When renovating or designing a bathroom, one often overlooked but essential element is the bath panel. Bath panels play a key role in both the functionality and aesthetics of a bathroom, concealing plumbing and protecting the bath structure while enhancing the overall look.
To help you select the most suitable bath panel, this guide covers:
- The main types of bath panels and their placement
- Common bath panel materials along with their pros and cons
- How to choose the right bath panel for your bathroom
- Installation and maintenance tips for long-lasting performance
Before diving into these details, it is important to understand exactly what a bath panel is and how it contributes to a bathroom’s design and functionality.
What is a Bath Panel?
A bath panel is a decorative and protective covering fitted to the side of a bathtub that conceals plumbing and supports the bath structure. Bath panels enhance bathroom aesthetics, prevent water damage, and hide unsightly pipes.
The main materials used for bath panels are MDF, acrylic, PVC, and timber. PVC panels are fully waterproof and require minimal maintenance, while MDF panels need a water-resistant coating to prevent swelling and warping. Acrylic panels offer a smooth, modern finish, and timber panels provide a natural, warm look but must be treated against moisture.
Bath panels are available in different designs, including plain, textured, and tiled-effect finishes, and they can accommodate standard bath dimensions or be customized for unique layouts. Properly installed panels improve bath durability and maintain a clean, cohesive bathroom appearance.
What Are the Different Types of Bath Panels?
Bath panels are primarily divided into two types based on their placement on the bathtub.
- Side Bath Panels: Side bath panels are installed along the longer side of the bathtub. They conceal plumbing, provide structural support, and create a smooth, continuous edge that enhances bathroom aesthetics.
- End Bath Panels: End bath panels cover the shorter ends of the bathtub. They are commonly used alongside side panels to achieve full coverage, protect plumbing, and maintain a cohesive, polished appearance.
Selecting the correct type depends on bathtub layout, installation requirements, and the desired design effect. Proper choice ensures plumbing remains hidden, the bath is protected from water exposure, and the overall bathroom appearance is clean and uniform.
Bath Panel Materials – Pros and Cons
Bath panels are available in various materials, each offering distinct durability, water resistance, and aesthetic qualities. Choosing the right material ensures long-lasting performance, protects plumbing, and enhances bathroom appearance.
Acrylic Bath Panels
Acrylic panels are lightweight, durable, and provide a smooth, glossy surface that is easy to maintain.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Resistant to cracking and impact
- Simple to clean and maintain
- Cost-effective compared to timber
Cons
- Surface can scratch over time
- Less premium appearance compared to timber or tiled-effect panels
MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) Bath Panels
MDF panels offer a smooth, customizable surface suitable for painting or laminating to match different bathroom designs.
Pros
- Can be painted or laminated for a tailored look
- Smooth and uniform surface
- Affordable and widely available
- Flexible design options
Cons
- Vulnerable to moisture if not properly sealed
- Requires periodic maintenance to prevent swelling
Wooden Bath Panels
Wooden panels provide a natural, warm aesthetic, ideal for traditional or classic bathroom styles.
Pros
- Natural and elegant appearance
- Durable with correct treatment
- Adds a timeless, premium feel
Cons
- Needs regular sealing or varnishing to resist water damage
- Higher cost compared to MDF or plastic
PVC / Plastic Bath Panels
PVC panels are fully waterproof, low-maintenance, and practical for bathrooms with high humidity.
Pros
- Completely water-resistant
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Minimal maintenance required
- Affordable option
Cons
- Less visually appealing than timber or acrylic
- Can crack if mishandled or under heavy impact
How Do You Measure for a Bath Panel?
Measuring for a bath panel requires accuracy to ensure a proper fit and a seamless finish. The process involves three main steps:
- Measure the Bath Length: Use a measuring tape to determine the full length of the bathtub from end to end. Record the measurement to the nearest millimetre for precision.
- Measure the Bath Height: Measure the distance from the floor to the top edge of the bathtub. This ensures the panel will cover the side fully without gaps.
- Measure the Bath Depth (for End Panels): For end panels, measure the width of the bathtub from the front edge to the wall. Include any overhang of the bath lip to avoid fitting issues
Check our complete guide on how to measure bath panel.
How Do You Choose the Right Bath Panel for Your Bathroom
Selecting the right bath panel involves evaluating material, panel type, measurements, style, and maintenance requirements to ensure durability, protect plumbing, and enhance bathroom aesthetics.
- Assess the Material: Choose a material based on water resistance, durability, and visual appeal. PVC panels are fully waterproof and low-maintenance, acrylic panels provide a smooth, modern finish, MDF panels can be painted for custom designs, and timber panels offer a natural, warm look but require moisture protection.
- Identify the Panel Type: Determine whether a side bath panel or an end bath panel is needed. Side panels cover the longer edge of the bath, while end panels protect the shorter ends. Using both types ensures full coverage and a cohesive appearance.
- Take Accurate Measurements: Measure bath length, height, and depth for end panels. Precise measurements prevent gaps, misalignment, and installation issues, ensuring a seamless fit.
- Select Style and Finish: Choose a finish that matches the bathroom décor. Options include plain, textured, tiled-effect, or timber finishes, suitable for contemporary or traditional designs.
- Consider Maintenance Requirements: Evaluate how much upkeep is acceptable. PVC and acrylic panels require minimal maintenance, whereas timber and MDF panels need periodic sealing, varnishing, or painting to retain durability.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper installation and regular maintenance of bath panels ensure durability, protect plumbing, and maintain a clean, polished bathroom appearance.
Installation Tips
- Check Measurements Before Installation: Verify bath length, height, and depth to ensure panels fit precisely without gaps.
- Use Quality Fixings: Secure panels with suitable screws, brackets, or clips to provide structural support and prevent movement.
- Seal Edges and Joints: Apply silicone or waterproof sealant along edges to prevent water seepage and protect the bath frame.
- Ensure Accessibility: For panels covering plumbing, consider removable or hinged panels for easy access during maintenance.
Maintenance Tips
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe panels with a soft cloth and mild detergent to prevent soap scum and grime buildup. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch surfaces.
- Check for Damage: Inspect panels periodically for swelling, cracks, or warping, especially on MDF or timber panels.
- Reseal When Needed: Reapply sealant along edges if water starts seeping behind panels to maintain protection.
- Avoid Excess Moisture Exposure: Prevent standing water near panel joints to extend lifespan, particularly for timber and MDF materials.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right bath panel involves selecting the appropriate material, type, size, and style to match bathroom design while ensuring durability and protection for plumbing. Accurate measurements and careful installation prevent gaps, misalignment, and water damage.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning, inspecting for damage, and resealing edges when necessary, extends the lifespan of the panels and preserves their appearance. PVC and acrylic panels offer low-maintenance solutions, while MDF and timber panels require additional care but provide customizable or natural aesthetics.
Proper selection, installation, and maintenance of bath panels create a polished, functional, and long-lasting bathroom environment.
