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PVC wall panels are an increasingly popular option for both domestic and commercial settings. With good reason too. They’re durable, affordable and completely waterproof. The only question left for many customers is what size are they?
In this post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the size of PVC wall panels – including which sizes you can choose from depending on the type of product you’re after, and how to make sure they fit your bathroom or kitchen perfectly.
As with any purchase, there are three different areas to consider with PVC wall panels – the length, width and thickness. Here is some information on all three when it comes to wall panels:
Broadly speaking, there are two options for thickness. Thin wall panels measure around 2.5mm, and these are fixed to your wall with an adhesive paste only. On the other hand, thicker wall panels of 8-10mm have a tongue and groove system so they click together when fitted to your walls.
Similarly, when it comes to width, you usually have a choice of wide or narrow panels. Wide panels are upwards of 1,000mm, which is ideal for covering larger areas with fewer panels. However, you can also find narrow panels that measure around 250mm in width to create a better tile- or wood-effect.
Length-wise, most PVC wall panels measure around 2,500mm. This length is sufficient to cover the entire walls for most bathrooms and kitchens. Of course, you can find slightly shorter and longer versions depending on your walls, or cut them to size for an exact fit where needed.
To give you a better idea of the sizes available, we’ll go through some of the different factors that affect size for our own collection of PVC wall panels.
For many buyers, appearance is just as important as function for PVC wall panels. As such, the size can be affected by the look you want to achieve. Let’s give you an example. Our Arctic Infinity range features detailed prints for a scenic backdrop, such as a Waterfall or Big Ben. To achieve that look, they need a sizeable canvas that’s over a metre in width.
On the other hand, a brick-effect or tile-effect design requires a narrower panel to reflect the usual repeatable pattern of these materials. As such, they measure 250mm wide and come in a pack of four to cover the same area as a wider panel.
Another factor that impacts the size of PVC wall panels is how and where you’ll be using them. Many bathroom panels will be used to cover the entire length of a wall. This is absolutely fine, given that standard wall panels are designed to do exactly that.
However, they may also be used for the area between your bath and the ceiling, or even as a small splashback panel around the sink. For these scenarios, you’ll need wall panels with less length than all standard sizes. However, you’re unlikely to find them in a size that fits your needs exactly. That’s where cutting panels comes into play…
As above, there are some purposes for which wall panels will need to be cut down. That could be a particularly small splashback area, where one panel can be separated into a few pieces, or just a small adjustment to fit your wall perfectly.
Whatever the case, it is possible to cut wall panels to size. What’s more, it’s actually pretty easy. Here’s how:
Of course, it’s not just shortening panels that this works for. You can also use the same approach to cut areas our of your wall panels to fit around windows or align with sloped ceilings. Similarly, you can cut panels lengthways to reduce their width when fitting them into the corners of your room.
A top tip is to place your cut panels in place without adhesive to make sure they fit well. That way, there’s less work to do if you realise their size isn’t quite right.
Understandably, when buying products, people frequently worry that the sizes displayed are simply estimates. That’s often the case with natural products like stone or wood, which can’t always be cut to an exact size that’s uniform across multiple products.
Thankfully, that isn’t true for PVC. As a manmade product, it can be produced and cut with high precision. At Igloo Surfaces, you can find clear dimensions for all our wall panel products in the product description, just underneath the product name and price.
The size you see is the size you will get. That said, you can have certain products cut to size for you, such as our Arctic Infinity range. You can also order product samples, which are much smaller in size but great to give you an idea of the material and design up close.
Hopefully our guide to PVC wall panel sizes has given you all the information you need to make an informed decision. If you’re ready to order PVC wall panels for your kitchen or bathroom, take a look at our full collection online today. We have a wide range of styles, including wood and stone effects, modern patterns and striking coloured panels.
Can’t find the exact size panels you’re looking for? It’s refreshingly simple to cut them to size and use multiple panels alongside one another to cover walls of any size and shape. But if you still have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us on 01709 329 117 or email [email protected].
When it comes to decorating your bathroom, water-resistance is arguably the most important factor to consider. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that ‘are bathroom wall panels waterproof’ is one of the most frequently asked questions about this product.
In this post, we’ll explain whether bathroom wall panels are waterproof, what qualities to look for, and why water-resistance is so vital.
Technically speaking, bathroom wall panels can refer to any wall panels marketed and sold specifically for the bathroom. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean they’re all designed for the bathroom in particular.
It’s perfectly conceivable to find wooden wall panels for bathrooms, for example. This is despite the fact that wood is typically unsuitable for high-moisture environments, given that it continuously adapts to its surrounding environment. So, in other words, wood will expand when it’s humid and contract when it’s dry.
Why are we explaining this? It’s important to bear in mind when answering whether or not they are waterproof…
Whether or not bathroom wall panels are waterproof depends on some key factors. Most crucially, it’s down to the material they’re made from…
Only a waterproof material can make waterproof bathroom wall panels. However, as explained above, they can technically be made from anything. In our recent blog post, we highlighted five potential materials that walls panels can be made from, which are:
As you might expect, it’s only the final two on that list which are waterproof. Unfortunately, glass panels come with other issues – most specifically their heat resistance and durability.
