Month: August 2025

Planning a bathroom renovation? One of the biggest choices you’ll make (after whether or not to go for underfloor heating, of course) is this:

Tiles or wall panels?

Both are solid options. Both are waterproof. Both can look amazing. But they offer different advantages — and there are a few key things to know before you commit.

This blog is your side-by-side breakdown to help you choose what’s best for your new bathroom. Spoiler: there’s no wrong answer, but there is definitely a smarter one depending on your space, budget, and how much you like cleaning grout.

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What’s the difference?

Tiles are individual ceramic, porcelain or stone pieces, fitted using adhesive and finished with grout. They come in just about every colour, shape and style imaginable.

Wall panels are large waterproof sheets, typically made from PVC, MDF laminate or acrylic, that are fixed directly to your bathroom walls. They’re designed to be fast to install, easy to clean, and 100% waterproof when fitted properly.

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Why choose tiles?

✓ Classic, timeless appeal

Tiles give you huge design flexibility. Whether you want a sleek marble-effect wall, rustic stone, or bold herringbone feature, tiles can make it happen.

✓ Custom layout options

Mix sizes, shapes, borders and grout colours to make the design completely yours.

✓ Heat and wear resistant

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are tough. A well-installed tiled wall will last decades.

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 The downsides?

Grout maintenance. Even with mould-resistant options, grout can stain or crack over time.

Longer installation time. Tiling requires prep, setting, grouting and drying time.

Labour cost. Especially for intricate designs or smaller tiles.

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Why choose wall panels?

✓ Quick to install

Because they’re large sheets, wall panels go up in a fraction of the time compared to tiles. Great if you’re on a tight timeline or budget.

✓ Grout-free & low maintenance

No grout = no scrubbing. Most panels can be wiped clean with a cloth and spray.

✓ Seamless look

Perfect for modern, minimal bathrooms. Especially good in showers and around baths.

✓ Waterproof

When properly sealed and installed, wall panels provide a full waterproof barrier.

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 But be warned:

Not all wall panels are created equally.

There are some fantastic systems out there — and some very flimsy, bendy ones that won’t last a year. If you’re leaning towards panels, make sure you read this first:

→ Choosing the Right Wall Panels for Your Bathroom: What to Look For (and What to Avoid)

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Cost comparison

Feature	Tiles	Wall Panels
Materials	Wide price range (can be high)	Mid-range to premium options
Installation	Slower, more labour	Faster, usually lower cost
Maintenance	Grout needs upkeep	Wipe-clean, no grout
Customisation	Total design flexibility	More limited, but improving

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Our recommendation

At DTS Plumbing & Heating and Signature Bathrooms by DTS, we regularly install both. And honestly? It depends on what you want from your bathroom.

Go for tiles if you:

• Want a traditional or highly stylised finish
• Love bold design detail or intricate patterns
• Don’t mind doing a bit of grout maintenance now and then

Go for wall panels if you:

• Want something fast, clean and easy to maintain
• Prefer a seamless or modern look
• Want a low-fuss shower enclosure or bath surround

Or do both!

Many of our customers go for wall panels in the shower, and tiles everywhere else. You get the speed and practicality where it matters, and the personality where it counts.

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Still not sure?

Come and see both options up close at The Design Hub. We’ll walk you through samples, show you how different systems work, and help you design a bathroom that looks amazing and works perfectly for your space.

Unit 10-11 Treeton Business Centre, Rotherham
0114 248 3011 Book a bathroom consultation

Wall panels offer a sleek, grout‑free alternative to tiles that are fast to install and easy to maintain. But here’s the deal: not all wall panels are created equal — and some budget options can feel flimsy or warp under steam.

If you’re considering panels for your bathroom, this guide will help you understand what materials and thickness matter… and which ones to avoid.

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Types of Wall Panels We Recommend

1. Bushboard Nuance – Premium & 100% Waterproof

Bushboard Nuance is what we recommend when you want flawless performance and absolute peace of mind.

