Waterproof Bathroom Wall Panels
Are bathroom wall panels truly waterproof, or is it simply a sales pitch? One of the most frequently asked questions before tile replacement is it. Sadly, the answer is “it depends on the material and how it is installed. The best bathroom wall waterproof panels prevent all the moisture from entering and last for years in bathroom wet rooms. Some others constructed of the wrong material may permit water to penetrate over the course of time. This guide explains what really constitutes a waterproof panel and what materials can withstand it, as well as how to determine it before purchasing. This information is based on first-hand experience in Calgary bathrooms installed by Glossy Decors every week. At the end, you will be able to tell what to look for and why it is important.
What Does “Waterproof” Actually Mean?
The terms waterproof and water-resistant are used interchangeably by many. They don’t. A truly waterproof panel is one that will not allow water to seep through the panel itself if exposed to water continuously. A Waterproof material only temporarily slows the water down. Some woods and basic laminates are in this classification. Moisture may still penetrate the shower over a period of many months and swell or cause damage to the shower. To be a true bathroom wall waterproof panel, the core must be solid enough and not be porous. This is the first thing to look at when deciding on any panel to use for a wet room.
Which Materials Are Truly Waterproof?
Not all panels offered for bathrooms are constructed in the same manner. Here’s the comparison of the prime materials:
- Stone Plastic Composite panels have a tight and fully waterproof core material. This renders SPC shower wall panels perfect for consistent water exposure.
- WPC panels: Wood Plastic Composite is good at resisting moisture and will not collapse in humid rooms.
- PVC-based panels: light and completely waterproof, suitable for use at low cost for PVC Bathroom Wall Panels in splash areas and in complete bathrooms.
This is not the case with solid wood and untreated MDF materials. This is why it is important to choose a material rather than the appearance that is visible on the surface. However, a smooth exterior can cover up an unsound structure on the interior. The real bathroom wall waterproof panels are waterproof from the inside out.
Why Installation Matters as Much as Material
Even a well-waterproofed panel can fail if it is not installed properly. The gaps at the joints allow water to penetrate behind the panel. This is an aspect which many buyers don’t consider at all. Glossy Decors’ installation method is no different for any project, and the waterproofing lasts for everyday use. If it’s broken, even the finest raincoat leaks. The same applies to wall panels in a shower and/or bathroom. Material quality and installation quality must go hand in hand, not one without the other.
Bathroom Wall Panels vs. Tile: Which Handles Water Better?
This is the problem is solved by a wall panel with much fewer seams. There are designs that feature virtually no apparent joints throughout a wall. Fewer seams, fewer opportunities for water to leak in. This is one of the reasons why panels are the current trend in Calgary bathroom renovations instead of tile. The less grout there is, the less scrubbing there will be, and the cleaner it will look for longer.
Do Waterproof Panels Prevent Mold and Mildew?
The waterproof panels can drastically reduce the chances of mold growth as opposed to tiled walls. With no grout line to hold moisture, there just isn’t as much surface for mold to grow on. This is one of the main drivers for homeowners to replace panels.
However, panels are not entirely resistant to mold. Even if a bathroom is not well vented, it may still be able to grow mold in the long run on any surface. Combined with bathroom wall waterproof panels, good airflow provides the best long-term result.
Local Climate Considerations for Calgary Bathrooms
Calgary’s climate ranges from dry winters to humid summer storms. These changes create increased pressure on materials on the walls that are not resilient to change. A good panel that will work well in one season should work well in another. This type of transition is managed better with SPC and WPC panels. This is more important than in less extreme and more stable climates. It is why Glossy Decors suggests that composite materials are used in the majority of the projects that we perform in Calgary. This is a common problem that is often first observed by homeowners renovating their basement, ensuite, or an older home. The walls, which are fine initially, begin to warp and peel after a couple of seasons. If you select real bathroom wall waterproof panels from the beginning, you will not have to deal with this issue.
How to Check If a Panel Is Truly Waterproof
Here are some quick points to check before purchasing any panel:
- Find out what the primary material is, rather than the surface finish.
- Request a spec sheet or written waterproof rating from the supplier.
- Check for sealed joints and trims.
- Note whether it’s rated for direct showering or just for splash zones.
- Request a sample panel to evaluate seam design and finish.
It’s a quick checklist to help you avoid a costly error down the road. A few minutes of inspection now will save years of moisture issues in the future. A few common misconceptions about Waterproof Wall Panels. Some misconceptions about Waterproof Wall Panels.
Common Myths About Waterproof Wall Panels
Myth: Wall panels are all waterproof by default. This isn’t true. It is entirely dependent upon the core material used.
There is a myth that if a panel is waterproof, there is no maintenance required, which is not true: Regular panel cleaning and proper airflow in the room are essential.
Myth: Panels are not able to be installed over existing tile. As long as the surface is flat and prepped, they can in most cases.
Myth: Mistakes made by the mixing of cheap and expensive panels with waterproof panels are the cause of these myths. Knowing what to look for is a great help in distinguishing fact from marketing.
Why Calgary Homeowners Choose Glossy Decors
Glossy Decors can provide and fit SPC shower wall panels and WPC panel panels made to withstand real bathroom environments. All of our panels have a true waterproof core, not a surface seal. This is backed up by professional installation and a customer satisfaction guarantee. We also provide free estimates on all Calgary bathroom renovations. We can assist you in deciding between PVC shower panels, SPC, or WPC based on the space and budget. That’s the reason why our homeowners in Calgary have come to trust us with their home renovations. As such, do bathroom wall panels resist water? The correct ones certainly are, and SPC and WPC bathroom wall waterproof panels are here to prove it. It’s all about selecting the right material and installing it right. If you get this right, your bathroom will not become damp and will not become a breeding ground for mould for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do SPC shower wall panels have 100% waterproofing?
Yes. SPC panels are dense, non-porous, and will not allow any water to pass through them, making them suitable for showers.
Will bathroom wall panels fit into a shower?
Yes, however, they must be rated for wet areas and have sealed joints and the correct trims.
Do waterproof wall panels require grout?
No. Waterproof panels have little or no grout, so there is less risk of mold and less time to clean.
Can wall panels be installed over bathroom tile?
Yes, in most cases, if the tile surface has been flat, clean, and prepared correctly first.
How long do waterproof bathroom wall panels typically last?
If installed correctly, quality panels such as SPC or WPC can provide an exceptionally long life and require very little maintenance over their lifespan, potentially more than 10 years.
Request a Free Quote Today
Still uncertain what type of waterproof panel the bathroom needs? Give us a call at Glossy Decors and get honest, experience-based advice. Get a dry, clean, and beautiful bathroom for years with a FREE quote today. Or follow us on Facebook for more details.