We’ll make it easy for you – if you’re looking for waterproof bathroom wall panels, PVC is the way to go. This has become one of the most popular decorating options thanks to its longevity, affordability and water-resistance. Not to mention that it’s easy to produce in a wide range of styles and designs.
Another important factor that affects the waterproofing qualities of your wall panels is the installation. Even the most water-resistant PVC bathroom wall panels will be let down if they’re installed incorrectly. So, what’s the best course of action?
One option is to find a wall panel supplier that provides installation as part of their service. That way, any waterproofing issues should be covered by their warranty.
However, this comes with the clear downside of cost. Hiring a professional to install your bathroom wall panels could take them from affordable to extortionate – especially if you’re at the mercy of the supplier, as you can’t shop around.
The alternative is to ensure that the waterproof PVC bathroom wall panels you purchase are easy to install. At Igloo Surfaces, for example, all our bathroom wall panels have been specifically designed for easy installation, with step-by-step help guides to show you the way.
That starts with a choice of tongue and groove panels, which interlock together for a tight seal. Alternatively, thinner panels simply need to be fixed to the wall using an adhesive paste. In either case, all you need to do to create a water-tight seal is apply a small amount of silicone between each panel, then add a cladseal strip around your bath or shower.
Having heard that some products sold as bathroom wall panels aren’t necessarily waterproof, you may be wondering whether water-resistance is essential for your own bathroom. However, the answer is still a firm “yes”. Here’s why…
Bathrooms are undoubtedly the wettest room in the home. As well as the potential of splashes from the bath, shower or sink, your floor, walls and ceilings will have some serious humidity to contend with.
For the uninitiated, that’s the moisture that’s transferred to the air whenever hot water is around. So, whenever you run a bath, turn on the shower or even fill the sink with hot water to wash off your makeup, the air in your bathroom will be getting more humid.
Most bathrooms are fitted with extractor fans to remove some of that moisture from the air – but it’s impossible to do so completely or immediately. If your wall covering isn’t waterproof, moisture can settle on it as condensation and eventually cause damp and mould.
When your walls become damp, that moisture can spread and cause more serious issues for your house. That includes rotting wooden trims like skirting boards and windowsills, as well as affecting roof rafters and floor joists.
Damp walls also provide the perfect environment for mould to grow. As well as being an eyesore, mould can cause health problems including poor immunity, respiratory infections and allergies.
To summarise, not all bathroom wall panels are waterproof. To find those that are, you should look for a waterproof material like PVC, along with a simple installation process, ideally one which you can do yourself to keep costs down.
In terms of importance, these criteria are pretty much non-negotiable. Wall panels that aren’t waterproof could lead to damp and mould, plus a range of subsequent structural problems and health issues.
If you want to take the guesswork out of bathroom wall coverings, Igloo Surfaces has the ideal solution. All our bathroom wall panels are completely waterproof thanks to their high-quality PVC composition. Panels come with a 10-15 year guarantee, depending on the panel you choose. That’s topped off with easy installation, including step-by-step guides and a dedicated helpline for any queries.
Ready to get started? Take a look at our full bathroom wall panel collection, including a plethora of delightful styles. From marble- and wood-effect panels to stunning colours, unique designs and scenic images, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in our collection. So, your bathroom wall panels will look the part as well as being waterproof.
Compared to tiles, wall panels are much more low maintenance. But that’s not all there is to wall panels. Thanks to their size, they allow you to cover a bigger area without any complications. On top of that, they’re extremely easy to install, whereas fitting in tiles can be an absolute pain.
So, it’s really no surprise that more and more people are starting to install wall panels in their bathrooms. But what kind of panelling can be used in a bathroom? Read on as we explore the different kinds of panelling – and whether they’re suitable for your bathroom.
Glass panels are a good option for homeowners who value having a well-lit room over practicality. They are often used in rooms without big windows in order to make the most out of the scarce daylight coming in.
No, they can’t. Glass panels are suitable for partition walls and even furniture – but never for a room as demanding as a bathroom. With the constant splashes and smears, it would be nigh-on impossible to keep your glass panels looking clean in your bathroom. Not to mention that you’d need a good wall covering behind them to complete the look.
Natural wood panels are a great option for homeowners looking to conjure a rustic atmosphere in their homes. They’re usually used in living rooms and dining rooms, usually accompanied by a good selection of house plants. If you want to transform your living room into a remote cabin, natural wood panels might be your best choice. But – will they do the trick as bathroom wall panels as well?
The answer is a clear “no”. Although many interior decoration retailers sell natural wood panels for bathrooms, the truth is that this is a recipe for disaster. Wood rots easily in the presence of moisture, so your bathroom wall panels would start falling down eventually.
MDF stands for medium density fibreboard, and it’s a wood-based material comprised of miniscule fibres jointed together by synthetic resin adhesive. Because they don’t require perfect cuts of natural hard or soft wood, MDF panels are a lot more affordable, which make them a great wall panelling option for families on a budget.
