When renovating a bathroom, one of the most important decisions is choosing between shower tiles and shower panels. Both options have advantages and drawbacks, and selecting the right one depends on budget, maintenance, durability, and overall aesthetic preferences.
While shower tiles have long been popular due to their customisation options and classic look, shower panels have gained popularity for their ease of installation and low maintenance.
In this article, we will explore the differences between shower tiles and shower panels, delving into the pros and cons of each. We’ll cover key considerations such as installation, cost, durability, and maintenance to help you decide which option is best for your bathroom.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Choosing between shower tiles and shower panels depends on your design, installation, maintenance, and cost priorities. Shower tiles offer high customisation, durability, and resale value, but they are more expensive and require more maintenance due to grout.
On the other hand, shower panels are quick to install, easier to clean, and cost-effective but offer fewer design options and may need to be more durable and desirable for resale. The decision comes down to whether you prefer the traditional, customisable style of tiles or the modern, low-maintenance convenience of panels.
What Are Shower Tiles?
Shower tiles are the traditional bathroom choice and are often seen in various styles, materials, and finishes. Typically made from ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone, tiles offer a classic aesthetic and a range of customisation options.
Advantages Of Shower Tiles
- Design Versatility: Shower tiles come in various colours, patterns, and textures. Whether looking for a modern, rustic, or classic look, tiles can be mixed and matched to create unique designs.
- Durability: When properly installed and maintained, shower tiles are incredibly durable. Materials like porcelain and stone can last for decades without losing their appeal.
- Resale Value: Tiled bathrooms often add more resale value to a property, as they are seen as higher-end, customisable solutions.
Disadvantages Of Shower Tiles
- Grout Issues: One of the biggest downsides to using tiles in a shower is grout. If not regularly cleaned, grout lines can become a magnet for mould and mildew, leading to additional maintenance.
- Installation Time and Cost: Installing shower tiles can be time-consuming and labour-intensive. Skilled tilers are needed for proper alignment and waterproofing, making the installation expensive.
- Cracking Risk: Tiles may crack over time, particularly if the house settles or experiences structural shifts.
What Are Shower Panels?
Shower panels are large waterproof sheets designed to cover the walls of your shower or bathroom. They are usually made from acrylic, PVC, or laminate and offer a smooth, seamless appearance.
Advantages Of Shower Panels
- Quick Installation: Shower panels are quicker to install than tiles. You don’t have to worry about grout or dealing with individual pieces. In many cases, homeowners can install panels as a DIY project, which reduces labour costs.
- Low Maintenance: Shower panels are much easier to clean without grout lines. A simple wipe-down with a cloth keeps them looking fresh.
- Waterproofing: Since shower panels come in large sheets, there are fewer seams and cracks where water can seep in. This makes them highly water-resistant and less prone to water damage over time.
- Cost-Effective: Depending on your chosen material, shower panels can be more affordable than tiles, especially when you factor in installation costs.
Disadvantages Of Shower Panels
- Limited Design Options: While various finishes and textures are available, shower panels don’t offer the same design flexibility as tiles. You may have fewer customisation options regarding colour, pattern, or texture.
- Lower Resale Value: Some homeowners view shower panels as a lower-quality option than tiles, which may affect the resale value of your property.
- Not As Durable: Shower panels, particularly those made from cheaper materials, can be prone to scratches, cracks, or discolouration over time.
Shower Tiles vs. Panels: A Comparison
Installation
Installing Shower Tiles
Installing shower tiles involves more than installing panels. It requires specialised skills and attention to detail. Each tile must be placed individually to ensure proper alignment, cutting, and grouting.
This process involves careful measuring, precise cutting, and the application of adhesive and grout, all of which require experience and expertise.
Due to the complexity of the process and the importance of a watertight seal, installing shower tiles is best left to professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure a successful and long-lasting installation.
Installing Shower Panels
On the other hand, shower panels are designed to be installed with minimal effort. Large sheets are cut to size and affixed to the walls, usually with adhesive, making the installation process quick and straightforward.
This quicker installation reduces labour costs, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on bathroom renovations. Shower panels also offer a variety of styles and finishes, allowing homeowners to achieve a modern and stylish look without the complexity and expense of traditional tile installation.
