When it comes to selecting wall panels or tiles in a bathroom design, the ideal choice relies on your taste, budget, and how you want to use the area. Both options have long been used to waterproof and decorate bathrooms, but your personal preferences will determine the best option.
This detailed guide covers the differences between bathroom wall panels and tiles, including waterproofing, maintenance, design, cost and ease of installation. Whether you're planning a complete renovation or a quick update, you'll learn which finish offers the best fit for your needs.
Explore the benefits of each, and see why more homeowners are choosing wet wall panels over traditional tiles.
Not sure which style is right for your bathroom? Order free samples to compare the finishes and colours at home.
Comparing Wall Panels and Tiles for Your Bathroom
Both tiles and wall panels have the same purpose: to protect bathroom walls from moisture while offering an attractive finish. You should think about how each will be installed and maintained, as well as how they will look, before deciding on tiles or wall panels for your bathroom.
Below, we have highlighted the important differences in wet areas to help you make an informed choice.
1. Materials and Construction
Bathroom wall panels are typically made from PVC or laminated MDF. Lightweight PVC panels feature a honeycomb core for easy handling, while Multipanel wall panels and Fibo use MDF or plywood for added rigidity and a high-end finish. These shower panels often replicate natural materials, such as concrete, marble, or tile effects.
Not all wall panels are equal. Lower-cost types may lack thickness or a durable surface, and very uneven walls may require preparation before fitting.
Typically composed of stone, porcelain or ceramic, bathroom tiles are prized for their tactile finish and classic appeal. They also give designers more freedom, but they need cement, which makes installation and upkeep more difficult.
You can browse Wet Wall Panel’s complete Multipanel collection and Fibo ranges for examples of tile-effect panels with a realistic finish.
2. Waterproofing and Hygiene
In wet areas like showers or behind basins, moisture protection is essential. Shower wall panels are fully waterproof and mould-resistant. They are great for rental homes and busy bathrooms because their smooth surface is easy to clean and doesn't have grout lines where water can collect.
However, if edges or trims aren’t properly sealed, water may still get through behind the panels.
Bathroom tiles are also waterproof, but only when the grout and backing layers are maintained. Over time, the cement can discolour or crack, allowing moisture in. That said, well-installed tiles that are regularly sealed can last for decades.
3. Installation Time and Process
Installing bathroom tiles is labour-intensive. Walls must be levelled, adhesive applied, tiles placed one by one, then grouted after curing. The process can take days and usually requires a professional tiler.
Bathroom wall panels are quicker. They come in large formats, up to 1200mm x 2400mm, and in many cases, just two panels can cover an entire shower wall. They can also be installed over the current tiles, reducing time and disruption.
Panels are easy to install with basic tools, though precision cuts or shaping can still benefit from professional help.
Need to renovate fast or fit over existing tiles? Our PVC wall panels make installation hassle-free.
4. Costs to Consider
Tile prices vary by material and finish. While basic tiles are affordable, grout, tools, and labour increase the overall cost. Even modest bathrooms can become expensive once fitting and finishing costs are factored in.
Bathroom wall panels are usually cost-effective. They cover more space, install faster, and cost less in labour, especially if they are put over existing tiles. DIY installation can also lower expenses.
Premium brands like Multipanel and Fibo are more expensive than budget panels, but still often cheaper than a full tiling job when time and effort are considered. Our affordable bathroom wall panels are ideal for homeowners, landlords or commercial clients looking to transform their bathroom on a budget.
5. Cleaning and Maintenance
Tiles vs wall panels: Which is easier to maintain? Here’s what you need to know. Tiles require consistent maintenance. Tile lines absorb moisture and dirt, so scrubbing and resealing are needed to prevent mildew, particularly in shower areas and wet areas.
Shower wall panels, by contrast, are low-maintenance. With no grout and a sealed surface, they wipe clean easily with mild cleaners. This makes them ideal for families, rentals, or users short on time.
However, cheaper panel finishes may dull when exposed to harsh cleaning products. It’s best to follow the care instructions to preserve their appearance in the long term.
6. Texture, Design and Style Options
Tiles come in a vast range of colours, sizes, and textures, from traditional subway tiles to high-gloss marble and natural stone. You can create feature walls, borders, or patterned layouts, making tiles ideal for bespoke designs.
Bathroom panels now offer comparable style, with finishes that replicate tile effect layouts, concrete, and marble. Whether you like gloss sparkle or a matte look, there’s a wide selection for modern interiors.
Customisation is more limited with panels, so if you want intricate layouts or fine detailing, tiles are an excellent alternative for flexibility and creative inspiration.
7. Maximising Small Bathrooms
In smaller bathroom spaces, the wall finish can affect how open a room feels. Wall panels create a seamless look with fewer joins and no grout lines, helping to reflect light and make compact areas feel larger.
This effect works well in narrow en-suites or low-ceilinged spaces where clutter should be minimised.
Tiles, especially smaller or heavily patterned ones, can make a space feel busier. However, large-format tiles in soft, light colours can achieve a similar spacious effect if laid well.
If you’re short on time, panels offer a faster way to transform and brighten small bathrooms.
FAQs About Shower Walls
Here are some of the frequently asked questions people have when deciding between shower wall panels and tiles.
Can you install wet wall panels over existing tiles?
Yes. As long as your existing tiles are flat and secure, you can use panel adhesive to put shower walls right over them. This is a standard option for people looking to update their bathroom without removing existing materials.
Are wall panels better than tiles for the bathroom?
This depends on your design goals. Regarding bathroom wall panels vs tiles, panels are often the better choice if you want a quicker installation, less upkeep, and lower costs. Tiles might be more your style if you like complicated patterns or a classic look. It all depends on what you like and how much work you want to do to keep it up. Bathroom wall panels are a great choice for most people, especially those who are updating a rental or family bathroom. They offer many benefits for the best value for money.
Is a wet wall better than tiles in the shower?
In shower cubicles and high-moisture zones, wet wall panels have a significant advantage. They’re fully waterproof and grout-free, making them easier to conserve and more resistant to mould. Tiles still work well, but only if properly sealed and cleaned regularly.
Why Choose Wet Wall Panels?
At Wet Wall Panels, we’re not your typical bathroom retailer. We’re a proud Scottish company offering a curated selection of premium-quality shower panels designed for both homes and commercial areas. From stylish PVC options to advanced Multipanel and Fibo boards, we provide a practical alternative to traditional bathroom tiles, with less mess and faster results.
Our mission is simple: to make bathroom renovations easy, affordable and accessible. That’s why:
-
Our team has years of industry experience
-
We only sell panels we’d be proud to install ourselves
-
You’ll find panels for every budget, no pushy showroom salespeople
-
All our panels are 100% mould resistant, hygienic, and easy to fit
-
You can install wet wall panels over tiles, with no grout and no mess
-
We’re focused on Central Scotland, with fast, friendly service you can trust
Looking to get started? Contact us for expert advice on the best panels for your property.