Unfortunately, no. MDF panels are still primarily made of wood, which doesn’t get on that well with water – particularly when it’s being constantly exposed to it. If you put MDF panels in your bathroom, it won’t take long for them to rot.
Sometimes called fabric panels, these kinds of panels can be made from many different materials – such as leather, velvet or even cotton. But here comes the caveat – fabric panels are actually wood panels covered with foam – which is in turn padded with fabric.
There’s a long list of reasons why fabric panels are unsuitable for your bathroom. Practically every element that makes them up – the fabric, foam and wood – would absorb water, creating the perfect environment for moisture and mould.
PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, and it’s a synthetic polymer of plastic. Thanks to its waterproof features, it’s used for pretty much everything these days – from cable insulation to car seat coverings. And that also includes wall panels. Back when they were first invented, PVC panels were fairly plain and unstylish. But thanks to the wonders of technology, these days you can buy PVC wall panels of all kinds of styles – such as faux wood and tile effects.
Yes! In fact, PVC panels are the best option available for bathroom wall coverings. Because they are completely waterproof, PVC panels will immediately repel any water droplets falling on their surface. On top of that, they’ll also avoid moisture from growing beneath them.
And there are even more reasons why you should install PVC panels in your bathroom. Here are a few of them.
Most PVC wall panels are tongue-and-groove – meaning they can be installed in a matter of minutes without grouting or drilling holes. In fact, plenty of retailers even offer PVC bathroom panels as part of a DIY kit so you can install them yourself.
Unlike tiles or other kinds of wall panels, PVC bathroom panels have a life expectancy of up to 20 years. This is partially thanks to their waterproof features, but also because of their hard-wearing and scratch-resistant surface. If you make the switch to PVC wall panels, you won’t have to redecorate your bathroom every few years.
If you’re a big interior design fan who needs every colour and shape in your home to match, you’ll be happy to learn that PVC wall panels aren’t just suitable for bathrooms. For example, they’re also often used in kitchens, as they tend to be humid spaces too.
And because PVC panels now come in a wide array of different styles, more and more homeowners are even decorating their living rooms and bedrooms with them.
Looking to design a stylish and modern bathroom that is also highly practical? Then look no further than PVC wall panels. As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of PVC panels, Igloo Surfaces offers top-of-the-range bathroom wall panels in various colours and designs. And all at an affordable price!
At Igloo Surfaces, we pride ourselves on helping our customers design the bathroom of their dreams. And that’s precisely why we’ve put together step-by-step wall panel installation guides to help you install your panels with minimal hassle.
If you have any questions regarding any of our products, please feel free to call our team on 01709 329117 or email us at [email protected].
Wall panels or shower panels? That is the question on many people’s minds. And it’s not an easy one to answer. But fortunately, we’re here to help you make an informed decision on your wall décor. Both shower panels and regular wall panels have become increasingly popular over the years. But what exactly sets them apart? Let’s find out…
Shower panels are flat wall panels which have been designed specifically for the walls around (and possible the ceiling above) your shower area. With that environment in mind, they are always waterproof – or at least they should be!
Shower panels come in a wide range of designs and sizes, but they’re almost exclusively made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). That’s simply because this material offers superb water-resistance without impacting the cost.
On the other hand, wall panels cover a much broader range of products. They can be made from wood, MDF, PVC and glass or even upholstered with fabric. Originally, they were used as a simple way to conceal walls, due to crumbling plaster or rising damp.
However, they have now become a sought-after look in their own right – with many people using them on walls that are in a near-perfect condition. They can be used throughout the home to add texture to previously flat walls.
While many modern wall panels aren’t known for their function, the term does also cover insulation panels. These are made from insulative materials like foam or cork, which can be fitted to a wall to prevent heat passing through.
Another very functional offering are bathroom wall panels. These are a specific variety of wall panels, similar to shower panels, which can be used in bathroom environments. They’re generally made from PVC, making them completely resistant to water and humidity.
The first difference is where these two types of panels can be used. As the name suggests, shower panels are suitable for around and above your shower. They’re waterproof, so they will protect your walls and ceiling from splashes and humidity.
In contrast, the room you use wall panels for will depend on which type of panels you purchase. You can indeed find bathroom wall panels which are waterproof and suitable for humid environments. The same is true for kitchen wall panels, which are water-resistant.
Beyond that, they can also be used throughout the home purely for aesthetics. Wooden panels are particularly popular at the moment for adding depth to your design – just make sure that’s not in high-moisture environments where they’re not fit for purpose.
As we’ve touched upon, wall panels can vary massively in their appearance, due to them being made from a range of different materials. Glass wall panels are particularly decorative, being used to reflect light within a room. In contrast, wooden wall panels offer a choice of both modern and traditional styles.
As for shower panels, they have the same basic design, which is a flat, smooth surface. However, that water-resistant surface can be produced in all kinds of different styles, from black marble to water droplet effects. It's worth noting, that this can also apply to wall panels, but only those for bathrooms and kitchens!
