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From paint to decorative panels, there are lots of options out there. To help you find your perfect décor, we’ve put together a list of the top bathroom design trends for 2021. We can’t think of a better way to ring in the new year than with a brand-new bathroom that would look at home in a magazine!
Sleek but certainly not boring, geometric patterns will be one of 2021’s hottest bathroom design trends. Ranging from the regular rectangles of our Carrara décor tile effect panel to patterns that feature contrasting sizes and shapes, this trend is a great way to add interest to your walls without adding an overwhelming design.
Feature walls have found their way into every room of the house – and our bathrooms are no exception. A feature wall is a different colour or design from the rest of the room, creating a stand-out look that enhances the rest of your décor.
This could be as simple as painting one wall a striking shade. However, why not explore our range of stunning scenic panels, such as a waterfall? The ideal way to bring a touch of the exotic to the everyday, our hardwearing panels will transport you to your dream destination while protecting your walls from damage.
We all like to feel close to nature. Its soothing properties are especially relaxing in a bathroom, so it’s no surprise that natural finishes are one of the biggest bathroom trends for 2021.
Marble, travertine, copper – at Igloo Surfaces, many of our wall panels have been inspired by the natural world. We’ve chosen shades and finishes that complement any style, combining the natural beauty of stone with the practicality (and affordability) of PVC.
If you prefer a more urban look, the good news is that industrial finishes are also a top trend for 2021. Think exposed lighting, grey tones, and upcycled hardware.
Our grey concrete wall panel is the perfect way to introduce the industrial trend to your bathroom. Basically as hardwearing as the real thing, these panels are beautifully textured with a wonderful variety of grey tones that is sure to add depth to your décor.
Find your perfect bathroom wall panels
Whether you prefer to follow the trends or set them, Igloo Surfaces can provide the bathroom wall panels to help you achieve the best results. Our range includes a wide variety of colours, styles, and textures – all of which will keep your walls safe and dry beneath.
100% waterproof and easy to clean with a damp cloth, our complete range of bathroom and shower panels are just waiting to be explored. If you would like to find out more about our collections, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on 01709 329117.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through some of the most popular materials for bathroom floors to help you discover the perfect one for your home.
What are the most popular materials for bathroom floors?
The most popular materials for bathroom floors are:
How can you choose the right material for you?
The right choice of bathroom material for you will ultimately depend on three factors:
For example, engineered wood might look beautiful, but it won’t be the best material for you if you have young children who splash in the bath or an elderly relative who could slip over when it’s wet. It can also be very expensive.
Another key factor to consider is your home heating system. Ceramic tiles, stone, or concrete can become incredibly cold if you don’t have underfloor heating. This can make trips to the bathroom in winter feel a little icy!
Why choose vinyl flooring for your bathroom?
At Igloo Surfaces, we believe the best – and most versatile – material for your bathroom floor is vinyl. This flooring promises a high-quality finish with none of the fuss required to fit tiling, wood, or stone.
Vinyl is suitable for every style
Do you want a natural oak finish without having to worry about the cost of fitting (and maintaining) engineered wood? Our collection of vinyl flooring contains something to suit every style. With an appearance that looks as good as the real thing, our wood and copper slate effect floors are the perfect way to achieve a natural finish without any of the drawbacks associated with the genuine materials.
If you prefer a bolder style, why not check out our simplex black sparkle vinyl flooring? The sister of our best-selling sparkle wall panels, this floor is sure to add shine to any bathroom.
Vinyl is safe and comfortable
Our vinyl flooring has a high level of slip resistance, making it ideally suited to high-traffic areas. Vinyl is also much softer and warmer underfoot than natural alternatives.
Vinyl is cost-effect and hardwearing
At Igloo Surfaces, we’re proud to offer a 10-20 year guarantee on our vinyl flooring products. This long-lasting and cost-effective material can be a great investment, enduring a decade of wear and tear.
Vinyl is also water-resistant and couldn’t be easier to clean. Simply wipe your bathroom floors down with a wet, soapy cloth.