• Core & construction: High‑pressure decorative laminate bonded to a 10–11 mm synthetic, homogenous polyurethane core which is totally impervious to water  .
• No trims needed: Post‑formed edges or tongue‑and‑groove panels allow for a seamless, trim-free finish — meaning fewer joints and potential leak points  .
• 15‑Year Guarantee: Bushboard guarantees Nuance remains watertight for up to 15 years — provided it’s installed with their BB Complete adhesive/sealant and maintained properly  .

In short: 100% waterproof, rigid, seamless, and built to last.

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2. Multipanel & Swan Shower Panels – Solid Laminate Options

• These are reliable laminate-core systems, typically around 8–10 mm thick.
• Versatile and dependable for both modern and traditional bathroom styles.
• Made with a moisture-resistant MDF core and decorative laminate surface.

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3. Neptune – Quality PVC Panels with Substance

Neptune panels are the best mid‑range PVC option we install.

• Good for budget-conscious projects where full laminate isn’t required.
• Slightly thicker than entry-level PVC systems, with tongue-and-groove edges for a cleaner finish.
• Lighter than laminate but still rigid enough for small to medium shower zones.

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Thickness & Build: Why It Matters

Wall panels are usually available in 4mm–11mm+ thickness.

Key thresholds:

• Under 6mm (e.g. thin PVC): Prone to flex, warp, and feel hollow. Avoid behind showers or high-traffic areas.
• 6–8mm: Acceptable mid‑range. Some PVC panels fall into this category—but feel carefully before committing.
• 10–11mm+: Premium laminate construction or composite core — delivers solidity, stability, and longevity.

We specify 8mm or thicker for wet-zone installations, with Nuance laminate panels at ~11mm being the most robust  .

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Joints & Sealing

• Tongue-and-Groove systems (like Nuance and Neptune) offer joints that slot together, reducing potential points for leaks.
• Trim-based systems (e.g. Multipanel, Swan) rely on matched trims and sealants to form watertight corners and joins.
• Always use manufacturer-recommended adhesive and sealant. For Nuance, the BB Complete adhesive is required to activate the 15-year guarantee 

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What to Avoid: Budget PVC Panels

While tempting on price, ultra-thin no-name PVC panels often:

• Flex or bow when pressure or steam hits them
• Use low-quality printed surfaces that fade or scratch easily
• Risk breakdown and leaks due to brittle edges or poorly sealed joints

If the listing doesn’t state thickness or core material — or if panels weigh less than 2 kg per square metre — assume they’re not fit for showers or high-moist-use walls

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DTS Recommendations at a Glance

Brand / Range	Core & Thickness	Waterproof Guarantee	Finish & Design
Bushboard Nuance	10–11 mm laminate with PU core	100% waterproof, 15yr guarantee	Seamless, premium textures, trim-free
Multipanel & Swan	~8–10 mm laminate/MDF	Excellent when trimmed & sealed	Wide design range, traditional to modern
Neptune – PVC	~6–8 mm PVC, tongue & groove	Waterproof if well sealed	Budget-friendly, practical finishes

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Final Thoughts

If you want wall panels that feel solid, look stunning, and perform flawlessly — Bushboard Nuance is your go-to. It’s genuinely 100% waterproof, needs no trims, and comes with a strong guarantee.

Multipanel and Swan give fantastic design flexibility at a slightly lower price, and Neptune offers a good-quality PVC alternative if you’re watching costs.

Steer clear of flimsy, ultra-thin panels — they rarely last more than a year in high-moisture zones.

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Visit The Design Hub to see samples in person: Unit 10-11 Treeton Business Centre, Rotherham

Call us on 0114 248 3011 Or book a bathroom consultation online: dtsplumbing.co.uk/book-an-appointment

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When it comes to heating controls, most people fall into one of two camps:

• Camp 1: “I just want to turn the heating up or down, why is this so complicated?”
• Camp 2: “I want to create the perfect heating schedule down to the minute, from my phone, while I’m in Tenerife.”