Function-wise, it’s easy to differentiate between shower panels and the broad category of wall panels. Shower panels are solely focused on water-resistance. They stop water getting at the walls around your shower and aren’t affected by the room’s humidity.
As discussed, wall panels can offer the same qualities if they’re made from PVC. However, in many cases, they are purely aesthetic – though they can also be insulative in the case of foam panels or cladding.
The installation process for wall panels depends entirely on which kind of panels you’re working with. One thing that’s common is that panels are sold separately, so you need to measure your space and decide how many panels are required – as well as cutting them down.
On the flipside, shower panels often come as kits. Shower panel kits include everything you need to fit them, including two or three panels, trims, caps, sealants and adhesives. That makes them ideal for covering the space around a shower. However, if you want to cover a larger area, like your whole bathroom, then waterproof wall panels are the better option.
To sum up, the difference between wall panels and shower panels is largely semantic. Wall panels are a broad category which can be waterproof and used in the bathroom, while shower panels are a very specific type of wall panel which is always waterproof and always used in the bathroom.
Looking solely at bathroom wall panels vs shower panels, the difference comes down to size and numbers. Shower panels are used for the area around your shower, whereas bathroom wall panels can be used for the entire bathroom.
If you’re looking to redecorate your bathroom with wall panels, you’ll simply need to make sure they’re the right kind of wall panels – using PVC rather than any of the other materials.
If you’re looking to breathe new life into your home, wall panels offer a lot of variety for every room. When it comes to the bathroom, PVC wall panels and shower panel kits have you covered.
At Igloo Surfaces, we have an amazing collection of panels and kits that are waterproof, durable, and easy to install. Even better, they come with a guarantee of 10-20 years, so you can rest assured they’ll stand the test of time in your bathroom.
And if you have any questions about our products, don’t worry. All you need to do is to call our team on 01709 329117 or email us at [email protected]. Just let us know what your requirements are, and we’ll give you the best advice you can get!
You might have noticed that more and more houses are being decorated with wall panels. Want to know why? They’re stylish, durable, easy to install, cost-effective – the list goes on. But are they suitable for your bathroom? In this post, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of bathroom wall panels and whether they’re a practical option for your home.
The term ‘wall panel’ refers to a wide range of products that are used to cover walls. Wall panels are flat and can be cut into specific shapes – usually rectangles. Originally, wall panels were created to conceal construction flaws while providing insulation and protection from damp. However, it didn’t take long for interior designers to unveil the hidden decorative potential of wall panels.
Nowadays, wall panels have become a popular decorating alternative for homeowners all over the world. But with so many different types of wall panels, it can be hard to choose which one to go for. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together this list detailing the different types of wall panels currently available in the market. Let’s have a look…
Lightweight and easy to fit, natural wood panels can make any space feel warmer and classier. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. To start with, wood is not moisture-resistant – meaning it can lead to damp and mould growth. On top of that, natural wood is very expensive. If you’re on a budget, you might want to look elsewhere.
Medium density fibreboard (MDF) is a wood-based material where wood fibres are bonded with a synthetic resin adhesive. This makes MDF panels more stable and flexible than natural wood. Because MDF is very cheap to produce, MDF panels can be a good alternative for homeowners who can’t afford natural wood panels. The drawback? Just like the wood panels that it replicates, MDF panels will quickly rot in the presence of moisture.
Also known as fabric wall panels, upholstered panels come in different materials – from natural fabrics to leather and velvet. In a nutshell, they’re wood panels that are padded with foam and covered with fabric. While they allow you to choose from a wide range of different styles, upholstered panels are wood panels at their core – meaning they don’t cope very well with moisture.
If your main goal is to have a well-lit room, you might want to look into glass panels. There are many different types that you can choose from – from clear and stained glass to lacquered and frosted glass panels. But be careful – glass absorbs heat, so your living room could easily become a stuffy greenhouse in the summer months.
Last but not least, we’ve got PVC panels. In the past few years, PVC wall panels have become one of the most popular decorating options for homeowners all over the world. PVC (which stands for polyvinyl chloride) is a versatile synthetic polymer of plastic with wildly different applications – from water pipes and clothing to, of course, wall panels.
But why is PVC so widely used? In a nutshell, it’s because it is completely waterproof. Thanks to their waterproof features, PVC wall panels are extremely strong and durable – making them a great wall décor alternative for all kinds of homes.
Time to answer the question on everyone’s minds – “can you put wall panels in a bathroom?”. The short and sweet answer is yes – you can decorate your bathroom walls with wall panels as you would do with any other room. However, there are a few caveats that you need to contend with.
Basically, not all wall panels are suitable for bathrooms. This is because bathrooms are humid environments. As water droplets are constantly released into the air, moisture and condensation become a force to reckon with. And it’s not just about misty mirrors and limescale stains on walls. If not dealt with properly, moisture and condensation will inevitably lead to mouldy walls.
