Friday, December 13, 2024

When you are debating between wet wall panels or traditional tiling for your bathroom remodeling project, there are many things to consider. Each option has benefits and drawbacks, from installation ease and maintenance requirements to durability and design flexibility. Whether you prioritize speed of installation and waterproofing capabilities or prefer the timeless appeal and customization of tiled surfaces, taking the time to research every option in your home remodeling project is the best way to make the right decisions. With a clear understanding of the pros and cons, you can choose the option that best aligns with your space’s preferences, budget, and long-term vision.

tiled bathtub shower combo with built in shelves

Ease of Installation

The wet wall has the advantage when comparing tiles to wet wall panels. The installation process for wet wall panels is quick and easy, and your contractor can have the paneling installed and ready in as little as a day. Wet wall panels come ready to install and are as easy as applying adhesive and placing the panel on the wall, which is perfect for those trying to do a bathroom remodeling project quickly. Tile, compared with the ease of installing wet wall panels, is a time-consuming process requiring a high degree of skill and precision. Each tile must be set and grouted individually, with time built in for the grout to cure. This can significantly extend the time needed for your bathroom remodeling project.

What’s Better For Your Bathroom Remodel Budget – Wet Wall or Tile?

When deciding between tile and wet wall panels for your bathroom remodel, it’s important to consider both material and installation costs. While tiles can be budget-friendly, their installation is typically more complex and time-consuming, leading to significantly higher labor costs. On the other hand, wet wall panels often come with a slightly higher upfront material cost but are far quicker and easier to install, making the overall cost lower than tile in most cases.

Durability and Maintenance Needs

You can’t beat the advantage of wet wall panels maintenance. Because the surface is smooth and uninterrupted by grout, there is nowhere for mold and mildew to take hold. Wiping down the panels is typically all that’s needed to clean wet wall panels, and they are incredibly durable with little risk of damage. Cleaning tiles can be more challenging. The grout between the tiles is a prime location for mold and mildew to grow, which can discolor the grout permanently. Regular scrubbing is necessary to keep the grout from becoming challenging, and harsh chemicals may be needed to keep mold and mildew at bay. While some have found that wiping the tile dry after every shower can help, it is still more maintenance-intensive than wet wall options. In addition, the tile itself is durable, but the grout may need to be addressed every few years to ensure it is still holding up.

Waterproofing

Wet wall panels are both waterproof and soundproof. These panels can withstand the high moisture found in bathrooms and will prevent leaks from getting into the walls on which they are mounted. With this level of waterproofing, the water damage potential around the shower area is significantly reduced, which is a significant advantage. Tiles are waterproof, but the grout can allow water to seep into the walls over time and create water damage behind the tile, which can mean a big problem down the road. When wet wall panels are installed, they keep the supporting wall dry and damage-free. Wet wall panels have the additional benefit of being soundproof. Rather than the echo-rich property of tile, wet wall panels create a quiet bathroom atmosphere that many prefer.

Design Preferences

Tiles have a huge advantage in design. Tiles are ideal for the entire bathroom, as they can be installed on the walls and floors, providing a streamlined and cohesive appeal. Different bathroom areas can easily be tied together with complementary tile options for a harmonious aesthetic. Tiles can be designed in many different patterns and come in as many textures, colors, shapes, and sizes as you can envision. Tile design runs the gamut from large slabs to small mosaics, and mixing and matching different tiles and designs can make your bathroom truly unique. No matter what style you are going for, there is a tile design that will work. Wet wall panels have limited design options. There are some options, and the range is expanding, but you will be held to a much more modern and minimalistic design that may not work with your overall concept for the space.

No matter which option you choose, you can rely on your contractor to guide you through all the aspects of your bathroom remodeling project. The best choice will fit your budget, installation timeline, and long-term vision for the newly remodeled room. Wet wall panels are quick, easy to clean, and can provide the sleek minimalist design many homeowners are looking for, but tiles give the room a timeless look that can be customized to fit your exact style. When you are ready for your bathroom remodeling project, trust your contractor to guide you toward the perfect solution for your home. Contact Total Quality Construction today for more information.