Find your perfect bathroom flooring today
Whatever your personal style, we have the vinyl flooring to complement it at Igloo Surfaces. Discover our full collection today to find the perfect style for your home.
If you have any questions about our flooring, give us a call on 01709 329117. A member of our team will be happy to help.
Did you know that PVC wall panels are a cost-effective alternative to tiles? Not only are they much more affordable (and simple) to install, but they are also 100% waterproof and can be much easier to clean.
In this post, we’ll explain the advantages and disadvantages of using tiles in your bathroom. Whether you’re replacing old tiling or decorating a room from scratch, we’ll help you decide whether tiles or wall panels are the perfect choice for you.
What are the advantages of using tiles?
It’s easy to see why tiles have been such an enduringly popular choice in our bathrooms. From their appearance to their practicality, there are many advantages to bathroom tiles. These include:
What are the disadvantages of using tiles?
If you’re wondering ‘do bathroom walls have to be tiled’, the answer is a resounding no. Although tiles are a popular choice, they aren’t suitable for everyone due to these key disadvantages:
Why choose PVC wall panels instead of tiles?
From decorative panels to sleek, block-colour shades, there are a range of wall panels to suit every style and budget. PVC panels combine fuss-free application with a beautiful finish. Here are the main reasons why you could consider choosing them for your home:
Find your perfect PVC wall panels today
If you’re ready to make the switch from tiles to PVC panels, we’re here for you. At Igloo Surfaces, we stock a wide range bathroom and shower panels that will help you achieve your dream style.
Discover our complete range of PVC wall panels today. Or contact our team on 01709 329117 for answers to any of your questions.
British homes traditionally feature tiling in their bathrooms. However, there are simpler and more cost-effective ways to upgrade your bathroom décor. That’s where PVC wall panels come in, but for many people, they’re still a relatively new concept.
The problem with this lesser-known option is that there are several misconceptions out there that can put people off. With that in mind, this post will dispel five myths about bathroom wall panels, to help you decide what’s best for your home.
Unfortunately, not all wall panels on the market boast the same quality as ours and some no doubt lack visual appeal. However, at Igloo Surfaces, our PVC wall panels are made from high-quality materials and are available in a range of designs and colours to suit every taste.
Our high-gloss panels mimic high-end back painted glass and our mock marble tiling creates a natural stone effect for a fraction of the cost. Better yet, as PVC panels require minimal grout, there’s far less chance of mould or discolouration over time!
Bathroom wall panelling is certainly a popular choice in commercial settings as it’s affordable and large areas can be covered in little time. However, as a low-maintenance, budget-friendly option which comes in a variety of styles, it’s becoming increasingly popular in domestic households too.
Tiling can sometimes win in terms of longevity. However, that only comes with regular maintenance and re-grouting to keep them looking good. Plus, a spotless finish really calls for a professional and installation isn’t cheap – at least £50 per square metre on average.
Instead, wall panels are a more economical, hard-wearing and fully waterproof option. Lightweight yet tough, we’re so confident in our panels that we guarantee them for at least 10 years.
Our bathroom wall panels are very versatile and are designed with standard UK ceiling heights in mind. They can be used in showers, as bath surrounds and to create striking feature walls. Our Arctic Infinity Range offers the most flexibility, with each design available in either 1, 2 and 3 panels, which can be cut to bespoke measurements to suit your needs.
Actually, wall panelling is one of the few parts of a new bathroom that can be installed by your average DIYer and is a great way to keep costs down. You’ll only need a few tools and materials to install the panels, many of which are included in our handy all-in-one shower kit.
What’s more, as panels can be attached to existing tiling, you can revamp your bathroom without a messy removal process. Watch our useful how-to videos or read our simple step-by-step guide to learn how to install your new bathroom wall panels with ease.
Time to stop listening to the myths and put bathroom wall panels to the test. At Igloo Surfaces, we offer a vast array of stunning wall panels for your bathroom, all water-resistant, low-maintenance and highly durable.
Take a look at our full range of bathroom wall panels online, or contact our team for more information on 01709 329117.