So, how can you make sure that your wall panels don’t attract moisture? By installing bathroom wall panels are made of the right material – and that is PVC. In fact, we’ll take it a step further. It’s not that you can put PVC wall panels in your bathroom – it’s that you should. Here’s why…
We could spend hours talking about the benefits that PVC wall panels can bring to your bathroom. But instead, we’ll keep it short – these are the three biggest benefits of having PVC bathroom wall panels.
As good-looking as tiles can be, they’re basically moisture magnets. And do you know what happens when moisture begins to accumulate behind tiles? That mould makes a surprise appearance. And because mould can grow inadvertently behind tiling, you won’t notice it’s there – until the smell penetrates the tiles and/or the tiles fall.
Sounds like a nightmare, right? Well, fortunately, it’s one that you don’t have to deal with if you put PVC wall panels instead. Because they’re completely waterproof, PVC panels repel moisture instead of attracting it.
“Stylish!? But I thought the biggest downside of wall panels is that they didn’t look as good as tiles?” Well, we urge you to think again. While it’s true that the first commercialised PVC bathroom wall panels weren’t particularly easy on the eye, things have changed greatly in recent years.
Nowadays, you can purchase PVC wall panels in an increasingly wide array of styles – from Greco-Roman classic marble panels that will make you feel like you’re inside a premium sauna to a metallic graphite panel with a more modern edge.
Unlike tiles, PVC wall panels don’t require any grouting when installed. In fact, bathroom wall panels are tongue and groove – just like a jigsaw puzzle, but bigger. Because PVC panels fit seamlessly with each other, there’s not enough space for dirt to accumulate between them.
Want to give your bathroom a makeover but don’t know where to begin? If you ask us, having fresh new walls is always a good starting point. And at Igloo Surfaces, we’ve got just the thing – a wide range of PVC bathroom wall panels that you can even fit on top of your current bathroom tiles.
Don’t worry if you’re not the best at DIY. Our panels are so easy to install they don’t even require professional installation. In fact, you can even purchase them as a kit that includes all the necessary materials – saving you time and money!
Want to know more? Just call our team on 01709 329117 or email us at [email protected]. Our expert team is always on hand to help!
Unfortunately, they also come with their fair share of disadvantages. To start with, a full-bathroom tile installation can be incredibly challenging – particularly if you’re set on doing it yourself instead of paying a professional. As well as a wide arsenal of tools, you’ll also need mortar and grout to complete the installation. Not only is installing tiles very labour-intensive, but it can also get quite expensive.
But the worst thing about ceramic tile showers is how high maintenance they are. Simply put, it doesn’t take long for them to look worn. The grout joining the tiles attracts a lot of dirt – which can become mould if it’s not taken care of. And trust us – taking care of it is an absolute pain. If you want to keep your bathroom tiles mould-free, you’ll have to clean every nook and cranny with a very small brush on a weekly basis.
Is that how you want to spend your Sunday mornings? Probably not. So, what can you put on your bathroom walls instead of tiles? Let’s have a look…
Looking for tile alternatives for your bathroom walls but aren’t sure what to go with? Read on as we break down the main pros and cons of every alternative…
Paint is by far the cheapest way of giving your bathroom walls a makeover. But as you can imagine, not all kinds of paint work for bathroom walls. You have two different options – water-resistant paint and waterproof paint. The former is cheaper but not entirely waterproof – meaning you’ll have to replace it fairly often. On the other hand, the latter is completely waterproof and often includes mould-resistant primers to make it more durable.
That being said, even the best kind of waterproof paint for bathroom walls will start to deteriorate and peel after a few months. Painting your bathroom walls can be a decent, cheap short-term alternative for people who want to make improvements on the house they’re currently renting. But if you’re a homeowner and want your tile alternative to last, we strongly advise you to stay away from bathroom paint.
Wallpaper can seem like an affordable tile alternative for home-owners keen on giving their bathrooms a strongest character. With bold patterns and colourful prints, wallpaper offers a wide array of customisation options for bathroom walls. On top of that, it’s also a lot cheaper than tiling. But what are the cons?
We’ll start by addressing the elephant in the room – yes, wallpaper gets wet. And yes, lingering humidity turns into lingering moisture and mould. This can cause wallpaper to peel, as it’s not designed to fend off water and steam. Worst of all, chances are that you won’t even notice that your bathroom walls are getting mouldy, as it’s all happening behind the wallpaper. It’s only when the wallpaper starts peeling that you’ll realise there’s a nasty surprise waiting for you.
Unless you’re desperate to decorate your bathroom walls with quirky prints, stay away from wallpaper. Fortunately, there are better tile alternatives in the market.
More and more homeowners are deciding to adorn their bathrooms with PVC bathroom panels instead of tiles. Want to know why? To start with, PVC bathroom panels are completely waterproof. Unlike tiles, you don’t depend on the grouting surrounding them to fend water off. Because the surface of PVC bathroom panels is completely impermeable, it will never be affected by water.
On top of that, these bathroom panels are designed to fit together seamlessly. This means that not even the smallest water droplet will get between them. It also means that installing them is a lot easier – and cheaper – than tiling an entire bathroom wall. In some cases, you can even fit them over existing tiles, saving you time and money.
