Tiles have been standard in bathrooms for centuries, but there are different ways to renovate your bathroom without tiles. Today, we’re going over six unique ways to decorate your bathroom walls that don’t involve tiles. If you’re undecided about the suitable material for your wall, check out some of these popular options.
1. Bathroom Wall Panels
Bathroom wall panels are a 100% waterproof option for bathroom and shower room walls. Panels replicate the aesthetics of more expensive materials at a fraction of the cost. You can trim and install them yourself with relatively limited DIY skills; they’re lightweight and easy to cut to size at home. PVC wall panels are easy to clean and maintain, making them a great alternative to tiles for bathroom walls and shower cabins.
2. Marble/Granite Slabs
Marble and granite slabs are popular luxury materials for bathroom walls and floors. They have a sophisticated finish and a price tag to match. Granite is a non-porous, waterproof material that’s easy to clean. It is heavy and highly slippery when wet because of its non-porous qualities. Marble and granite are both hard-wearing materials, difficult to scratch and chip. Marble, however, is porous, making it liable to damage from cleaning chemicals and hygiene products.
3. Waterproof Paint/Wallpaper
Bathrooms are exposed to high moisture levels, so any wall covering you choose must be suited to the environment. You can apply waterproof paint for a cheap makeover. Waterproof paint and wallpaper are moisture-resistant, meaning they won’t deteriorate in wet conditions. Specialized emulsions exist which prevent mold growth, but they aren’t 100% waterproof and need updating after several years.
4. Acrylic Wall Panels
Acrylic wall panels are like PVC bathroom panels, with some minor differences (see our full comparison here). Acrylic panels are thin and lightweight too. They provide the same water-resistant barrier that prevents a buildup of soap scum, making them easy to clean. Acrylic panels are molded to different shapes, rather than having tongue-and-groove joints like PVC. They can look amazing in the right bathroom though!
5. Exposed Cement
Using exposed cement for walls gives an industrial aesthetic that’s very popular with those that like a slightly rough finish. Exposed cement is versatile, with subtle color differences like reds, browns, and blues. Leaving bathroom walls with exposed cement rather than using tiles or other materials is cheaper but prone to being very cold. Cement is porous and absorbs water without letting it pass through to other areas of your home.
6. Metal Panels
Metal wall panels usually custom-made to fit your space. Metal wall panels must be sealed by the manufacturer to protect them from ageing, adding to the cost of production. Metal is a low-maintenance option for wall paneling; it’s also very hardy, resistant to chips and scratches. It’s important to choose metal panels that are suitable for wet areas like bathrooms.
Tiles are just one of many ways to finish your bathroom with practicality and style. Learn more about our wet area panels here!
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