What Are Kitchen Wall Panels?

Kitchen wall panels are a type of wall cladding used to cover the plastered walls of your kitchen, an alternative to tiling and paint. Kitchen panelling is usually made from composites like PVC or MDF, depending on the installation area.

PVC wall panels are most suited for the splashback area and areas prone to splashes and moisture, such as near the skin and cooking areas.

Other types of panelling such as slat wall panels, are ideal for other kitchen walls which may not come in contact with water.

Different Types Of Wall Panelling

• Wood Panels: Classic and warm, but susceptible to moisture damage.
• Laminate Panels: Affordable and low-maintenance, but can appear artificial and susceptible to moisture damage.
• Tiles: Traditional, high quality and authentic finishes, available in a wide range of styles, but costly, labour intensive to install and maintain.
• PVC Panels: Moisture-resistant, hygienic, budget-friendly and easy to install, making them an ideal choice for kitchens.

Why Choose PVC Panelling For The Kitchen

PVC panels are the on-trend smart choice for kitchen installations due to their unique properties that make them well-suited for the demanding environment of kitchens.

1. Moisture Resistant and Waterproof Material: Kitchens are prone to splashes, spills, and humidity, which can wreak havoc on traditional wall coverings. PVC panels are impervious to water, preventing moisture damage and ensuring long-lasting performance.
2. Hygienic and Easy to Clean Surface: With their smooth, non-porous surfaces, PVC panels are resistant to bacteria and mould growth, making them a hygienic choice for food preparation areas. They can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth, ensuring a fresh and spotless environment.
3. Durability and Long Lasting Performance: Unlike tiles or wood, PVC panels are highly resistant to scratches, dents, and impact damage. They can withstand the wear and tear of a busy kitchen, maintaining their attractive appearance for years to come.
4. Lightweight and Easier Installation: Compared to traditional tiles, PVC panels are significantly lighter and easier to handle during installation. They are also easier to cut to shape. This not only simplifies the process but also reduces the strain on walls and minimises the need for extensive surface preparation.

Sealing and Waterproofing Kitchen Splashback Panels

When installing PVC panels as splashbacks in the kitchen, proper sealing and waterproofing are crucial to ensure long-lasting protection against moisture and water damage. Here are some essential tips for sealing and waterproofing PVC splashback panels:

1. Surface Preparation:
   • Clean the wall surface thoroughly, removing any dirt, grease, or loose debris.
   • Ensure the surface is dry and free from any moisture before proceeding.
2. Adhesive Application:
   • Use a high-quality, solvent-based adhesive specifically designed for PVC panels.
   • Apply the adhesive to the back of the panels and the wall surface following the instructions in our full PVC panel installation guide.
3. Panel Installation:
   • Carefully press the PVC panels into place, ensuring a tight fit and proper alignment.
   • Use a clean cloth to firmly press the panels against the wall, eliminating any air pockets.
4. Sealing Edges and Joints:
   • Use a flexible, waterproof sealant compatible with PVC panels to seal all edges and joints.
   • Pay special attention to the edges where the splashback meets the countertop, backsplash, or other surfaces.
   • Smooth the sealant with a putty knife or your finger for a seamless finish.
5. Waterproofing Corners and Transitions:
   • Use pre-formed PVC corner trims or custom-cut pieces to create a watertight seal in corners and transitions.
   • Apply a generous amount of sealant to the trim pieces before installing them.
6. Curing and Inspection:
   • Allow the sealant and adhesive to cure fully, usually 24-48 hours.
   • Inspect the entire splashback area for any gaps, cracks, or imperfections, and apply additional sealant as needed.
7. Maintenance and Care:
   • Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could damage the panel surface or degrade the sealant over time.

Kitchen Wall Panelling Ideas

Concrete Kitchen Wall Panels

Concrete effect wall panels offer an industrial and modern aesthetic. Perfect for providing a sleek, minimalist look to a kitchen space.

Wooden Kitchen Wall Panelling

Wood panelling or wooden slats used for kitchen walls adds warmth, texture, and a rustic or natural vibe to a kitchens overall aesthetic.

White Rugged Brick Kitchen Wall Panelling

These panels mimic the appearance of white, distressed or rustic bricks. This style creates a rugged, farmhouse-inspired look for kitchen walls.

White Marble Kitchen Wall Paneling

PVC panels designed resemble white marble are on-trend. An easy way to add a luxurious and elegant touch to a kitchen space.

White Brick Tile Kitchen Panels

These white brick tiles offer a subway tile aesthetic. Brick tiles provide a classic and timeless look to kitchen walls.

Gloss Grey Kitchen Wall Panels

These simple panels provide a glossy grey look, giving the kitchen a sleek and modern appearance.

Matte Black Kitchen Wall Panels

Matte black panels are great with downlighting, offering a bold and contemporary look with a non-reflective finish.

Marble Kitchen Panels

Marble wall panelling is amongst the most popular, they instantly offer a luxurious look to kitchen walls.

Herringbone White Brick Kitchen Panels

These panels feature white bricks arranged in a herringbone pattern, creating a classic and visually appealing design for kitchen walls.

Grey Gloss Kitchen Wall Panels

Kitchen wall panels with a glossy grey finish, adding a modern and sophisticated touch to the space.

White Tile Wall Panels

Similar to the subway style brick panels, these white tile panels offer a clean and consistent finish on kitchen walls.

Gloss White Kitchen Wall Panels

High-gloss white wall panels for kitchens, offering a clean, bright, and contemporary look to the space.

Geometric Tile Kitchen Wall Panelling

These panels feature geometric tile patterns, creating a visually interesting and modern design for kitchen walls.