Important: Ensure you use adhesive and sealant specifically formulated for shower environments. Standard products may fail when exposed to constant moisture and temperature fluctuations.

Acclimatise Your Panels

Prepare the Wall Surface

Measuring & Planning

Cutting Guidelines

Safety Tip: Always wear safety goggles and gloves when cutting shower panels. Some materials can create fine dust that should not be inhaled - consider using a dust mask.

Sealing For Waterproofing

Meticulous sealing is critical for shower panel installations:

• Apply bathroom-grade silicone sealant along all panel joints and edges
• Create a watertight seal where panels meet the shower tray or bath
• Seal around all fixture cut-outs (shower controls, heads, pipes, etc.)
• Apply silicone between any panel/trim junctions
• Use masking tape on either side of joints for clean, professional sealant lines
• Smooth sealant beads with a silicone tool or wet finger for a neat finish

Pay extra attention to the bottom edge where panels meet the shower tray, this area is most susceptible to water ingress.

Fixture Finishing

• Install shower control cover plates and fixture trims
• Apply a thin bead of silicone around cover plates where they meet the panel
• For shower heads, ensure any escutcheon plates are properly sealed
• Fit accessory mounts (soap dishes, shower baskets, etc.) according to manufacturer instructions

Final Cleaning

• Remove any remaining protective film from panels
• Clean panels with a soft cloth and mild, non-abrasive bathroom cleaner
• Remove any adhesive residue with products recommended by panel manufacturer
• Wipe down trims and fixtures
• Check all sealant lines for completeness and smoothness

Important: Allow at least 24 hours for adhesive and sealant to cure completely before using the shower. Check manufacturer guidelines as some products may require longer curing times.

Properly installed shower panels create a sleek, waterproof shower enclosure that's both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The seamless finish eliminates grout lines that typically harbour mould and mildew, drastically reducing maintenance requirements.

Follow the care instructions provided with your specific panels to maintain their appearance and performance for years to come.

What are the advantages of shower panels over traditional tiles?

Shower panels offer several advantages over tiles: they're 100% waterproof with no grout lines to harbour mould or mildew, installation is significantly faster (typically 1-2 days versus 3-5 days for tiling), they're lower maintenance requiring only regular cleaning with no re-grouting or sealing, and they provide a seamless modern appearance. Additionally, panels can be installed over existing tiles in some cases, reducing demolition work and associated costs.

Which panel material is best for shower installations?

The best material depends on your specific requirements. Acrylic panels offer excellent waterproofing and are available in many designs but can be prone to scratches. PVC panels are highly water-resistant and budget-friendly but may have fewer design options. Composite panels combine durability with aesthetic versatility but typically come at a higher price point. For long-term performance in heavy-use showers, 10mm thick acrylic or composite panels generally provide the best balance of durability and water resistance, though 8mm panels are also suitable for most installations.

Can I install shower panels directly onto plasterboard/drywall?

Yes, shower panels can be installed directly onto plasterboard/drywall, provided it's suitable for bathroom use (water-resistant or "green" board). However, for the best long-term performance, we recommend using moisture-resistant (MR) or water-resistant plasterboard specifically designed for wet areas. For extremely wet areas like walk-in showers, consider using a cement backer board or a waterproof board system like Wedi or Hardie backer board for additional protection. Always ensure the wall surface is flat, stable, and properly sealed at joints before panel installation.

How do I cut shower panels around irregular shapes or pipes?

For irregular shapes and pipe work, follow these steps: First, create a template using cardboard or paper by pressing it against the fixture and marking the outline. Transfer this template onto the panel, ensuring you add 2-3mm clearance around the perimeter for expansion. For pipes, measure the centre position and diameter, then mark it on the panel. Use a hole saw of appropriate size (pipe diameter plus 4-6mm) for neat circular cuts. For irregular cuts, drill a starter hole within the waste area, then use a jigsaw with a fine-toothed blade designed for laminate or acrylic. Always cut from the back of the panel when using a jigsaw to minimize chipping on the decorative face.

What maintenance do shower panels require?

Shower panels require minimal maintenance compared to tiles. For routine cleaning, simply wipe down with a soft cloth and mild, non-abrasive bathroom cleaner after showering to prevent limescale build-up. Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or bleach-based products that can damage the panel surface. Periodically check silicone seals (approximately every 6-12 months) and replace if showing signs of wear or mould growth. Use a silicone-specific cleaner for stubborn stains on sealant. For persistent limescale in hard water areas, a specific limescale remover suitable for your panel type can be used occasionally, but always check manufacturer guidelines first.

Can shower panels be installed in a steam shower?

Standard shower panels are generally suitable for normal shower environments, but steam showers present additional challenges due to higher temperatures and intensive moisture exposure. For steam shower installations:

• Select panels specifically rated for steam shower use (check manufacturer specifications)
• Use high-temperature resistant silicone sealant for all joints and edges
• Install panels from floor to ceiling with no gaps
• Pay extra attention to sealing around any fixtures, particularly steam outlets
• Consider using aluminium trims rather than PVC trims which may warp under higher temperatures

If in doubt, consult with the panel manufacturer to confirm their product's suitability for steam shower environments, as warranty coverage may be affected by this type of installation.