The EPH CP4D programmable RF thermostat handles both of these people with ease. That’s why it’s our go-to thermostat here at DTS Plumbing & Heating — simple for those who want simple, powerful for those who want total control.

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First off, what is it?

The EPH CP4D is a programmable wireless thermostat that comes with a neat little RF receiver and a classic handwheel dial for temperature control. You can set daily or weekly heating schedules, adjust temperatures easily, and yes — if you want to get fancy — even connect it to a gateway and control it via app, from anywhere in the world.

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Why we love it

1. Simplicity wins

The interface is clean, the screen is clear, and the handwheel makes adjusting the temperature almost… satisfying. It’s intuitive enough that most people can use it without ever reading the manual (though we obviously recommend you do).

Ideal for:

• Anyone who hates techy touchscreens with weird symbols
• Elderly customers
• People switching from old-school dial stats

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2. Modular & App-Ready

What sets the CP4D apart is how modular it is.

Want to keep it basic? No problem — use it as a simple programmable stat with push-button programming.

Want to go full smart-home? Just add the EPH gateway and you can:

• Control your heating from your phone
• Set schedules on the app
• Get remote access when you’re away
• Monitor usage and adjust settings on the fly

It turns into a smart thermostat — without the price tag or complexity of something like a Nest or Hive.

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3. Reliable RF connection

Unlike some wireless stats that drop out if you so much as sneeze near them, the CP4D boasts a strong and reliable RF signal. In our experience, it performs brilliantly even in larger houses or awkward layouts where other thermostats have struggled.y or safety.

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4. Customisable but not confusing

Want to run a 5/2 or 7-day programme? Fine.

Prefer a fixed target temperature all day? Easy.

Want to get nerdy with your timings and maximise energy efficiency? Go for it.

This stat really is the Swiss Army knife of heating controls: compact, practical, and full of clever features for those who want them — while still being effortless for those who don’t.

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Final thoughts

The EPH CP4D is the perfect bridge between traditional thermostats and modern smart heating. It works beautifully out of the box, doesn’t overwhelm the user, and still leaves the door open for full app control if you want it.

That’s why we fit loads of these — and rarely get a call back. Customers love how easy it is. Engineers love how reliable and versatile it is. And frankly, we love not having to explain how to pair a thermostat over Bluetooth in a loft with no signal.

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Want one installed?

We supply and fit the CP4D as part of many of our boiler installations and upgrades.

Give us a shout if you’d like a quote or want to upgrade your existing stat.

Call us on 0114 248 3011 or Book an appointment

Worcester Bosch combi boilers are the pride of many British homes — reliable, efficient, and built to last. But like any bit of hardworking kit, even the best need a bit of TLC to keep ticking over smoothly.

If you’re wondering what really happens during a boiler service (beyond us disappearing into your airing cupboard for an hour), here’s a full, honest breakdown. No vague checklists. No fluff. Just a proper explanation of what we actually do when servicing your Worcester Bosch combi boiler.

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Why your Worcester needs an annual service

Even if your heating’s been working fine, your boiler still benefits massively from a yearly check-up.

Servicing:

• Keeps your boiler running efficiently, so you don’t spend more than you need to on gas
• Helps us spot and fix small issues before they become big, expensive ones
• Keeps your manufacturer warranty valid (Worcester Bosch insist on it annually)
• Ensures your boiler is safe to use and not leaking carbon monoxide

A small investment each year keeps your home warm, your bills lower, and your boiler warranty intact.

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What we actually  do on the day

Whether you’ve got a Worcester Bosch Greenstar i, Greenstar 4000, Life, Style or Compact — the basics of the service are the same. Here’s what our engineers do during a standard service visit

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1. Visual inspection

We start with a proper look over the boiler, checking:

• For signs of corrosion, leaks, or damage
• That the flue is safely installed and not blocked (inside and outside)
• That there are no error codes or lockouts showing
• That the boiler case seals are intact and the area is safe to work in

This step gives us an overview before diving into the technical stuff.

