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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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 |
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.
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