Homeowner demand for quicker bathroom renovations has led many professionals to choose wall panels over traditional tiles, according to the results of a new installer survey.
A study of 250 professional bathroom fitters, commissioned by Wetwall, found that every installer surveyed has used them, and almost 99% still use them today, indicating that wall panels are no longer an unfamiliar option but an installer go-to essential.
Equally, homeowners are also asking for panels over tiles, with 59% of installers say they first began using wall panels because customers specifically asked for them.
That interest from homeowners has surged in recent years, according to the survey, with 87% of installers reporting increased customer uptake in wall panels over the past one to two years.
The research shows that speed is one of the strongest forces influencing this product choice. 58% of fitters cite quicker installation and better all-round value as the reason they started using bathroom panels, while 55% adopted the product because wall panels allow them to complete projects faster than traditional tiling.
And while speed may be the main catalyst for installers, quality is a major factor in the decision process for their customers. Installers report that durability and reliability are the top priorities for homeowners (62%), followed closely by a premium finish and visual appeal (59%).
The data also reveals that wall panels are no longer confined to residential refurbishments. While this remains the largest area of use, installers report an uptake across commercial and contract projects.
Joanne Mailen, Product Lead at Wetwall, said: “This research highlights a clear shift in the way installers and homeowners are approaching bathroom projects. Wall panels are playing a significantly more important role in bathroom renovations, delivering clear benefits for both installers and homeowners.
“What was once seen as a relatively inferior alternative to tiles has become a first‑choice solution for many installers and that shift is being driven by homeowners themselves. The increased breadth of decors combined with quick, straightforward installation and product reliability, clearly appeals to homeowners who want to achieve their dream bathroom with minimal disruption. Designed to ‘fit and forget’, wall panels also remove concerns around ongoing maintenance, such as the constant upkeep that grout joints require.
“Homeowners are also beginning to use panels far beyond the bathroom environment. Installers tell us that customers value being able to instantly update and transform multiple rooms throughout the home; including utility spaces, boot rooms and cloakrooms. It’s the same for commercial clients where speed of installation, design and long-term performance are key. It’s these factors that are driving category growth and encouraging more customers to opt for wall panels over traditional tiling.”
Image: Wetwall
