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Thinking about using wall panels in your shower instead of traditional bathroom tiles? You’re not alone.
Shower panels have been a growing trend in bathroom design for years - and in our showrooms, we’ve helped plenty of people figure out whether they’re the right fit. If you're stuck choosing between shower panels and bathroom tiles, this guide should help.
What are Shower Panels?
Shower panels are a modern alternative to tiles, used to line the walls inside a shower or wet area.
They’re typically made from materials like PVC, acrylic, or laminate, and come in large sheet formats (often around 1m wide and full wall height). The panels are attached directly to the wall, either with adhesive or fixings, and slot neatly together for a seamless finish.
What is the Difference Between Shower Panels and Tiles?
The main difference between shower panels and tiles is how they’re built and installed. Tiles are usually made from ceramic or porcelain and are applied one by one with grout in between. This makes them more flexible for design, but also more time-consuming to fit!
Shower panels, on the other hand, are much quicker to install and don’t require grout, which makes them easier to keep clean.
Shower Panels vs Tiles - Quick Comparison
| Shower Panels | Bathroom Tiles |
| Made from PVC, acrylic or laminate | Made from Ceramic, porcelain or stone |
| Quick to fit, fewer joins | Slower to install, more labour-intensive |
| Easy to wipe down surface, with no grout to clean | Grout needs regular care and occasional re-sealing |
| Often cheaper overall, especially on labour | Can be more expensive, due to fitting time |
| Sleek, seamless finish in various styles | More flexible for custom patterns/layouts |
| Durable and water-resistant if fitted properly | Long-lasting, but grout can wear over time |
Shower Panel Benefits
Many of our customers opt for shower panels because of the practical benefits they offer. Here are some of the main advantages of shower panels, and why most people choose them:
1. Shower panels are quick and easy to install.
Panels come in large sheets, so there’s less measuring, cutting, and mess. A professional can usually fit them in a fraction of the time it takes to tile a full shower. So if you've got a busy household, and can't be without your bathroom for too long, panelling is the quickest option.
2. They’re hygienic and low maintenance.
With essentially no grout lines, you won't need to "re-grout" shower panels the way you usually have to with tiles. There's also no risk of mould building up between joints, so they're easy to clean. This makes them great for rental properties or busy households.
3. They’re cost-effective.
Because they’re faster to fit and involve less labour, panels are the more budget-friendly choice, especially for large showers or homes with multiple shower rooms. That means you can splash out on other bathroom fixtures instead, like a luxury bathroom mirror or vanity unit.
4. There’s a wide range of shower panel styles.
Shower panels come in all sorts of colours, finishes, and patterns - including stone, marble, concrete, and high-gloss. This makes it easy to match your bathroom design, whether you prefer plain or patterned. If your style changes, they're also quick and easy to replace.
5. Shower panel materials are durable and long-lasting.
Most shower panels are made from water-resistant, hardwearing materials that stand up well to daily use. However, we do advise going with a professional supplier and visiting a bathroom showroom to assess the quality in person.
6. Panels can be used throughout the bathroom.
Shower panels aren’t just for the shower. You can fit them behind sinks, around baths, or even across full bathroom walls. Lots of our customers choose to panel their entire bathroom for a cohesive look, and don't want the hassle of painting.
Benefits of Tiles in a Shower
All that considered, tiles are still the most popular option for many bathroom shower renovations. Sometimes it’s difficult to beat traditional shower tiles, and here’s why:
1. Shower tiles can be more flexible for design.
Tiles give you more options for shapes, layouts, colours, and patterns. You can create a feature wall, mix different styles, or go for something classic. Textured tiles can also be a great way to add visual interest.
2. Tiles create a traditional or high-end look.
Tiles can bring a sense of craftsmanship to a bathroom. In older homes with a traditional aesthetic, shower panels can look out of place, whereas tiles on the other hand, can tie in nicely and complement a traditional home.
3. They’re DIY-friendly.
Many homeowners like the option of fitting tiles themselves, especially on smaller projects. That said, we do recommend using a professional for shower tiling to avoid the risk of water damage. But for example, you could tile a bath or vanity splashback yourself, to match tiles in the shower.
4. You can tile across walls and floors.
Unlike some wall panels, tiles can be used seamlessly on both shower walls and bathroom floors. Customers who are creating a wet room always opt for tiles, as they give a consistent look from floor to ceiling.
5. They’re durable and long-lasting.
Tiles are tough and stand up well to everyday use. With proper fitting and sealing, a tiled shower can last for decades. As long as you stay on top of cleaning, you should have minimial issues.
6. Regrouting can be a positive.
While shower tile grout does need upkeep, the benefit is that it can be refreshed or replaced without redoing the entire shower, unlike shower panels where the entire panel needs to be replaced.
Bathroom Wall Panels vs Tiles - Cost Considerations
When it comes to cost, shower panels are generally the more budget-friendly option - mainly due to faster installation and lower labour time. Tiles tend to cost more overall, not just because of the materials, but also because fitting them takes longer and may require more specialist tools or skills.
The total price of either option will depend on:
- The size of your bathroom
- How complex the job is
- The materials you choose
If you'd like to gauge the cost of materials, use our handy "Add to Quote" feature. Simply browse our tiles or shower panel products, select the tile/panel type, and quantity to see how much they would cost.
Common Customer Questions
Can you put tiles over shower panels?
In theory, yes, you can tile over shower panels - however, we don’t recommend it. Most shower panels aren’t designed to support the weight of tiles on top, so if you're changing from panels to tiles, it's best to remove the panels completely and start with a fresh surface.
How do you clean shower panels compared to tiles?
Shower panels are much easier to clean compared to tiles, as there’s less scrubbing required. Aim to clean shower panels once a week, simply wipe down the surface with a cloth or squeegee and bathroom cleaner. To prevent water streaks, we also advise drying shower panels with a microfibre cloth.
Can you attach a shower holder to shower panels like you can with tiles?
Yes, most shower panels are strong enough to hold a shower riser rail or bracket, as long as it's installed correctly using appropriate fixings. Just make sure to follow the panel manufacturer’s guidelines.
How sustainable are shower panels?
It depends on the material. Some shower panels are made from recyclable plastics, while others are more difficult to dispose of. Tiles, especially natural stone or ceramic, are generally more sustainable, but both options can be installed with long-term use in mind, which reduces waste over time.
Shower Panels vs Tiles - Which is Better?
There’s no right or wrong answer here, it really depends on your style, budget, and how you use your bathroom!
Shower panels are great if you want a clean, modern look without the fuss. They're ideal for busy households, rental homes, or renovations on a tighter budget. Tiles are perfect for custom designs, traditional finishes, and those looking for something with long-term visual impact.
If you're planning a bathroom renovation and not sure which option is best for you, seeing samples in person can make a world of difference! Our experts are also happy to offer some professional advice for free.
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