While the downstairs toilet may not be used very often, that doesn’t mean you should neglect it. As a room mostly used by visitors, it can leave a lasting impression on your guests. It’s also the perfect space for trying out a different style before using it in the rest your home – so why not make the most of it?
Read on as we look at a few small cloakroom toilet ideas to help maximise your space and add interest to the smallest room in your home.
With some downstairs toilets as small as 80cm x 140cm, clever storage solutions are vital. If floor space is at a premium, your best bet is either a small corner unit or to use your walls. A mirrored wall cabinet or some sleek shelving is a great way to add storage space while helping to keep the room airy. Alternatively, instead of blocking off the entire wall where the cistern and pipes are storied, create a clever boxed-in cupboard to store your bathroom essentials out of sight.
As we mentioned earlier, the smallest room in your home is the ideal place to experiment with new styles and colours. Add a splash of colour to the area behind your sink with an easy to install PVC wall panel. They’re fully waterproof, wipe clean and have minimal grouting.
Or, if you want to make a statement, why not create a feature wall? From scenic landscapes to mock brick effect panels, stunning PVC panels can help you create a cloakroom that your guests will be in awe of.
While this may be obvious, a compact toilet and rectangular or corner sink will help you make the most of the space you have. You’ll also need to carefully consider the fittings.
There’s no point choosing an impressive waterfall tap, for instance, if it’s likely to cause spillages when paired with a small basin. Instead, opt for unobtrusive fittings and save bolder designs for the main bathroom. Similarly, you might want to install a mounted heated towel rail instead of a standard radiator.
Downstairs toilets often don’t have a window and if they do, it’s probably only small. That’s why it’s crucial to install good lighting to avoid the room looking dingy and uninviting. Spotlights embedded into your ceiling will brighten up the room and give a contemporary finish, without compromising on ceiling height.
Vinyl flooring is a great option for areas prone to water splashes. It’s also more hygienic than many of the alternatives, as there’s zero wood content and no grouting which can harbour bacteria and become discoloured over time.
For a small room, try dark flooring with light coloured walls and ceilings to give the illusion of more space. Another option is to use the same colour on the walls and floor to create a seamless look and avoid visually cutting up the room.
Whether it’s the floor, walls or ceiling, PVC panels can help you turn even the smallest cloakroom toilet into a stylish and functional room.
If you need some installation tips, our helpful video guides are a great place to start. Or if you’ve got a particular question which isn’t covered in our FAQ section, our specialist team are on hand to help. Simply call on 01709 329117 or fill out our contact form and we’ll get back to you.
Bathrooms are one of the most important rooms in any home. They’re used multiple times every day, and can add serious value to your property. But how much does it cost if you want to overhaul your bathroom and go for something new?
In this post, we’ll breakdown the costs and give you some helpful tips on how to replace your dated bathroom on a budget.
Bathroom suites and installation costs vary greatly depending on the size of the room, the work that needs to be carried out and the time it will take.
According to an independent trade comparison site, the average cost of a basic to mid-range bathroom is anywhere between £2,750 and £6,500 in the UK. For premium ranges and bathrooms which require extensive remodelling, you can expect a price tag of at least £7,000.
Now, we realise that’s a big expense in the short-term. However, a new bathroom is a very worthwhile investment. Not only will it improve the look and feel of your home, but you could also add around 4-5% onto your property’s value.
Typically, a standard bathroom suite will set you back around £1,000. Average mid-range pricing includes:
Generally, this is where you can make the most savings when it comes to a new bathroom. However, if you decide to buy a budget suite, make sure you check the quality and that you choose decent fittings. Otherwise, you’ll end up paying twice as they’ll need replacing shortly after.
Before your new bathroom can be installed, the old one needs to be removed. Factoring in labour costs and skip hire, we recommend you budget at least £300 for this. To keep costs down, enlist the help of a friend and rip out the old suite yourselves – just be careful not to damage any pipes!
Although a popular option, tiling comes at a premium. Tiles are difficult and time-consuming to install unless you’re highly experienced and if not done properly, you could face damp problems down the line. To get it done right, a professional installer will cost you in the region of £800-£900.
