Help & Advice
PVC bathroom panel FAQs
Straight answers on waterproofing, fitting, measuring, samples, delivery and caring for your bathroom wall panels.

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31 answers
What are PVC bathroom wall panels?
PVC bathroom wall panels are rigid wall panels used to create a waterproof, grout free finish in bathrooms and shower areas when the complete system is correctly fitted and sealed.
Are PVC bathroom wall panels waterproof?
Yes. BPD PVC bathroom wall panels are suitable for wet bathroom areas when the panels, joints, trims and sealant are installed correctly.
Can I use bathroom panels in a shower?
Yes. PVC bathroom panels can be used on shower walls when they are correctly fitted, joined, trimmed and sealed for the installation.
What size are BPD PVC bathroom wall panels?
The standard BPD PVC bathroom wall panel size is 1000 × 2400 × 10 mm, giving 2.4 m² of coverage per full panel where that specification applies.
Are bathroom panels an alternative to tiles?
Yes. Panels cover larger wall areas with fewer joints and do not use traditional grout. Tiles are still suitable for many projects, so the right choice depends on the room and the finish you prefer.
Can PVC panels be fitted over existing tiles?
They can be fitted over existing tiles when the tiles are secure and the surface is clean, dry and sufficiently flat. Loose or unstable tiles should be dealt with before installation.
How do I measure for bathroom wall panels?
Measure the width and height of every wall section you want to cover. Keep each wall measurement separate so you can work out full panels and useful offcuts. Our measuring guide gives a step by step example. Read more.
How do I know how many panels I need?
Divide each wall width by the usable panel width and round up where needed. BPD panel product pages also include a calculator to help estimate the number of full panels required.
What adhesive should I use for BPD bathroom panels?
Soudal Grip All Hybrid Polymer is BPD's recommended adhesive for the PVC bathroom panel range. Always make sure the wall surface is stable, clean and suitable before bonding. Read more.
How much adhesive do I need?
For BPD PVC bathroom wall panels, allow two adhesive tubes per full panel. Installation kits are also available to group the main fitting products together. Read more.
Do I need trims?
Trims give a cleaner finish at internal corners, external corners, exposed edges and straight panel joins. The trim collection includes profile drawings to help you choose the correct type. Read more.
How do I cut PVC bathroom panels?
Use a suitable fine tooth saw or other appropriate cutting tool, support the panel properly and measure carefully before cutting. Openings and pipe cuts should be planned before the panel is bonded to the wall.
Can I install the panels myself?
Many customers fit PVC panels themselves. Accurate measuring, clean cuts, the correct adhesive and careful sealing matter. If you are unsure about a wet area installation, use a competent fitter.
How do I clean PVC bathroom panels?
Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a mild non abrasive cleaner. Avoid abrasive pads and aggressive solvents that could scratch or dull the decorative surface. Read more.
Do PVC bathroom panels help with mould?
The PVC face is non porous and easy to wipe clean, but panels do not fix the cause of damp or condensation. Good ventilation and dealing with leaks or persistent moisture are still important.
How much is Premium Rapid Delivery?
Premium Rapid Delivery is free for qualifying addresses within 28 miles of our Newton Abbot hub. Outside the local free delivery area, delivery is free on orders of £150 or more and £30 on orders under £150. View delivery information.
How long does delivery take?
Premium Rapid Delivery is estimated at 1 to 7 working days. Timing can vary by route, location and availability. View delivery information.
Will my panels be carried into the property?
When an order is delivered by the BPD team, room of choice delivery is available where access allows, at no additional cost. View delivery information.
How do samples work?
Use the Sample Hub to choose up to four samples, with a maximum of one of each design. Samples are free and postage is £1.99 per sample pack. Handling is normally 1 to 2 working days, followed by delivery via InPost taking up to 72 hours after dispatch. Read more.
What should I do if an order arrives damaged?
Check the delivery when it arrives. If you see damage, photograph the goods and packaging and contact BPD as soon as possible with your order details. Do not install damaged items.
Can I return panels or fitting products?
Eligible change of mind returns of full size panels are collected by Bathroom Panels Direct using our own fleet. A £35 collection charge applies and is deducted from the refund. Returned panels are normally inspected within 2 working days after collection. For a full refund, panels must meet the condition and original protective packaging requirements set out in our Returns and Refunds Policy. Your statutory rights are not affected. View the Returns and Refunds Policy.
Do you offer trade pricing?
Yes. Approved Bathroom Panels Direct Trade customers receive 7% off eligible full price panels and 15% off eligible full price trims. When signed into the approved Trade account, qualifying discounts are applied automatically. Adhesives and sealants are excluded unless Bathroom Panels Direct states otherwise. Read more.
Can I see the panels before I buy?
Yes. You can order samples online or visit the Bathroom Panels Direct showroom in Newton Abbot to compare finishes in person. Check the showroom page for current visiting information. Read more.
Are the panels fire rated?
Yes. The current BPD PVC panel specification is Class 1 fire rated for surface spread of flame. This classification relates to the panel surface and does not make the panels a substitute for specialist fire protection where a project requires it.
Are the panels themselves mould resistant?
Yes. The non porous PVC surface is mould resistant and easy to wipe clean. Good ventilation is still important because condensation can allow mould to form on surface dirt, sealant or other damp areas around the room.
Why can mould return even after cleaning?
Mould can return if the underlying moisture problem remains. Common causes include condensation, poor ventilation, an extractor fan that is not clearing moisture effectively, leaks or persistently cold damp surfaces.
Can shower panels develop mould over time?
The PVC panel face does not absorb water, but mould can still develop on surface deposits or ageing sealant if moisture is allowed to remain. Keep the room ventilated and maintain the silicone seals around wet areas.
Does the wall behind the panels need waterproofing?
When fitted correctly, the panels, trims and sealant form the finished waterproof wall lining. The surface behind them should still be sound, dry and suitable for fixing. Where the background is damaged, persistently damp or a project needs extra wet area protection, use an appropriate water resistant board or tanking system before fitting.
Should a fitter be booked before panels arrive?
We recommend waiting until your panels, trims and fitting products have arrived and been checked before fixing a fitter date. This avoids booking labour before you know the full order is on site and ready to install.
Can bleach be used on the panels?
Do not apply neat bleach directly to the panels. For routine cleaning use warm water and a mild non abrasive cleaner. If you use a diluted household cleaner that contains bleach, follow its instructions, test a small area first and rinse the surface afterwards.
Can the panels discolour over time?
Our Luxury Matt ProShield range includes added UV resistance to help protect the colour and finish. Surface features vary between ranges, so check the individual product information for the panel you are considering. As with decorative surfaces generally, prolonged strong sunlight and harsh cleaning chemicals should be avoided.
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