Your bath panel might not be something you think about often, but it plays a crucial role in keeping your bathroom looking great and functioning properly. Over time, bath panels can become worn, damaged, or outdated, affecting both the appearance and hygiene of your space. If you’ve noticed any of the signs below, it might be time to replace yours.
1. Visible Cracks, Chips, or Warping
One of the most obvious signs that your bath panel needs replacing is physical damage. Cracks, chips, or warping often occur due to accidental knocks, excessive moisture, or general wear and tear. While small cracks might seem harmless, they can allow water to seep through, leading to bigger issues such as mould growth or structural damage. If your bath panel looks worse for wear, it’s a clear sign that a replacement is due. Click here for more options.
2. Persistent Mould or Water Damage
Bathrooms are naturally humid environments, and if your bath panel isn’t properly sealed or is made from a moisture-sensitive material, water damage can become a problem. Signs to watch out for include swelling, discolouration, or a soft, spongy texture when pressed. In more severe cases, mould may start forming, bringing unpleasant odours and potential health risks. If your bath panel has visible signs of water damage or persistent mould that won’t go away, it’s time to replace it with a more water-resistant option.
3. Loose or Wobbly Bath Panel
A bath panel should sit securely in place, covering the space beneath your bathtub and preventing water from escaping. If yours feels loose, wobbly, or constantly shifts when touched, it could be due to worn-out fittings, poor installation, or long-term exposure to moisture. A loose bath panel isn’t just an aesthetic issue—it can lead to water leaks, dampness, and hidden damage beneath the tub. Replacing it ensures your bathroom stays dry and structurally sound.
4. Outdated or Mismatched Design
Even if your bath panel is still in decent condition, an outdated style can make your entire bathroom look tired and uninspired. If you’ve recently updated your tiles, fixtures, or décor, an old bath panel that doesn’t match the rest of the room can stand out for all the wrong reasons. A simple swap for a sleek, modern design can instantly refresh the space, making your bathroom look more polished and cohesive.
5. Bad Odours or Hidden Issues
A musty or unpleasant smell coming from your bath panel area is a sign that something isn’t right. Moisture can get trapped behind the panel, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mould. Sometimes, unpleasant odours can also indicate hidden plumbing leaks or stagnant water buildup. If your bathroom doesn’t smell as fresh as it should and you can’t pinpoint the cause, checking behind the bath panel and replacing it if necessary can help resolve the issue.
How to Select a Bath Panel
Consider the Bath
First, you need to think about the shape of your bath. For example, some people have a P or an L shape bath, which is going to require a special panel. Then, there are others that have straight baths, which are going to give you more options. You don’t want to find a design you love just to find out it’s not the right shape. So, filter your options from the beginning by choosing the shape of the bath.
Know the Size
Of course, you need to take measurements in order to select the right panel. Make sure that you understand the length you need, as well as the height. It’s going to ensure that you have less work to do if you’re buying the correct size from the beginning.
Choose the Colour
You get to have some fun with your bath panel, which means choosing the style and colour. Indeed, the colour can blend in with your current décor, or you can choose something vibrant. Indeed, popular colours include white, grey, black and blue. But, don’t be afraid to examine other shades and choose something different.
Look at the Material
Don’t forget to consider what the bath panel is made from. Yes, you want it to look good. But, you also have to think about your budget and how much you spend, as well as how durable that material is going to be. For instance, acrylic is known to be cost-effective and durable. But, others like the traditional approach of wood. You should consider your needs and what’s going to be best for your renovations.
Conclusion
Your bath panel might not be the star of your bathroom, but it plays an important role in keeping things looking tidy and functioning smoothly. If you’ve noticed any of these five signs—cracks, mould, looseness, outdated style, or bad odours—it’s worth considering a replacement.
Choosing the right bath panel can improve the overall look of your bathroom while preventing future problems caused by water damage or poor fittings. If you’re ready for a change, now’s the perfect time to give your bath a fresh new look.
