How to Fit Shower Wall Panels

Is your bathroom looking old and outdated with grubby grout and tired tiles? Well, here’s an easy switch that’ll have it feeling fresh and fancy in next to no time.

Shower wall panels have become a popular option for bathroom renovations in recent years. Due to their versatile nature, they’re great for a feature wall as well as a replacement for tiles or wallpaper throughout an entire bathroom.

If you’re considering having them fitted and want to know how invasive the process will be, or you’re an experienced DIY-er and want some guidance on how to install them, check out our step-by-step guide below and get your renovation over the finish line!

What are the benefits of using shower panels?

When choosing your bathroom wall coverings, there are several options you could choose. However, in splash zones, like the internal walls of your shower enclosure, the area above your bath and the space behind your basin, you will need a more watertight solution that offers better protection.

Many people opt for tiles, as they offer a very hardwearing surface that is impervious to water. However, these days, many more people are choosing shower wall panels which can also be used right around your bathroom.

The benefits of shower wall panels vs. tiles are clear to see:

• Quick and easy installation—can be fitted up to 6 times faster than tiles, with no need for a specialist tiler.
• Cost-effective—many shower wall panels cost less per square metre than tiles
• 100% watertight with no need for grout
• Easy to clean—a simple wipe with a cloth is all that's needed
• Can be fitted over existing wall coverings like tiles—no need to remove your old tiles first
• Limitless stylish design options (which we'll explore below)
• Lengthy guarantees—for added peace of mind

What types of shower panels can I use?

There are 3 main types of shower wall panel. These are PVC, acrylic and MDF. Each has their own advantages. PVC panels are completely waterproof, light weight and have a small amount of flex in them due to their hollow centre. This makes them great for imperfect surfaces.  For acrylic shower panels the key features are a slimmer build, a high gloss finish and that they are completely waterproof. MDF panels when laminated are also completely waterproof, they’re easy to install and very cost effective. 

How to fit shower wall panels in your bathroom

Installation instructions may vary slightly depending on which brand and design you choose. So, always consult the instruction manual when installing your product.

The installation kit should include fitting guide, dual-purpose clear adhesive sealant, a roll of foam tape, sanding pad, tile spacers and a silicone finishing tool.

You will also need:

• Caulking gun
• Safety goggles
• Tape measure
• Sharp blade
• Electric or fine tooth saw

Step 1: Measure your walls 

You’ll need to measure the entire area of the wall you want to cover. This will let you know how many shower wall panels you will need. Luckily, most shower wall panels can be installed over any surface, so don’t worry if you already have plaster or tiles on your wall.

Prior to installation, it is strongly recommended that you condition your panels, by laying them down flat in the bathroom in which they will be fitted (or a similar environment) for a period of between 48–72 hours. Don’t rest them at an angle against walls, or between supporting structures.

Step 2: Cut panels to size 

Hopefully only a few, if any, of your panels will need cutting to size. We have a variety of width options to make the installation process easier! To cut your panels to size, mark out the area you need to remove with masking tape. This will also protect the edges of the board when you cut the panel. We recommend using a hand saw or electric saw for this process.

Step 3: Sand your panels

Sand down any of the edges you might have cut to size, as well as the back of the boards you are using. This should create texture and make the board coarse which will allow adhesives to stick better to the surface.

Step 4: Add sealant to the back of the panel 

Next you need to add the sealant to the back of your shower wall panel. How much you will need will depend on the sealant you have but be sure to roughly cover the area of the board.

Step 5: Fit the panel to the wall 

Now you can place your panel onto the wall. It’s best to start in the corner and work your way across. Many panels have a tongue and groove fitting feature to lock the panels together. Ensure these are locked in as you press the board against the wall. To keep them in place as they dry it’s a good idea to place tile spacers below each board. This will also allow for room for sealant along the bottom of the boards to ensure a waterproof seal. 

Step 6: Repeat the process

Repeat this process across the rest of your wall ensuring that any tongue and groove joints are connected for a seamless finish.

Bathroom wall panels are a quick and easy alternative to tiles. Add in some fantastic Victorian Plumbing products and your bathroom makeover is complete.