Shower panels are alternatives to wall tiles that are completely waterproof, thus making them ideal for use in bathrooms, wet rooms, and en suits. Because they are still relatively new to the market, many people are still unsure as to what they are and where they can be used. This is why we have put together this handy guide. 

What are they made from?

Although shower panels do come in a range of different materials, the most common types are MDF with a laminated vinyl, acrylic, and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). It is the composition of the panel that impacts on how much it costs. 

• MDF with a laminated vinyl - out of the three materials mentioned above, it is this kind that is the most heavy duty, being both heavier and thicker than the others. However, because of this, it is the most expensive option. Because it has a laminated surface on both sides, MDF panels are fully waterproof. This makes them not only very hygienic, but also super durable. 

• Acrylic -  at just between 4 mm and 5 mm thick, these types of shower panels are the most slimline of all the different materials. Despite them being so thin, they are actually heavier than what the PVC ones are, because the material is that much denser. Typically they come in bold and bright colours, and can even have a partly transparent finish. They are both highly durable and very hygienic.

• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) - with PVC being one of the most abundant man made plastics, it is no surprise then that it is the cheapest of all the shower panel materials. It can be formed into either flexible or rigid forms, thus making it ideal to use as a shower panel. Because the core is not made up of a completely solid mass, PVC is very light.

Regardless of what material you decide to use, if you head to wall panels Glasgow, they will have something to suit your needs. In addition to the various different materials, they also stock shower panels in different colours and with different finishes, such as sparkle. However, it is the marble type finishes that prove the most popular with customers.

Installing shower panels

When it comes to what type of wall surfaces shower panels can be affixed upon, it is pretty much the same as what regular wall tiles can be attached to. However, they are much more forgiving than what tiles are when put onto surfaces that are not level. If you have to, shower panels can be put directly onto wall tiles. As is the case with any type of wall covering, it is best to install a shower panel onto a surface that has been freshly plastered and is water sealed. 

Depending on the composition of the shower panels and the directions given by the manufacturer, the procedure for installing them will vary slightly. However, despite of that, the process of installing them should all be pretty straight forward, requiring a lot less time and effort than conventional wall tiles.