So, you’re refurbishing your kitchen. Or maybe you’re designing a new kitchen from scratch. In either case, wall cladding is a key element – for both function and aesthetics. It needs to be stylish, durable and practical without breaking the bank.

So, what are your options? Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best kitchen wall cladding ideas for you to choose from.

1.   Tiles

Ceramic tiles have been the go-to choice for kitchen walls for some time. They’re moisture-resistant, easy to clean and available in a wide range of styles. However, as time goes on – and new wall cladding options have become available – they’ve become quite dated in their appearance. Grouting is also a problem when it comes to cleaning tiles and they’re far from easy to install.

2.   Paint

You might think paint is unsuitable for kitchen walls, because of all the moisture it will encounter. And you would be right. However, plastic and acrylic paints provide an ideal solution. Unlike regular paint, they are resistant to moisture and mould build-up. But like regular paint, they come in a wide range of colours and are relatively affordable.

The downside? As we’ve all come to learn with paint, it can be a messy job, requiring multiple coats. And even the best moisture-proof paint isn’t going to be quite as durable as other wall coverings.

3.   Stone

Stone is a popular option for kitchens because of its unmatched natural beauty. A number of stone types are available – slate, marble and quartz to name just a few – each with their own natural gradients and patterns. It’s also naturally durable and easy to clean, making it ideal for the hard-wearing kitchen environment. Unfortunately, stone does not compete with other options in terms of cost-effectiveness.

4.   Metal

Stainless steel wall cladding is sometimes used in commercial kitchens because of its superb hygienic quality. Steel wipes clean easily, shows any stains and is completely resistant to moisture. The only downside is the appearance, which doesn’t usually fit in with the look of modern or traditional homes.

5.   PVC

PVC wall panels are a simple, stylish and cost-effective way to clad the walls in your kitchen. They have a modern look, with a range of colours to match any design scheme. Most importantly, they’re durable and easy-to-clean for any splashbacks or spillages, with easy installation to boot.

High-quality kitchen wall panels

Igloo Surfaces offers a kitchen wall panels, made from 100% waterproof PVC, in a wide range of colours. Our wall panels are hard-wearing, low-maintenance and easy-to-install. To make things even easier for you, we offer free samples, free delivery on orders over £100 and a 10-20 year guarantee. To take a closer browse through our full range of kitchen wall panels today.

What choices do you have for your bathroom walls? If you think you’re limited to tiles, think again!

While tiles are a conventional choice found in plenty of UK homeowners, they’re also expensive, difficult to install and tricky to maintain. Fortunately, they’re not the only option available. Read on as we look at 3 alternatives to messy bathroom tiling.

Why is it a tricky choice?

Unlike the living room, kitchen or bedrooms, the bathroom is especially difficult to decorate. Why? Its walls are within the ‘splash zone’ from the bath or shower. That means, over time, they’re inevitably going to get wet.

Conventional wall coverings like wallpaper will be destroyed by this moisture, leaving the bathroom looking a mess. That’s why tiles have become the ‘go-to’ option for bathrooms. They’re water resistant, so being in the splash zone is no problem at all. But what other water-resistant options are available?

1. Paint

Yes – it’s true – typically, paint shouldn’t be used in high-moisture environments. However, some paint is produced with a tighter structure, providing a tougher, mildew-resistant finish. The result? A wall covering that is steam and moisture resistant, so there’s no risk of damp on your bathroom walls.

With that in mind, specialist paint provides an easy way to add some colour to your bathroom – though it may need updating every few years as the paint eventually weakens.

2. Laminated panels

Laminated panels have been an alternative to bathroom tiles for years. Generally used in commercial settings, they have a laminated surface often backed with a wood or waterproof foam core. However, they can also be purchased as a laminate sheet. Because they’re laminated with a water-resistant coating, they are a durable option for bathrooms that can last for years.

Because they expand and contract with moisture, however, laminated panels typically need expansion gaps to be left during installation, making things a bit more complex.

3. PVC wall panels

One option that’s completely hassle free are PVC wall panels. Because they’re produced using PVC, they won’t expand, so they’re quick and easy to install. Simply apply good quality adhesive to the panel and you’re ready to go – they can even be fitted over tiles.

PVC wall panels are one of the best alternatives to tiles in the bathroom because – as well as being easy to install – they look superb. With a wide range of colours and finishes, they allow homeowners to personalise their bathroom to match their style to a tee.

High quality bathroom wall panels

If you’re looking for an attractive alternative to bathroom tiles for your home or commercial property, Igloo Surfaces can help. We stock PVC wall panels in a wide range of styles and colours. All of our products come with a 10 to 20-year guarantee, with free samples available before ordering, so you have complete peace of mind.

For more information, get in touch with our team who are always on hand to help.

Order 4 samples for £1 & receive a £5 discount - Order Samples Now >>
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