Shower panels vs tiles: Are shower panels the better choice?
Shower panels vs tiles: Are shower panels the better choice?
When remodelling your bathroom, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between shower panels vs tiles. In the past, tiles have been the traditional go to option, however shower panels are quickly gaining popularity for their modern style, ease of installation, and low maintenance. But how do they compare? We’ll cover everything to help you decide which one is for you including;
- What are shower panels?
- The advantages of shower panels
- The disadvantages of shower panels
- What are tiles?
- The advantages of tiles
- The disadvantages of tiles
- How to decide between shower panels vs tiles
What are shower panels?
Put simply, shower panels are large, waterproof panels made from materials like PVC, acrylic, or composite, designed to cover your shower or bathroom walls. They can come in a variety of styles, colours, and finishes, from luxurious marble looks to sleek modern textures.
What are the advantages of shower panels?
- Quick installation – Unlike tiles, which often require time consuming and costly installation, shower panels can usually be installed in just a few hours, reducing disruption to your home
- Low maintenance – One of the biggest comparisons when it comes to shower panels vs tiles, is the fact that shower panels are grout-free. Meaning there’s no need to worry about mould or dirt build up, making them easy to clean and maintain. Check out our guide for shower panel cleaning tips
- Cost effective – With minimal installation costs and fewer long term repairs, shower panels are a budget-friendly option. They also provide insulation, helping to reduce energy bills, perfect for the winter period in particular
- Modern look – Available in a wide range of designs, from sleek minimalist to luxurious marble finishes, shower panels can upgrade the style of any bathroom without breaking the bank
- Waterproof and durable – Designed to withstand years of exposure to moisture without warping or cracking, shower panels have a lifespan of 25 years making them perfect for wet environments
What are the disadvantages of shower panels?
Now you’re aware of the advantages of shower panels, but what are their weaknesses of having these installed into your bathroom?
- Less customisable – Whilst shower panels offer many designs, they lack the extensive variety of sizes, shapes, and patterns that tiles provide. However, they can be cut to fit your space
- Higher initial cost for premium panels – While affordable options exist, top-tier shower panels can be more expensive upfront. That said, the long term savings in maintenance often outweigh this cost
Moving onto bathroom tiles….
What are bathroom tiles?
Bathroom tiles are flat, thin, and usually square or rectangular pieces of material that are used to cover bathroom walls or floors. Tiles can be made from a variety of materials, including, ceramic, porcelain, stone and glass.
What are the advantages of tiles?
- Customisable design – When it comes to shower panels vs tiles and their advantages, tiles offer endless possibilities for mixing colours, patterns, and shapes, allowing for a highly personalised look
- Resale value – Some homeowners believe that tiles add more value to a home, as they are often seen as a classic, long term investment
- Durability – When properly maintained, tiles can last for decades and are resistant to water exposure and humidity
- Stain resistant – Non porous and resistant to spills, tiles are easy to keep looking clean and fresh
What are the disadvantages of tiles?
- Grout maintenance – The grout lines between tiles are well known for trapping dirt and moisture, leading to mould and mildew buildup, which requires regular deep cleaning, taking lots of time and effort
- Expensive installation – Tiles are difficult to install and usually need professional help, making them more expensive
- Cracking and water damage – Improper installation or long term use can cause tiles to crack, and water seeping through the grout can lead to damage and mould behind the tiles
How to decide between shower panels and tiles
Now it’s time to make a decision, when choosing between shower panels vs tiles, consider both aesthetics and practicality. For a hassle-free, modern, and cost effective option, shower panels often come out on top. They’re quicker to install, easier to clean, and offer excellent durability, which is exactly what you need for your bathroom.
Why choose Plastics Hub for your shower panels?
If you’re leaning toward shower panels, Plastics Hub is the best place to find high quality, affordable options. Whether you’re after a minimalist, contemporary look or a more luxurious style, we have a wide range of shower panels available in a range of sizes, including 1m, 250mm and our newly added 600mm panels to suit your bathroom’s aesthetic. Check out our range.
When it comes to bathroom renovations, and weighing up shower panels vs tiles, shower panels are the better choice for most modern homes. They’re fast to install, easy to maintain, and provide a sleek, contemporary finish at a fraction of the cost of tiles. Ready to upgrade your bathroom? Find the perfect panels to complete your dream bathroom upgrade with us today.
