Modern homeowners are increasingly choosing Waterproof bathroom panels instead of tiles for faster renovations. And that is because the bathroom panels offer a cleaner and more seamless finish than traditional tiling. As well, this is a wet place that demands waterproof surfaces like panels and durability.
The panels reduce installation complexity by making bathroom upgrades simpler and more accessible by following the instructions within the panels, which require adhesive to secure the panel correctly to the wall.
Using panels for bathrooms is a good choice because it suits both small and large bathrooms, and it supports contemporary design trends and minimal interiors. The panels also feature a lightweight structure that makes them safer and easier to handle during installation.
Why Choose Bathroom Panels Instead of Tiles?
Nowadays, homeowners choose bathroom panels instead of tiles Canada due to their 100% waterproof protection and seamless surface that prevents mold growth. Besides, the panels are easier and faster to install compared to tiles, as they require minimal surface preparation, saving time and labor costs.
If you need professional advice, choose bathroom panels to create a clean, modern look with fewer joints and grout lines. As they require low maintenance, requiring simple cleaning without grout scrubbing. Bathroom panels are lighter than tiles, reducing wall load and structural stress. And also offers excellent durability and resistance to cracking, chipping, and impact.
In a nutshell, why choose bathroom panels over tiles? They offer better hygiene, as smooth surfaces prevent bacteria buildup, and it comes at an effective cost for both renovations and new builds.
Bathroom Wall Panels vs Tiles Cost
Here are the main differences between the Bathroom panels instead of tiles cost, installation, material, and features.
- Cost: The bathroom wall panels feature a lower cost in installation, panel, and shipping than traditional tiles. As well, the panel can be installed over existing tiles, reducing the elimination costs.
- Installation: The tiles require specialized labor, but panels don’t require; reducing labor hours and service charges.
- Material requirements: the title requires additional materials such as grout, adhesive, spacers, and sealers, adding to the cost.
- Waterproof: Bathroom panels usually include integrated waterproof layers, minimizing extra material expenses.
- Maintenance: The wall panels require minimal maintenance compared to tiles.
- Repairing process and cost: the tiles take more time to repair and cost more than bathroom panels.
The Key Benefits of Waterproof Bathroom Panels
The key benefits of Waterproof wall panels for bathroom include offering a moisture-protective surface that prevents water from penetrating behind the walls, as well as reducing mold and mildew growth, which improves bathroom hygiene.
The bathroom wall panel creates a sealed surface that reduces the risk of long-term water damage. Ideal to use in high-humidity areas such as showers and wet rooms. They are easy to clean and lighter than tiles and do not require grout, which removes a common source of water leakage and staining. Also, it is suitable for direct installation over existing surfaces
Velvet Interior and Design offers waterproof paneling for shower walls that are resistant to cracking and chipping caused by temperature changes and water. Overall, it is a good purchase due to its durable material, low maintenance, and long-lasting protection for bathrooms.

Budget and Installation Factors
- Panels are more affordable than tiles when material and labor costs are combined.
- It has a shorter installation time.
- Panels can be installed directly over existing tiles or drywall.
- There are no required tools for the installation process.
- It is a DIY-friendly system that is easy for homeowners to install.
- It is a lightweight material with an affordable cost and a durable surface.
- Fewer materials are needed; no spacers, grout, or sealers.
- Available in a wide price range, making them suitable for different budgets.
- It requires minimal surface preparation compared to tile installation.
- The adhesive-based installation reduces the need for drilling or wall damage.
- Replacement of damaged panels is easier and less expensive compared to other options.
How to Install Bathroom Wall Panels Over Tiles
At first, you have to check the tile condition and ensure the existing tiles are firmly attached to the wall, and it has no cracks or loose areas before installation.
Then, clean the tiled surface of soap residue, grease, mold, and dust so the adhesive bonds properly.
Repair uneven tiles by filling the deep grout lines or uneven sections with filler to create a smooth surface.
After that, measure the wall height and width accurately to minimize panel cutting and material waste.
Then see if the panels are the wall size by placing the panels against the wall without adhesive, then cut the panels to size using a fine-tooth saw or utility knife for a clean.
