Choosing bathroom wall panels can be easier if you first narrow your choices to those within your budget that are waterproof, simple to clean and easy to install. Of course, before choosing the panels, you should plan the wall design of your bathroom. You'll have to decide on full bathroom wall panels or on a wainscoting technique by using them only on the bottom and adding paint or wallpaper to the top section.
Bringing the exact measurements for the wall panels you'll need to the home improvement store is necessary to get the right fit. You may not be able to return any extra bathroom wall panels, so buying extra isn't usually a good idea. Not buying enough panels should also be avoided, especially if there could be a delay in getting more of exactly the same design. A few extra panels to store in a basement or other out of the way place may be beneficial for the future in case a panel or two becomes damaged and needs to be replaced.
Choosing a good quality bathroom panel design can mean long-lasting use. Remember to read the label before purchasing bathroom wall panels, as some types tend to fade or discolor when certain cleaning products are used on them. Maintenance is a key consideration when choosing appropriate panels for a bathroom. Wood panels can give bathrooms a spa like appeal, but they may require oiling or other regular maintenance. PVC, or vinyl, versions are typically low maintenance and available in many different colors and textures.
Weighing the advantages and disadvantages of different panel materials such as vinyl and wood ends up being mainly about personal preference. For example, people who prefer natural wood over synthetics such as vinyl may be willing to invest a little more time maintaining it. Some homeowners don't like wood tones on walls and would rather have an easy maintenance vinyl panel design in a faux stone look that is lighter in color or cooler in appearance than wood.
Snap-together tongue and groove panel systems are often the easiest to use. For the least effort required, you may want to look for bathroom wall panels than can be placed over existing wall coverings. If the walls are ceramic tile or other bulkier surfaces, may have to remove the old material first. If you want a wainscoting effect of a painted or wallpapered top section with panels on the bottom, you may want to leave your upper walls as they are or refresh them with new paint or wallpaper.