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2. Test gas pressure and fan pressure

We check:

• Gas inlet pressure (to make sure the boiler is getting the right flow)
• Burner working pressure (while it’s running)
• And we also carry out a fan pressure test

The fan pressure test is a crucial one. It ensures combustion gases are being safely expelled and the boiler is drawing in the correct air-to-gas ratio. It also tells us if the fan is showing signs of wear or weakness, which could affect efficiency or safety.

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3. Strip down & clean the burner and heat exchanger

(Only when needed)

Worcester Bosch boilers are built to a very high standard, and in most cases, don’t need to be stripped down and cleaned every year. We typically carry this out every four years, or sooner if your combustion readings or seal condition suggest it’s required.

If it’s needed, we:

• Remove the burner and combustion chamber cover
• Clean the main heat exchanger
• Inspect and clean the ignition electrodes and flame sensor
• Check the condition of the burner mesh

Important to note: this type of deep service may require replacement of seals and electrodes, which can incur additional costs. If that’s the case, we’ll always let you know before going ahead, and explain what’s needed and why.

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4. Clean the condensate trap

The condensate trap collects acidic water from the combustion process. We:

• Remove it
• Flush it through
• Check for blockages or deterioration
• Refit and test

A blocked condensate trap can cause the boiler to shut down, especially in winter.

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5. Expansion vessel & safety checks

We check:

• The pressure in the expansion vessel, topping it up if needed
• That the pressure relief valve is operating correctly and not leaking
• All internal safety features are functioning properly, such as flame detection and thermostat cut-outs

These components keep your boiler safe if something goes wrong.

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6. Clean the magnetic filter (if fitted)

If you’ve got a magnetic filter (like a MagnaClean), we:

• Remove the magnet
• Clean the inside of sludge and debris
• Refit and repressurise

If you don’t have a magnetic filter, we may recommend installing one — it’s one of the best ways to protect your system from sludge build-up.

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7. Combustion analysis using flue gas analyser

We insert a flue gas analyser into the flue and take readings of:

• CO (carbon monoxide)
• CO₂ (carbon dioxide)
• Oxygen and excess air
• Boiler efficiency and performance

These readings are compared to Worcester Bosch specifications to make sure your boiler is burning cleanly and safely. If the numbers are off, we’ll adjust the gas valve accordingly.

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8. System pressure check and top-up

We check your system pressure and top it up to the correct level, usually around 1.5 bar when cold. If it’s regularly dropping, that could indicate a leak or faulty valve, which we’ll advise you on.

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9. Check boiler controls and settings

We’ll test your heating and hot water controls to make sure:

• Timers, thermostats and smart controls are working correctly
• The boiler responds as it should when called for heat
• Your settings are optimal for comfort and energy savings

If you’re using a Comfort+ II RF or Bosch EasyControl, we’ll also check the connectivity and signal strength.

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10. Complete your service record and leave you a full report

We update your boiler’s service history (paper or digital) and provide you with a full report. This includes:

• And a record to keep your warranty valid
• The checks completed
• Any recommendations

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How long does it take?

A standard Worcester Bosch combi boiler service takes around 45 minutes to an hour. If we’re doing a full strip-down (on a four-year cycle or as needed), it may take slightly longer.

We don’t rush, and we don’t cut corners.

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How much does it cost?

Our standard service charge is £120, including VAT.

If you’re signed up to one of our Cosy Care Plans, your annual boiler service is included — no extra charge.

You’ll also benefit from:

• Priority breakdown response
• Peace of mind all year round

You can explore our plans here: View Cosy Care Plans

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Ready to book your Worcester service?

We’re Worcester-accredited installers and service engineers, and we know these boilers inside and out. Whether you’ve got a Greenstar 4000 or a Classic i Combi, we’ll look after it properly.

