DIY or Professional Installation? Plus How to Keep Your Wall Panels Looking New
Time to read 3 min
Wall panels are designed to elevate interiors instantly, but how they’re installed — and how they’re cared for afterwards — makes a huge difference to how they look over time. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether to install panels themselves or bring in a professional. Closely followed by another: how do I keep them looking new?
This guide answers both, helping you make the right choice for your space while ensuring your panels stay beautiful for years.
DIY installation: when it works best
DIY installation can be a great option if your project is straightforward and you’re comfortable with basic tools.
It works particularly well when:
Walls are flat and in good condition
Panels are lightweight or designed for adhesive fixing
You’re covering a small or medium-sized area
You’re confident in measuring, cutting, and aligning panels
Many modern wall panels are designed with DIY in mind, making installation quicker than people expect. A careful DIY install can look just as good as a professional one — provided it’s done slowly and accurately.
However, DIY installations do leave less room for error. Uneven spacing, poorly aligned panels, or incorrect fixing methods can affect both appearance and longevity.
Professional installation: when it’s worth it
Professional installation is often the best choice for larger or more complex projects.
It’s worth considering if:
Walls are uneven or require preparation
Panels need cutting around sockets, switches, or features
You’re installing panels floor-to-ceiling or across multiple walls
The space is commercial, such as an office, café, or studio
You want a flawless, high-end finish
Professionals not only install panels more quickly, but they also understand expansion gaps, fixings, and alignment — all of which help panels age better over time.
Choosing the right panel
While installation and maintenance principles overlap, different panel types are designed for very different environments. Choosing the right one from the start makes installation easier and keeps maintenance minimal.
Shower panels: designed for wet environments
Shower panels are fully waterproof and made to handle constant exposure to moisture, steam, and temperature changes.
Best for:
- Bathrooms and shower enclosures
- En-suites and cloakrooms
- Areas with direct water contact
Installation notes:
- Often require professional installation for watertight joins
- Precise cutting and sealing are essential
Maintenance:
- Wipe down regularly to prevent water marks
- Avoid abrasive cleaners
- Proper installation prevents mould and water ingress
Acoustic panels: sound control with style
Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound and reduce echo while also enhancing interior design.
Best for:
- Living rooms
- Home offices
- Studios and media rooms
- Restaurants and commercial spaces
Installation notes:
- Suitable for DIY or professional fitting
- Accurate alignment improves both performance and appearance
Maintenance:
- Regular dusting or vacuuming
- Keep away from excess moisture
- Minimal long-term upkeep when installed correctly
Aquaguard panels: moisture-resistant, everyday durability
Aquaguard panels sit between decorative and waterproof panels. They’re moisture-resistant rather than fully waterproof, making them ideal for general interiors where durability matters.
Best for:
- Kitchens
- Utility rooms
- Hallways
- High-traffic areas
Installation notes:
- DIY-friendly in most cases
- Good wall preparation improves lifespan
Maintenance:
- Easy wipe-clean surface
- More resistant to marks than paint
- Excellent for busy households
Why this matters for DIY vs professional installation
Understanding panel differences helps you decide whether DIY installation is realistic or if professional fitting is the safer option.
As a rule:
- Shower panels benefit most from professional installation
- Acoustic panels are the most DIY-friendly
- Aquaguard panels offer flexibility for both
Choosing the right panel type from the start reduces installation issues and keeps maintenance simple long-term.
How installation affects long-term maintenance
This is where the two topics truly connect.
Panels that are installed correctly are easier to maintain and stay looking new for longer. Poor installation can lead to:
- Gaps appearing over time
- Panels shifting or loosening
- Dust collecting unevenly
- Edges lifting or warping
Whether you choose DIY or professional installation, accuracy at the start directly impacts how much maintenance is needed later.
Keeping your wall panels looking new
Once installed, maintenance is refreshingly simple.
Regular care:
- Dust panels weekly using a soft cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment
- Clean gently with a slightly damp cloth if needed
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges
Long-term care:
- Keep panels away from excessive moisture unless they’re designed for humid areas like our shower and AquaGuard panels
- Maintain good ventilation in the room
- Avoid leaning furniture directly against panel edges
A well-installed panel that’s lightly maintained will look almost identical years later — especially compared to painted walls, which mark and fade far more easily.
So, which option is best?
There’s no single right answer.
DIY installation is ideal if you enjoy hands-on projects and want to save on fitting costs. Professional installation is best if you want guaranteed results, minimal risk, and a premium finish.
Whichever route you choose, careful installation and gentle maintenance go hand in hand. Get those two things right, and your panels will continue to enhance your space long after installation day.
