumbing
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