Book online now:

Book an appointment Or call us on 0114 248 3011

If you’ve ever wondered what’s really going on when your heating engineer disappears into the cupboard under the stairs with your Ideal Logic boiler and a cup of tea, this one’s for you.

Here at DTS Plumbing & Heating, we believe in honesty, transparency, and properly brewed Yorkshire Tea. So let’s lift the lid on what a boiler service actually involves – and why it’s not just a quick wipe and a sticker.

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First things first – why service your Ideal Logic boiler?

Your boiler works hard all year round. It keeps your showers hot, your home cosy, and your pipes from freezing their brass monkeys off in winter. But like any bit of machinery, it needs some TLC to keep doing its job efficiently and safely.

• Servicing it annually:
• Ensures it’s operating safely (no one wants a carbon monoxide leak)
• Keeps it running efficiently (saving you money on energy bills)
• Reduces the risk of breakdowns
• Keeps your manufacturer warranty valid

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So, what do we  actually do on the day?

Here’s a step-by-step of what our DTS engineers get up to when we service your Ideal Logic boiler – whether it’s a Logic Combi, Logic+ or Logic Max

1. Visual Inspection

We start with a good look-over. Not a ‘squint-from-the-door’ type of inspection – we check for:

• Signs of leaks or corrosion
• Correct ventilation and flue placement
• Any obvious issues with pipework or components
• Error codes or reset history on the boiler display

Basically, we’re making sure everything looks as it should before we start pulling it apart.

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2. Check Gas Pressure & Flue

Your boiler can’t do much without a good gas supply and a safe flue system. So we:

• Measure the gas inlet pressure
• Check the working pressure with the boiler firing
• Inspect the flue terminal and internal flue joints for safety

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3. Clean the Burner & Heat Exchanger

Now we’re getting into the nitty gritty.

Ideal Logic boilers are known for being fairly easy to strip down. Our engineers will:

• Remove the burner assembly
• Clean the heat exchanger
• Inspect and clean the spark electrode and flame sensor

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4. Condensate Trap & Siphon Clean

We:

• Remove and flush the trap
• Clear out any sludge
• Make sure it’s reinstalled securely and not at risk of freezing

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5. Test All Safety Devices

We check the:

• Flame detection
• Boiler thermostat function
• Pressure relief valve
• Expansion vessel pressure (and top it up if needed)

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6. System Pressure Check & Top-Up

We’ll check the pressure and top it up to the correct level. If it’s dropping regularly, we’ll advise on the next steps (spoiler: that probably means a leak or faulty part).

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7. Clean the Magnetic Filter (if fitted)

If you’ve got one (and you should), we:

• Remove the magnet
• Clean out the sludge
• Put it back spick-and-span

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8. Check the Controls

We don’t stop at the boiler – we’ll check your thermostat, timers, and heating settings to make sure everything plays nicely together.

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9. Gas Rate & Combustion Testing

Using a flue gas analyser, we check:

• CO and CO₂ levels
• Burner pressure
• Overall combustion efficiency

If it’s not burning cleanly, we adjust things there and then.

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10. Record It All & Leave You a Report

You get a full digital (or paper) report, logged for your warranty and peace of mind. And yes, we’ll usually have finished your biscuits by this point.

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How long does it take?

A proper Ideal Logic service takes 45–60 minutes. No rush jobs. No shortcuts.

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How much does it cost?

A full service for your Ideal Logic boiler costs £120, including VAT.

Or – if you’re signed up to any of our Cosy Care Plans, it’s completely included. No extra fees, no surprises.

Check out our Cosy Care Plans here

You might save money and sleep better at night.

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Final Thoughts

So there you have it. Servicing your boiler isn’t just about ticking a box – it’s about keeping your home safe, warm, and efficient. And if you’ve got an Ideal Logic, we know exactly how to keep it purring along happily.

Ready to book your service?

 Book online here Or call us on 0114 248 3011