Tiles vs. wall panels: Which bathroom wall covering offers better value?

Let’s cut straight to it: when you’re deciding between tiles and wall panels for your bathroom walls, it’s not just about cost. It’s about value – over time, over cleaning cycles, over late-night repair jobs.

Tiles carry prestige. They’re timeless, textured, and the go-to for decades. Wall panels? They’re the disruptor – quick to install, easy to clean, and quietly pushing grout out of the spotlight.

This guide breaks it all down – costs, effort, performance – so you can decide what’s worth your time, money, and weekend.

What Are Tiles and Wall Panels (and Why Should You Care)?

Tiles are individual pieces – usually ceramic or porcelain – fixed to your walls using adhesive, then sealed with grout. Each tile is a statement. Multiply that by 200 and you’ve got a full wall of charm… and maintenance.

Wall panels, by contrast, are large sheets. Think 2.4 metres tall, smooth, and cut to fit. Most are made from PVC or acrylic and slot together with tongue-and-groove edges. They aim to do in hours what tiles do in days – and without the fuss.

This isn’t just a style choice. The format you pick will affect your budget, your builder’s timeline, and your Saturday morning cleaning routine.

If you’re refurbishing a rental, panels are often a pragmatic win. If you’re restoring a period home, tiles may still be worth the grout brush.

How Much Do They Really Cost?

On paper, panels look cheaper – and in most scenarios, they are. Installation takes less time, which means lower labour charges.

Tiling a standard UK bathroom wall might cost £700–£1,000 in labour. Add £300–£600 for materials, depending on the type of tile you choose. Panels for the same area? Often between £400 and £800 installed.

But cost isn’t just materials, it’s time, disruption, and the cost of decision-making in the wider project. For example, if you're also trying to decide whether to renovate your kitchen or bathroom first, saving a few days on bathroom labour might help sequence the wider work.

Panels usually win on cost – but it’s the context of the renovation that really sets the score.

Do Panels Install Faster Than Tiles?

In almost every case, yes. A skilled fitter can install panels in less than a day. Tiles, on the other hand, often take two to three days – longer if walls need prepping or waterproofing.

Tiles require precision: aligning, spacing, grouting. Panels go up in full sheets. Less cutting, less dust, less mess. If you’re pairing the bathroom with a new electric shower or combi boiler, the speed and sequencing of work matters.

From a project management point of view, panels help keep things moving. That alone has value.

Why Maintenance Isn’t Just an Afterthought

Wall panels are remarkably low maintenance. No grout means fewer opportunities for mould, mildew, or discolouration to set in.

Tiles, while attractive, demand upkeep. Grout will always be a weak point – it stains, cracks, and often needs resealing. If you're installing wall coverings alongside underfloor heating, regular moisture cycles can accelerate grout wear. (We go deeper into this in our article on underfloor heating vs radiators in bathrooms).

For busy homes, low maintenance matters – not just in terms of time but also in ongoing cost.

What About Looks – Are Tiles Still Winning?

Tiles win on texture, pattern, and flexibility. The ability to mix finishes or create a feature wall can transform a space.

But don’t underestimate modern panels. What was once a white plastic sheet is now a credible imitation of marble, concrete, slate, or woodgrain. High-gloss options bounce light and suit compact rooms, while matt finishes pair well with industrial or modern interiors.

In reality, both suit different looks. A tiled wall may pair better with a traditional vanity unit, while panels lean toward modern schemes with concealed cisterns and clean lines.

Design freedom still leans toward tiles, but panels are far from limited.

How Do They Handle Water and Wear?

Both can be fully waterproof – but the success depends on proper installation.

Tiles themselves are waterproof, but grout lines are porous. Sealing is essential, and silicone joins must be maintained. Wall panels often have interlocking seams, meaning fewer joins and less reliance on sealant. This makes them a popular choice for wet rooms and shower enclosures. (You might also compare them with other options in our guide to tiled vs acrylic shower enclosures).

As for impact resistance? Tiles are strong but brittle. One dropped item could cause a crack. Panels are slightly more forgiving, especially in high-use family bathrooms.

Why You Might Still Choose Tiles (or Not)

We believe tiles are ideal for high-end homes, period properties, or anyone committed to aesthetic detail. They carry design authority and can add perceived value during resale.

But for time-sensitive or budget-driven renovations, wall panels simply make sense. They install fast, cost less, and don’t demand weekends of upkeep.

In our experience, tiled bathrooms get all the compliments – but paneled ones tend to be the workhorses people quietly recommend to friends.

Verdict – Which One Offers Better Value?

Wall panels offer more measurable value for money – lower costs, faster fit, minimal maintenance. Tiles provide aesthetic flexibility and may boost long-term appeal in the right property. Each has its place.

Our recommendation? Define your priorities – then choose accordingly. A great bathroom isn't just about finish. It's about how well it fits your lifestyle, your property, and your plans.