More than you were hoping to pay? PVC wall panels are a great alternative. Fully waterproof and much more budget-friendly, durable bathroom wall panels can be used in showers, as splashbacks or as bath surrounds. You can even find useful how-to videos to learn how to install them yourself.
Bathroom fitters typically charge a day rate of £150 - £250. While a simple replacement can be done in as little as two days, you might want to consider the additional labour costs of an entire structural redesign. As long as the current layout works for you, it’s probably not worth changing.
Interestingly, flooring is often left out of bathroom installation quotes to keep them low. However, a new floor can make a big impact next to a white suite and will finish the room off to a high standard. Vinyl flooring works particularly well in bathrooms as it is hard-wearing, can withstand spillages and is highly slip-resistant.
If you want to cut the cost of your new bathroom without compromising one bit on style and quality, Igloo Surfaces is here to help. We stock a range of high-quality PVC panels for bathroom walls, floors and ceilings.
To help you decide which design and colour to go for, you can even get four samples for just £1! What are you waiting for? Fill out our simple form and start your new bathroom journey today.
Want to bring your bathroom up to date? The great news is you don’t need to be a designer to achieve a great finish. Here are six super stylish and easy-to-recreate design ideas to inspire your DIY bathroom makeover.
Monochrome has got to be one of the simplest designs out there. It’s timeless and creates real impact. The stark contrast between opposing colours creates a striking look without the need to be garish.
Add drama with a sparkly black feature wall and co-ordinating accessories on a crisp white backdrop. A gloss finish will add depth, mixing contrasting textures to keep things interesting.
If you love the outdoors, why not bring some of the outside in? At Igloo, our authentic wood effect wall panels are a great alternative to expensive panelling. Pair with trailing plants in hanging baskets to really mimic the feeling of showering outdoors amongst nature.
Alternatively, create a scenic feature wall with a stunning landscape wall panel. That way you can enjoy the view from the comfort of your bathtub over and over again.
Grey bathrooms are very on trend at the moment. They offer a sleek, contemporary feel that is effortlessly sophisticated. This versatile colour is available in a range of different hues and patterns, from soft mottled greys to sharp graphite effect tiling, and works well with any accent colour.
In smaller spaces, use large grey tiles and consider extending the same design across the walls and floor to create the illusion of more space. This works particularly well in stylish modern wet rooms.
Often seen in city lofts and urban living spaces, exposed brick work harks back to our industrial history and adds character to any room. However, stripping your walls right back requires a lot of work and can make rooms feel cold – not what you want in a bathroom.
Instead, you can recreate this look with authentic brick effect wall panels. Ideal for a feature wall, these 100% waterproof panels are easy to fit and will give your bathroom the wow factor. Pair with copper fittings to add to the vintage aesthetic.
Marble is known for its high-quality finish and luxury appeal. However, real marble tiles come at a price. To mimic this stylish design in your own bathroom minus the hefty price tag, try our realistic marble effect wall panels.
The distinctive pattern exudes opulence and adds texture to prevent neutral walls looking flat. Pair with warm natural oak-look flooring from our vinyl range, to complete the high-end finish for a fraction of the cost.
At Igloo, we supply a range of top quality bathroom wall panels to suit a variety of different tastes. Whatever look you’re going for, we can help you create the bathroom of your dreams without the hassle or expense of traditional tiling.
Need further assistance? Give us a call on 01709 329117 to discuss your project.
When fitting a new bathroom ceiling, it’s important that you choose the right material. As bathrooms are naturally prone to moisture, you can’t simply paint over porous plaster as you might in other rooms.
Not sure where to start? We’ve compiled a list of common bathroom ceiling materials to help you choose the best option for you.
Fibreglass is an inexpensive and water resistant material, frequently used in American bathrooms. This material can create an appealing ceiling in your bathroom and won’t sag over time due to its rigidity. It’s also non-combustible and comes in pre-cut panels to fit your space.
Unfortunately, however, fibreglass contains a formaldehyde binder which poses a health risk during installation. Its microfibres can penetrate dust masks and collect in your home, leading to respiratory problems. Specialist cleaning equipment is therefore needed to remove them and as such, fibreglass is best left to the experts rather than DIYers.