Maintenance
Maintaining Shower Tiles
While shower tiles are easy to clean, the grout between them can be challenging.
Over time, grout lines may become discoloured or accumulate mould, requiring regular scrubbing and resealing to maintain a clean and hygienic shower environment.
Maintaining Shower Panels
Shower panels offer a major advantage in terms of maintenance. With no grout lines to worry about, cleaning is much easier.
A simple wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent will keep panels looking new, eliminating time-consuming scrubbing and resealing.
Cost
Cost of Shower Tiles
The cost of shower tiles can vary significantly depending on the material and design. Ceramic tiles are more affordable, while natural stone or custom designs can be costly.
Additionally, installation costs can be high due to the labour-intensive process, requiring skilled professionals to ensure a proper and watertight installation.
Cost of Shower Panels
Shower panels are generally more cost-effective in terms of material and installation. The upfront cost may vary depending on the material, but the labour costs will be significantly lower due to the quicker installation process.
This makes shower panels a more budget-friendly option for renovating their bathrooms without breaking the bank.
Durability
Durability of Shower Tiles
High-quality shower tiles, particularly porcelain or natural stone, are incredibly durable.
They can last for decades with proper care, providing a long-lasting and stylish solution for your shower. However, if not installed correctly, they can crack, and grout lines may deteriorate over time, requiring costly repairs and replacements.
Durability of Shower Panels
While shower panels are designed to be durable, they may last less time than tiles, especially if they are made from cheaper materials like PVC.
Scratches, cracks, and discolouration are potential issues, especially in high-traffic bathrooms, where they are exposed to constant use and potential damage.
Aesthetic Appeal
Aesthetic Appeal of Shower Tiles
Tiles offer endless possibilities for customisation, allowing you to create a truly unique and personalised shower space. From intricate mosaics to large-format tiles, the options are virtually limitless, catering to various design aesthetics and preferences.
Suppose you’re looking to make a statement or create a luxurious space. In that case, tiles are the better option, providing a wide range of materials, colours, textures, and patterns to express your style and create a truly stunning shower experience.
Aesthetic Appeal of Shower Panels
While shower panels have improved in design, they may offer a different level of elegance or customisation than tiles. Panels typically have a more modern, streamlined look, which may not suit every homeowner’s aesthetic.
While they offer various colours and patterns, they often need more intricate details and unique textures in traditional tile designs. For those seeking a truly bespoke and luxurious shower experience, tiles offer greater customisation and design flexibility.
Conclusion
When deciding between shower tiles and shower panels, your choice will ultimately depend on your design, budget, maintenance, and durability priorities. Shower tiles offer a timeless, customisable look and high durability but require more effort in installation and maintenance.
On the other hand, shower panels are easier to install, cost-effective, and require less upkeep. However, they offer limited design options and may only last briefly. Both options have merits, so consider your preferences and long-term goals to determine which best suits your bathroom renovation.
FAQs About Shower Tiles And Panels
Are Shower Walls And Panels Eco-Friendly?
Some shower wall and panel materials, like recycled glass or bamboo, are more eco-friendly than others. However, it is important to research the materials used to determine their environmental impact.
How Long Do Shower Wall Panels Last?
The most expensive can endure the lifetime of the bathroom, while products with a lower price point need to be replaced in ten to fifteen years. Not all installations are done by the homeowner. Stone, certain types of solid surfaces, and certain types of high-end acrylic panels all require installation by a specialist. Additionally, certain sellers will only sell panels if an installation contract is first established.
Is It Cheaper To Tile Or Panel A Bathroom?
Bathroom wall panels unquestionably have an advantage over tiles in that they are composed of fewer elements; when you do the math, you can look at one panel rather than one hundred tiles. The cost of wall space that needs to be covered will determine whether or not installing bathroom wall panels is a more cost-effective and less time-consuming choice.
How Are Shower Walls And Panels Installed?
Shower walls and panels can be installed in several ways, including adhesive, nails or screws, or interlocking panels. The installation method will depend on the type of material being used and the specific design of the shower or bathtub.
Can Shower Walls And Panels Be Customised?
Yes, shower walls and panels can be customised to fit any size or shape of shower or bathtub. Many manufacturers offer a range of colours and patterns to choose from, and some even allow for custom designs or printing.
