From minimalistic to bold designs, shower panels revolutionised modern bathroom renovation. Shower wall panels come in various materials and styles. They provide stylish and low-maintenance solutions to your bathroom and more personality and uniqueness. This article will help you explore different shower panel types, their designs, the innovative features of shower towers, and what you need to consider before adding them to your bathroom space.
Types of Shower Panels
For bathroom areas, one must consider getting waterproof shower panels, especially due to the backsplash and high humidity. The most common brands for panels are the Nuance shower panels and Mermaid shower panels. That is to say, bathroom tiles aren’t your only option.
Materials
Shower Glass Panel:
As the name suggests, these are fixed and durable glass enclosures. Shower glass panels are large and made of toughened safety glass. They provide a sense of a bigger space and light in your bathroom and can be a part of a walk-in shower design. They are designed in clear, tinted, frosted, or textured, and enhance privacy and shower appearance. However, fixed panel shower screens are splash guards on bathtubs or walk-in showers that are less expensive.
PVC Shower Panels:
PVC and plastic shower panels are the cheapest on the market. Their affordability makes them popular in budget bathroom renovations. PVC panels are lightweight, easy to install, waterproof, and low-maintenance. You can find a variety of PVC panels, such as natural stone (marble, for example), wood, and realistic tile effects. PVC can also be an eco-friendly shower panel as it can be made of recycled materials.
Acrylic Shower Panels:
Although slightly more expensive than PVC, acrylic panels feature acrylic sheets that create a glossy, polished, and modern look. They are also lightweight, waterproof, easy to install, and scratch-resistant. Acrylic shower panels are more durable than PVC but less durable than other materials like glass wall panels.
Laminate Shower Panels:
Laminate panels are highly durable and come in various designs. They can also be MDF shower panels (Medium-Density Fiberboard), which are engineered wood products coated with a waterproof layer. On the other hand, manufacturers make plywood shower panels by protecting plywood with a laminate or decorative surface. Both options are waterproof, sturdy, and give a high-end look.
Composite Stone Shower Panels:
Stone panels are made of natural stone and resin. They provide a luxurious natural stone look that is highly durable and waterproof. Composite stone panels are heavier and more expensive, providing a high-end spa-looking bathroom.
Shower Tower Panel:
Shower towers are an all-in-one vertical unit that mounts to the shower wall and provides multiple functionalities. It combines multiple features and shower components such as an overhead rainfall shower, a handheld shower head, diverter valves, and thermostatic controls.
Shower tower panels are designed to improve the shower experience, modernise the bathroom appearance, and provide hydrotherapy and spa-like relaxation. Shower towers are not only a sleek, modern addition to your bathroom but also a therapeutic, functional outlet that makes showers more enjoyable.
Disadvantages of Shower Panels: Things to Consider
Although panels are a waterproof and trendy option for bathroom renovations, there are some drawbacks you might experience. Here are things to consider before getting them:
Bathroom Size:
The size of your bathroom might determine which panels to get. For example, if you have a small bathroom, wall panels will give the illusion of a larger space due to their seamless surface. A common mistake is choosing large panels that can overwhelm and clutter a small bathroom. However, in a large bathroom, a spacious shower panel complements the open layout. Although the cost of more material will not be budget-friendly.
Cost Comparison:
Wall panels are generally more costly than bathroom wall tiles. Tiles typically have a more expensive installation process because it is more complex and time-consuming. However, panels are easier and faster to install. For more information, check this blog.
Maintenance:
Some materials, like PVC and acrylic, may warp or discolour with time due to extreme heat. They can also be more prone to scratches. Also, improper installation may lead to water leaks and mould problems. But unlike tiles, panels are easier to clean. Tiles require more maintenance and cleaning; their grout has to be cleaned properly to prevent mould and resealed if necessary.
Material and Value:
Some materials are prone to damage, which makes homeowners believe that the value of the panels is less than tiles. Durable solutions like composite stone and glass are more costly but add more value to the property.
How to Install a Shower Panel
Bathroom shower panels are easy to install, and the process is similar for both bath shower panels and standard shower wall panels. First, prep the wall by cleaning and smoothing the surface, ensuring the bathroom is completely dry. Leaving a small gap on the edges, measure and cut the panels to fit the expansion. After that, attach shower panel trims on the edges for a seamless, waterproof finish. Apply a waterproof shower panel adhesive to the back of the panels and press them onto the wall. Slide them into the trims and the seams with a waterproof sealant. Finally, clean the surroundings and wait for the adhesion according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Shower/bath wall panelling is an easy upgrade to your bathroom. Although professionals can pick which option is better for your aesthetic and budget. Not only that, but fitters will calculate the layout, lighting, and size for the most modern and versatile bathroom. With AV Modern Bathrooms, we can provide a full renovation no matter your bathroom size or style. Starting from £3,600 only, our experts will cater to your needs and time and offer a one-year workmanship warranty.
Book a free quote today! If you want to discuss your ideas, don’t hesitate to: call us at +44 1942 365989, email us at info@avmodernbathrooms.com, or visit us at 69-71 Higher Parr Street, St. Helens, WA9 1AD, UK (our main office is in St. Helens, but we proudly serve customers across the North West, North Wales, and parts of the Midlands).