The verdict is in – it’s hard to see anything better than PVC bathroom panels from the tile alternatives currently available. Now, let’s take a deeper dive into their benefits…
It’s fair to say that PVC bathroom panels have revolutionised the bathroom design industry. And it’s all thanks to polyvinyl chloride – an incredibly versatile material that offers many different applications – from making window frames and bathroom panels to footwear and packaging.
We could spend hours talking about the benefits that PVC bathroom panels have brought to the table. Instead, we’ll keep it short and sweet – these are our three favourite advantages of PVC bathroom panels.
The received wisdom around PVC bathroom panels is that they’re more convenient than tiles but they don’t look as good. Well, not anymore. While it’s true that the first PVC panels ever made were quite sober and plain, technology has advanced so much that PVC panelling now looks as good as tiling. If you don’t believe us, check out this stylish black marble panel or this modern graphite panel.
One of the worst things about tiles is that you have to get down on your knees and scrub at grout every other week. With PVC bathroom panels, those days are over. Because PVC panels are installed with no (or minimal) grouting, water doesn’t accumulate between the panels – hence the elimination of moisture and mould.
From cutting tiles to shape to grouting them, tiling a bathroom wall is a painstaking task that usually requires professional help. Fortunately, this isn’t the case with PVC panels. PVC panels are usually tongue and groove, so they barely require any additional sealing or grouting. In fact, you can even install them yourself with an all-in-one panel kit.
Looking for a tile alternative that will make your bathroom look as good as new? Then look no further than PVC bathroom wall panels. At Igloo Surfaces, we stock a wide range of PVC panels suited to shower cubicles, bathroom walls or bath surrounds. Want to hear more? Just ring us on 01709 329117 or email [email protected] for expert advice.
Given how high-maintenance ceramic tile is, it’s no wonder that many homeowners have decided to go with shower wall panels instead. Why? It’s simple. To start with, wall panels are extremely easy to install – so much so that they can be fitted directly on top of existing tiles. And because they barely require grouting, shower wall panels can easily fend off moisture and mould.
You might have also heard that shower wall panels are completely waterproof. But does that mean they’re completely leak-proof? Let’s find out…
Shower wall panels have two main advantages over tiles – they last a lot longer and they don’t require as much maintenance. That’s because, unlike tiles, shower panels don’t have grout joins that absorb moisture. So, in theory, your shower wall panel shouldn’t leak. Any high-quality shower panel should be completely non-porous and repel all water droplets coming toward it.
But sometimes things aren’t what they seem on paper. As shower wall panels take over the bathroom decoration sector, some people have complained about water leaking from their panels. Why is this happening? The most plausible answer is that it’s a combination of several factors – from faulty installations to subpar material. Let’s dig deeper into the matter…
After exhaustive research, we have identified the two most common causes of leaks in shower wall panels.
It’s true that shower wall panels are a lot easier to install than tiles. In fact, many homeowners install their panels themselves without asking a professional installer for help. However, that doesn’t mean that you can fit your shower wall panels however you like. As with any product, you should always strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Most shower wall panels in the market are tongue and groove – meaning they fit together like jigsaw pieces without needing to be grouting. Unfortunately, certain installers believe that grouting bathroom panels will make them more resilient. In reality, this will only make them more prone to leaking.
As it always happens with booming industries, many companies are jumping on the shower panel bandwagon with no prior experience in bathroom decoration. A quick online search reveals that there are plenty of retailers selling shower panels without actually specifying the materials that they are made of. Suffice to say, this is a big red flag.
A quality shower panel should always be made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). One of the most widely used polymers in the world, PVC is the material that grants shower panels their waterproof and insulating qualities. Unfortunately, some manufacturers save money by using PVC replicas instead of the real thing. In all fairness, you might not notice the difference with some other products. But PVC alternatives are a recipe for disaster for a shower panel whose main goal is to fend off water.
So far, we’ve seen why certain shower wall panels can’t actually repel water. Now, it’s time for some constructive advice – this is how you can make sure that your shower panels never leak.
Remember that the biggest selling point of shower wall panels is their convenience. If your shower panel is giving you a headache, it’s very likely that something has gone wrong somewhere along the way. But don’t worry if this is the case. We’re here to help with a simple, three-step guide that will help you ensure that your shower panels never leak.
It can be tempting to favour style over substance and choose shower panels that you like the look of, even if they’re not PVC. But let’s make this clear. If your shower wall panels aren’t PVC, you might as well put some old newspaper over your bathroom walls and pray that it doesn’t leak.
When it comes to choosing the material for your wall panels, always go for 100% PVC – no substitutes, no replicas, no 99%. And if style is what you’re after, you’ll be happy to learn that PVC shower panels now come in a wide range of designs – from tile-like marble effect to industrial copper effect.
This is by far the most common mistake made by homeowners dipping their toes into the world of bathroom wall panels. Because they’re used to grouting tiles, they’ll also add a little bit of grout to their shower panels believing this will make them more water-resistant. Nothing could be further from the truth. Because it picks up moisture and debris, grout is actually the cause of most water leaks that originate in bathroom walls.