Tiles are popular in bathrooms thanks to the polished look they offer. They come in a variety of colours and materials, from ceramic to high end marble. Most commonly, bathroom tiles are positioned in areas most prone to water splashes thanks to their waterproof qualities.
However, when installing tiles you need to use a tile backer and completely seal any gaps between the tiles. If you don’t, moisture could seep through and cause a build up of mildew. The other issue is that tiling is very time-consuming and can become expensive if you’ve got a large area to cover.
Cement board is a strong and durable material, largely unaffected by moisture. Unlike other drywall materials, it does not swell or break down when wet. Because of this, it is often used as a protective backing material for tiling.
Despite this material’s composition, the biggest disadvantage of cement board is its weight. Due to this, it can be difficult to install on a ceiling without the help of experienced professionals. It also has a rough texture, so a smooth finish wouldn’t be instant.
Another alternative to standard drywall, is water-resistant green board. This material is coated in a thick paper protected by wax, to enable it to withstand steam in high humidity areas. However, it is not 100% waterproof so isn’t suitable for very wet areas.
Unfortunately, green board is also not as strong as standard drywall, despite being more expensive. To prevent it from sagging, it must be fastened to the wall every 12 inches, rather than the standard 16.
PVC panels are a simple, no fuss solution for your bathroom ceiling. This waterproof cladding is resistant to both mould and mildew, lightweight for easy installation and requires very little maintenance.
They’re also the most versatile option in terms of appearance. At Igloo, we stock a variety of modern, attractive designs to suit your décor. Our PVC panels are even more cost-effective than other ceiling materials and have been designed to stand the test of time.
At Igloo we supply top quality PVC ceiling panels at affordable prices. Whatever your style preference, we have a bathroom ceiling to suit you and all the materials you need to install it. Our PVC wall coverings even come with a 10 year guarantee!
The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in your home – not mention one of the most valuable when it comes to selling. That’s why so many people want to keep their bathroom looking fresh and modern.
But with all the porcelain, plumbing and pouring water, that can seem quite daunting. Fortunately, it’s easier than you think. Read on for four simple ways to give your bathroom a new lease of life on a budget.
Traditional tiling is expensive and looks pretty dated. Bathroom wall panels are a modern, hard-wearing and long-lasting alternative that won’t break the bank. They’re 100% waterproof, suitable for showers and bath surrounds, and can even be fitted over existing tiles to save time.
Best of all, they give you a lot more freedom when it comes to the look of your bathroom. Choose from natural timber- and stone look panels, a range of colours and patterns, or just clean white.
Showers are the focal point of many modern bathrooms. With that in mind, you can give your whole bathroom a new look simply by redecorating the shower. Again, this is an area where PVC wall panels can help.
With an all-in-one kit, you get everything you need to transform the walls around your shower, making it look like an entirely new installation. Add a marble effect for something a bit different or go for cool, clean aqua panels for a timeless bathroom look.
Bathrooms aren’t typically renowned for their storage. This can soon lead to your bathroom becoming cluttered with shower gels, towels and toilet rolls. In many cases, finding a home for these bathroom essentials can be enough to give it a new lease of life.
Thankfully, there are lots of budget-friendly options out there:
With all the drips, drops and wet feet, bathroom floors can become tired over time. Replacing your floor with a modern alternative is sometimes all it takes to transform the whole room. If you’re looking for something that’s affordable without compromising on quality and style, vinyl flooring is hard to beat.
Unlike tiles and wood floors, vinyl flooring comes in a variety of colours and patterns to suit your taste. Go as bold or as neutral as you’d like – either way you can expect a top-quality finish at an affordable price.
If you want to give your bathroom a new lease of life without breaking the bank, Igloo Surfaces can help. We provide state-of-the-art PVC wall panels, shower kits and flooring that combine longevity, style and performance at a great price.
To make sure you find the right products, we supply four samples for just £1. Better yet, our quality wall panels are guaranteed for at least 10 years, so you can rest assured that your money has been well spent.