Apply strong panel adhesive in vertical lines or a zigzag pattern, and then press the panels firmly into the tiles. Then, apply waterproof silicone sealant at corners, edges, and around fixtures.
At the end, allow adhesive to cure and avoid using water for at least 24 hours.
Disadvantages of Shower Panels
Discover the disadvantages of installing a shower panel from the following points:
- The bathroom panels can be damaged if it exposed to extremely high heat or steam for long periods.
- The real tiles in the bathrooms offer the feel of natural appearnce.
- If the installation is not accurate the joints may be noticeable.
- There is different panels quality in the martket the ow quality ones may fade, crack, or discolor over time.
- The less design options, as the tiles allow custom patterns and layouts, while panels come in fixed designs.
- Repair can require full panel replacement.
Are Bathroom Panels Better Than Tiles?
The choice of bathroom panels could be better than tiles because it has a faster installation time than tiles, costs less in material, labor, and preparation, and is 100% waterproof material for the high-quality ones. As well, the panels are easy to maintain, not like tiles.
Panels can be installed directly over tiles, saving demolition costs. Also, it often gives the feel of being warmer and more comfortable than cold tile surfaces.
Where to Buy High-Quality Bathroom Wall Panels in Canada
You will find the high-quality bathroom wall panels in Canada at Velvet Interior and Design, which offers a wide selection of premium bathroom wall panels designed for both style and durability. The bathroom panels are chosen to withstand moisture, humidity, and daily use, making them ideal for showers and wet areas.
The team at Velvet Interior and Design provides expert design advice, helping homeowners select the best panel style for their bathroom space. The panes are easy to install, and the company offers guidance on how to install bathroom wall panels over tiles or drywall.
You can choose a bathroom wall panel from the following:
- X Series
- R Series
- 3D Panels
- Matte Panels
Ready to refresh your home? Explore elegant decorative wall panels and find your perfect style with Velvet Interior.
PVC UV Marble Sheets A Waterproof Wall Solutions
PVC UV marble sheets are a practical and elegant choice for modern interiors, especially when looking for durable pvc bathroom wall panels canada homeowners trust for moisture resistance, easy cleaning, and a sleek marble-look finish.
FAQ about Bathroom Panels Instead of Tiles
Are panels better than tiles in a bathroom?
Yes, the panels are better than tiles in a bathroom because they are faster to install than traditional tiles, as they create a grout-free surface, reducing mold and mildew issues. Although the waterproof panels offer consistent moisture protection across the wall.
As well, the panels are easier to clean and maintain long-term. And the installation costs are usually lower than tiling, as is the panel cost, and repairing doesn’t cost as much as other materials.
What are the disadvantages of shower panels?
The disadvantages of shower panels are:
- Lower-quality panels may look less realistic than real tile.
- Scratches can appear if abrasive cleaners are used.
- Limited customization compared to tile patterns.
- Heat resistance is lower than ceramic tile.
- Damaged panels may need full replacement.
What can I use instead of tiles in my bathroom?
You can use waterproof PVC wall panels instead of tiles in my bathroom, and there are Shower wall panels that look like tile, and acrylic bathroom wall panels.
Is panelling a good idea for a bathroom?
Yes, paneling is a good idea for a bathroom; it’s designed to handle moisture and humidity and offers a modern and clean look. It features easy maintenance, and installation is faster than tiles; it is suitable for bathrooms, showers, and wet zones.
Are shower panels as good as tiles?
Yes, the shower panels are as good as tiles in waterproof material when they are installed correctly, but the panels require less maintenance than tiles and are faster in the installation process than tiles. On the other hand, the tile-look panels mimic ceramic aesthetics.
What can I use on shower walls instead of tiles?
You can use Shower panels instead of tiles Canada, such as the waterproof shower panels instead of tiles, or PVC shower panels, soft stone wall panels, or marble-look PVC panels.
Is it cheaper to tile or panel a shower?
The Shower panels instead of tiles cost usually cost less to install than tiles, but the panels reduce labor time significantly; no grout or mortar materials are required. As well, the panels can be installed over existing tiles. But the tiling requires skilled labor, which increases cost.
Panels reduce future maintenance expenses, but the tile repairs are more expensive than panel replacement.

