Why more people are opting for wall panels

From bath to shower: comfort above all

“More and more people are choosing to replace their bathtub with a shower,” Wim explains. “We mainly see this in renovation projects, especially among slightly older customers who value comfort and accessibility. Thanks to modern materials such as wall panels, there’s no need to remove the old tiles — the panels can simply be glued directly onto the existing walls. This means far less demolition work and a bathroom that’s renewed in no time.”

What exactly are wall panels?

Wall panels are flat, waterproof sheets used to finish bathroom walls. Most commonly in the shower or above the bathtub, but nowadays also around wall-hung toilets. “They can be installed directly over existing tiles, without any demolition,” Wim explains. “Depending on the manufacturer, they are between 3 and 9 mm thick and made of acrylic, solid surface, or aluminium sandwich panels with a 3D print.”

The panels are glued directly onto the wall, making joints unnecessary. “That’s the big difference compared to tiles,” says Wim. “Wall panels create a seamless finish that looks sleek and is extremely easy to maintain.”

Pinterest versus reality

As we live in increasingly compact homes, designing our bathrooms requires even more thoughtful choices. Wim notices that many customers dream of a luxurious bathroom, even in a limited space. “They draw inspiration from Pinterest and want everything in their bathroom: a bathtub, a shower, a double vanity, tall storage units… But when you only have 5 m², you have to make choices. A well-designed layout and clean materials such as wall panels help create a sense of calm and spaciousness.”

Fast renovation without demolition

The popularity of wall panels is growing rapidly today — and not by coincidence. They combine comfort, aesthetics and speed in one solution. “Renovating with wall panels is much faster than with tiles,” Wim explains. “There’s no need for a waterproofing membrane, as the panels themselves are already waterproof. A professional can often install wall panels in a single day. And because they are installed directly over existing tiles, there’s no demolition work or dust.” Wall panels are also extremely practical when it comes to maintenance. “There are no joints where dirt or mould can build up. A quick wipe with a mild cleaning product is enough. Especially for people with busy lives or anyone looking for a low-maintenance bathroom, that’s a major advantage.”

Also suitable for DIY enthusiasts?

Although wall panels are relatively easy to install, Wim still recommends working with a professional. “The panels are large and can be difficult to handle, and a single cutting mistake can immediately become very costly. You also need specific tools, such as a diamond saw to cut the panels to size or a diamond drill to install your shower fittings. Moreover, a professional installer often works faster and more cleanly — and for homes older than 10 years, you also benefit from the reduced VAT rate of 6%.”