Wall panels vs. tiles: Which is cheaper?

Many people who renovate their bathrooms are faced with the question: Should we lay tiles or rely on modern wall cladding panels such as RenoDeco? At first glance, tiles often seem cheaper, but if you  take into account long-term costs, installation effort and maintenance, the calculation often looks different.

• Tiles: The material prices for standard tiles are low, but high-quality designs can quickly become more expensive. In addition, there is grout, adhesive, silicon and waterproofing before fitting the tiles – all material that has to be paid for additionally.
• Wall cladding panels: high-quality panels also have higher unit prices, but fewer panels are needed, as they cover more area than small-scale tiles due to their generous format (up to 1.50 x 2.55 m).

In terms of price, both do not take much, as there are cheap versions and high-quality products at a higher price. However, larger differences become visible when it comes to assembly costs.

• Tiles: Laying tiles is time-consuming and error-prone. Especially with large formats or samples, a professional can need several days – craftsmen's costs rise quickly. To avoid further wall construction, the old tile backsplash is usually removed before the new tiles are installed. Removal means additional craftsman costs, a lot of dust and the disposal of the resulting rubble. The coordination of different trades (tilers and plumbers) is error-prone and nerve-wracking (agreements, failure in the event of illness, etc.).
• Wall panels: The panels can be applied to the old tile backsplash, with only a small wall structure, and they are also faster to cut and install. There are no drying times, so that the installation of the shower cubicle, for example, can be continued immediately. The installation can be carried out directly by the sanitary tradesman, so that there is no coordination between different trades.

• Tiles: Grout must be cleaned regularly and reworked if necessary. Mould or discolouration in grout is a common cost factor in renovations.
• Wall panels: Almost seamless and water-repellent – cleaning is easier, mould problems hardly occur. This saves cleaning agents, time and long-term maintenance costs.

• Tiles: High-quality tiles last for decades. However, the many joints between the individual tiles often look unsightly after some time.
• Wall panels: Also durable and impact-resistant. The few silicone joints can be replaced without much effort.

Those who calculate for the long term often save with wall panels:
 In terms of price, the two do not take much, as there are inexpensive versions and high-quality products at a higher price. Wall cladding panels impress with faster installation and thus lower installation costs, less maintenance and uncomplicated cosmetic repairs. For many families who renovate or modernise their bathroom, seamless wall coverings such as RenoDeco are  therefore not only contemporary, but also economically sensible.