But be careful. Some PVC shower panels do actually require minimal grouting. If in doubt, just follow the manufacturer’s instructions and you’ll always be on the safe side.
There’s a reason why it’s highly recommended that you learn how to install your shower panels yourself even if you can afford to pay for an installer. And that reason is that they are extremely easy to install. So, if you have chosen a shower panel that only requires a couple of additional materials, you’re on the right path – it generally means that it’s high-quality.
These days, many retailers sell their shower panels as part of a kit including all the materials you need to fit them. If you can, get your hands on one of these. It will ensure that you make no mistakes with the installation, as you won’t be wondering whether you need any additional material.
Looking for some high-quality shower wall panels to redecorate your bathroom? At Igloo Surfaces, we stock PVC shower wall panels in every imaginable style. And because they’re all completely waterproof and easy to install, you’ll never have to deal with a leak. Want to find out more about our range of shower panels? All you need to do is call us on 01709 329117 or email [email protected].
There is one big question that all homeowners must face when redecorating their bathroom – tiles or panels? For many years, the sweet and simple answer was “tiles”. But things have changed. Technology has evolved, allowing us to produce PVC bathroom wall panels that have plenty of benefits over tiles.
For example, bathroom wall panels are a lot easier to install. They are usually tongue and groove panels – just like a jigsaw but a lot easier to put together. And unlike tiles, they’re completely waterproof. In turn, this makes them much more durable. Tiles might look good when you first fit them, but it doesn’t take long for the grouting in-between them to look worn. With a bathroom panel, your walls will always look just as new.
A verdict has been reached – bathroom wall panels are far more modern and convenient than tiles. But are they cheaper? Let’s break the costs of each decorating method down…
We can all agree that tiles can be very easy on the eye thanks to their intricate patterns. But are they as easy on the wallet? Not quite, as it turns out. Of course, the cost of tiling a bathroom depends on a range of different factors – from the products you use to the size of the bathroom. But tiling is costly, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
With most UK tile retailers, the least expensive tile will cost you around £25 per square metre. If you want to give your bathroom a bit more personality, be ready to pay around £45 per square meter. You also need to add the cost of the extra materials you need for the installation, such as grout and adhesive. These additional materials will probably cost you around £50 for a medium-sized bathroom.
So far, we’ve only covered the cost of the materials themselves. But what about the installation? Here’s where things get ugly…
On average, you can expect your professional installer to charge you at least £50 per square metre. This means that tiling a small bathroom will cost you between £750 and £1,150 – depending on the materials used and the bathroom design. And for a medium-to-large bathroom, this can easily go up to £2,000.
Sure, you could just tile your bathroom yourself. But will you be able to make all of your tiles align perfectly? Probably not. And remember that tiles are fairly high maintenance. With time, water will make your old grout grow mouldy – meaning you’ll need to remove it and replace it with new grout every few years.
Bathroom tiles may be pretty, but they sure don’t come for free. So, is installing a bathroom wall panel any cheaper?
The answer is a resounding yes. And there are many reasons why…
First of all, bathroom wall panels are significantly bigger than tiles. This means that they’re easier and cheaper to mass-produce. To make things better, they are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a strong and light material that is extremely cost-effective.
Does that mean that wall panels are made with poor-quality materials? Not at all. As well as being completely mould and mildew-proof, PVC can be light and soft to the touch. In fact, good PVC panelling can look just as good as tiling – if not better. From classy driftwood ash finishes to a chic pink look, there is a style of wall panel for every bathroom.
Regarding the installation costs, wall panels also have the upper hand. Read on as we break down the numbers…
You can install wall panels in a small bathroom for less than £300 – about three times cheaper than with tiling. But why is there such a big difference? Let us explain.
When it comes to tiling a bathroom, DIY is strongly advised against. Making dozens of tiles seamlessly align is not just something that you’re born knowing – it takes years of experience. And even if you make it look good, a shoddy tiling job can easily result in excess damp and mould.
But with bathroom panels, all these worries are washed away – quite literally.
Compared to tiling, installing a bathroom panel is extremely simple – so much so that DIY is highly recommended no matter what your budget is. Most panels are tongue and groove, so they barely require any additional sealing or grouting. In the rare scenario where they need additional sealing, this can be done in a matter of minutes. You can even save time and money and order your panel alongside an all-in-one installation kit that includes everything you need to upgrade your bathroom.
Another key advantage of wall panels is that they’re a lot more flexible. You can even cut them to size to suit your bathroom’s dimensions. And unlike tiles, you can do this with ordinary woodwork tools.
On top of that, bathroom panels are a lot more cost-effective long-term. Why? It’s simple – no grout, no mould. Because of their PVC material, bathroom wall panels are completely waterproof. All you need to do is wipe them down once in a while and they’ll last for ages. This will be a welcome change for homeowners tired of re-grouting their tiles only for them to get mouldy again after a few months.
If you’re looking to renovate your bathroom, you’ve got two options. You can either spend thousands of pounds on tiles that will need re-grouting every few months – or install stylish waterproof wall panels for a few hundred. If you ask us, it’s a no-brainer.
