When it comes to bathroom renovations, the choice between tiles and solid shower panels has become one of the most talked-about topics in the construction and refurbishment industry. For decades, tiles were the default option. They were familiar, versatile, and widely understood. But in recent years, more and more tradespeople are turning to solid shower panels — and for good reason.

At Floors to Walls, we’ve seen first hand how trades are embracing this modern solution, and the reasons go far beyond convenience. From installation speed to durability, solid panels are proving to be a game-changer for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

 Installation Without Compromising Quality

One of the biggest advantages tradespeople cite is speed. Installing traditional tiles involves a series of time-consuming steps: applying adhesive, carefully laying tiles in alignment, grouting, cleaning, and waiting for everything to set. This process can take days, even for a relatively small shower enclosure.

Solid shower panels, on the other hand, come in larger sheets and often use tongue-and-groove or click-lock systems. This means panels can be fitted in a fraction of the time, without the need for grouting or painstaking alignment. For a busy tradesperson juggling multiple projects, every hour saved is significant — it can mean completing a bathroom renovation in a day rather than several.

But speed doesn’t mean compromising on quality. High-quality solid panels are engineered to be durable and robust, capable of withstanding the demands of both commercial and residential environments. Trades can install a bathroom that looks seamless, professional, and long-lasting — without the delays that come with tiles.

Durability That Holds Up Over Time

Another key reason trades are switching is durability. While ceramic tiles are strong, the weak point is almost always the grout. Over time, grout can crack, discolour, or become mouldy, creating maintenance headaches for both homeowners and landlords.

Solid shower panels eliminate that problem entirely. Because they are continuous sheets without joints, there’s nothing for water to penetrate. They resist impacts, scratches, and staining, which means that the finished bathroom maintains its pristine appearance for years.

Trades also appreciate that solid panels reduce call-backs. Fewer repairs and complaints mean happier clients and less time spent revisiting completed projects — something every tradesperson values highly.

Hygienic and Easy to Maintain

Hygiene is another important factor, especially in commercial or high-traffic properties. Bathrooms with tiles rely on grout lines, which can trap moisture and become a breeding ground for bacteria and mould. Solid shower panels create a smooth, continuous surface that is far easier to clean.

For tradespeople working in rental properties, gyms, hotels, or care homes, this is a huge advantage. They can offer their clients a bathroom that not only looks good but also meets modern hygiene standards — all without complicated cleaning routines.

Aesthetic Flexibility and Design Options

Trades are also drawn to the range of design options available with solid panels. Gone are the days when PVC panels take a battering from people. Today’s panels come in a variety of finishes, from glossy contemporary surfaces to marble-effect, stone-effect, and even sparkle finishes.

This allows tradespeople to satisfy a wide range of client preferences without needing to source multiple tile designs or pay for expensive natural stone. Panels can create the look of luxury at a fraction of the cost and installation time, while still delivering a high-end, seamless finish.

Furthermore, panels are versatile. They can be fitted in wet rooms, en-suites, or even behind kitchen sinks and splash zones. Tradespeople value a product that adapts to multiple uses without needing complex structural modifications.

Cost Efficiency: Materials and Labour

While tiles might seem cheaper per square metre at first glance, the overall cost of a tiling project often exceeds expectations due to labour, adhesive, grout, and trims. Solid shower panels simplify the process, reducing installation time and associated costs.

For trades, this means higher margins on projects. For clients, it translates into competitive pricing without compromising on quality. The balance between cost, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal is a significant reason solid panels are increasingly preferred.

Reliability and Predictable Results

For tradespeople, predictability is everything. When pricing a job, they need to know how long it will take, what materials are required, and what potential complications might arise. Traditional tiling can sometimes introduce variables — uneven walls, drying times, grout curing, and alignment challenges can all add unexpected delays.

Solid shower panels offer consistency. Once the surface is prepared correctly, the installation process is straightforward and efficient. There’s no waiting for grout to cure and no risk of inconsistent spacing. Panels are cut, fitted, sealed, and finished in a controlled sequence that experienced installers can repeat with confidence.

This predictability allows trades to quote accurately, schedule jobs tightly, and maintain professional standards without uncertainty. Fewer variables mean fewer surprises — and fewer surprises mean smoother projects and stronger reputations.

Environmental and Sustainability Considerations

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in construction, and some tradespeople choose solid panels because of their environmental benefits. Panels made from recycled or responsibly sourced materials reduce waste and energy usage during production.

For clients looking for greener home improvements, being able to offer eco-friendly shower panels is a significant advantage. It aligns with modern expectations and provides tradespeople with a product that is both high-performing and environmentally responsible.

Real-Life Trade Experiences

At Floors to Walls, we regularly hear feedback from tradespeople who have switched from tiles to solid panels. The recurring themes are speed, reliability, and happy clients. Many have told us that panels have allowed them to complete renovations in a single day, maintain consistency across multiple projects, and reduce maintenance-related call-backs.

Another advantage is client satisfaction. Homeowners often comment on how seamless the panels look compared to tiles, and the fact that there’s no grout to clean is a big selling point. Tradespeople who use solid panels can confidently market their projects as modern, hygienic, and stylish — which enhances their reputation and referrals.

Conclusion

The shift from tiles to solid shower panels is not just a trend — it’s a practical, long-term solution that benefits both tradespeople and their clients. From faster installation to durability, hygiene, design flexibility, and cost efficiency, there are clear reasons why trades are embracing this modern alternative.

For anyone in the trades, solid shower panels offer a combination of professionalism, efficiency, and client satisfaction that tiles struggle to match. And with a growing range of styles and finishes, they provide a premium look without the time-consuming process of traditional tiling.