At Igloo Surfaces, we’ve got a wide array of PVC bathroom wall panels to transform the look of your bathroom. From tile effect marmo panels to luxurious grey marble panels, our PVC bathroom panels are completely waterproof, hard wearing and easy to install. And if you still need help with the installation, don’t worry. Our team is more than happy to provide expert advice. Just ring us on 01709 329117 or email [email protected].
When it comes to decorating a bathroom, nothing beats a good wall panel. Apart from coming in a wide range of styles, bathroom wall panels are extremely convenient. Why? It’s simple. Unlike tiles, bathroom wall panels are completely hardwearing and waterproof – making them extremely durable. On top of that, wall panels are much bigger than tiles, meaning there’s barely any need for grouting and can be installed without help from a professional.
It’s no wonder so many people are choosing to install bathroom wall panels instead of tiles. But with so many styles and sizes available, it can be hard to choose the perfect wall panel. And because bathroom wall panels come in kits, figuring out how many pieces you need to cover all your bathroom walls can seem like a tricky task.
But don’t despair – we’re here to help. At Igloo Surfaces, we have put together a helpful guide to the different sizes of bathroom wall panels.
We’ll start with the basics. Most bathroom wall panels in the UK measure 2,400mm long x 1,000mm wide x 10mm thick. It’s fairly easy to calculate how many panels you need to cover your bathroom wall. Once you have measured your wall, all you have to do is to divide its width by the width of your panels.
To give you a general idea, the average ceiling height for a home in the UK is 240cm – about 7.87ft long. That being said, some modern homes have slightly lower ceilings. Whatever the case, it’s relatively easy to cut your panels to size – take a look at our guide.
2,400mm x 1,000mm x 10mm is the standard size that you’ll find in most brick-and-mortar retailers in the UK. However, that’s not to say that it’s the only one – nor that it’s the right size for every bathroom. Let’s have a look at a few more…
Some homeowners prefer to go with thin bathroom wall panels instead of the standard size. There is a simple reason why – they maximise space. Easier to cut and fit than the average wall panel, thinner wall panels can be joined like a jigsaw. But be careful. Because they are around four times thinner than the average wall panel, thin panels aren’t hollow. This means that you can’t just fit them like tongue and groove panels. With this kind of panel, you need to apply seal tape around the edge of each panel. Not only will this ensure a smoother finish, but it will make your bathroom wall a lot safer.
Usually, thinner bathroom wall panels are 2.5mm thick, such as the oasis panel or a Statue of Liberty scene panel. They are often longer and wider than the standard panels as well. A standard thin bathroom wall panel is 2,400mm long x 1,220mm wide x 2.5mm thick. They can come individually or in kits of two or more. Due to their lightness, they are very easy to install and can be fitted vertically or horizontally.
Wider bathroom wall panels are currently in vogue for use in shower cubicles because they provide an added layer of insulation and offer further protection from penetration of moisture. Apart from that, wider panels provide greater coverage – and in turn a more seamless finish.
The average size of a wider bathroom wall panel is 2,500mm x 1,220mm x 2.5mm. Like their thinner counterpart, these bathroom panels cannot be fitted with a tongue and groove system – meaning you will have to apply seal tape.
But don’t worry – that’s not to say that they’re hard to install. In fact, you can purchase your panel as part of a shower kit that includes all the materials you need for the installation. Even if you’re not a DIY expert, you’ll be able to install these panels in a jiffy.
If your home has a higher ceiling, don’t worry. You can still purchase a bathroom wall panel that covers every single centimetre of your bathroom wall. These panels are slightly longer and thinner than the average size. They measure 2,650mm x 250mm x 8mm. Usually sold in packs of four, their design is evenly spread across every panel for a better end result. They also feature a tongue and groove system, meaning they’re extremely easy to apply.
When it comes to longer wall panels, one of the most popular options is a tile effect. As their name suggests, tile effect wall panels imitate the feeling of bathroom tiles – but with all the advantages of a panel. That means that they’re as durable, leakproof and waterproof as any other kind of wall panel. They just happen to look like tiles!
If this kind of panel tickles your fancy, we’d suggest the Carrara Decor Tile Effect Panel. Its classic style goes particularly well with vintage bathroom décor, which is very much in vogue at the moment. And if you’re after something a bit more modern, try the Graphite Small Tile Effect Panels. It will make your bathroom look like it’s been taken brick by brick from a Hilton suite.
Do you want to have a mould-free, durable bathroom? All you need to do is install some PVC bathroom wall panels. Unlike tiles, they’re waterproof, durable, cost-effective and extremely easy to clean. Even better, they come in many different sizes. At Igloo Surfaces, we’ve got a wide range of PVC bathroom wall panels that will immediately upscale your bathroom décor.
Don’t worry if you’re no DIY expert. You can purchase our panels as part of a kit that comes with everything you need for an easy installation. Want a helping hand to guide you through the installation process? You can call our team for advice on 01709 329117 or email [email protected]. We’re more than happy to help!
