How to Measure Bathroom Wall Panels | Easy Panels

Time to read 3 min

Getting your bathroom measurements right is essential for a smooth installation and a perfect finish. Whether you’re fitting full wall coverage, a shower enclosure, or a half-height splash back, knowing exactly how many panels to order will save time, reduce waste, and prevent costly delays.


This guide will walk you through:


  • How to measure accurately

  • How to avoid common mistakes

  • How to calculate the right number of panels for your project

  • Which panel type is best for your space


before after shower panels

Why Choose Bathroom Wall Panels Over Tiles?


Bathroom wall panels are a stylish, low-maintenance alternative to traditional tiles:


  • 100% waterproof when installed correctly with trims and sealant

  • Quick to fit with minimal preparation

  • Easy to clean with no grout lines to scrub

  • Wide range of finishes to suit any bathroom style

Bathroom Panel Sizes & Best Uses


We offer two main thicknesses and sizes of PVC panels for bathrooms:


10mm Thick Shower Panels


  • Size: 1m width × 2.4m height

  • Best for: High-moisture areas like shower enclosures and wet zones

  • Benefits: Large coverage per panel, fewer joins, more rigid and durable

8mm Thick Bathroom Wall Panels

  • Size: 250mm wide × 2600mm high (supplied in packs of 4 = 1m wide × 2.6m high total coverage)

  • Best for: General bathroom walls, utility rooms, and lower-moisture areas

  • Note: Not recommended for showers or areas with constant water exposure

👉 Choosing your panel size before measuring will make your calculations more accurate.

Tools You’ll Need to Measure


  • 5m+ steel measuring tape (for accuracy)
  • Pencil and notepad (or phone)

  • Spirit level (to check for wall straightness)

  • Stepladder (for high walls)

  • Masking tape (optional, to mark panel coverage)

Bathroom Panel Sizes & Best Uses


We offer two main thicknesses and sizes of PVC panels for bathrooms:


10mm Thick Shower Panels


  • Size: 1m wide × 2.4m high

  • Best for: High-moisture areas such as shower enclosures and wet zones

  • Benefits: Large coverage per panel, fewer joins, more rigid and durable


8mm Thick Bathroom Wall Panels


  • Size: 250mm wide × 2600mm high (supplied in packs of 4 = 1m wide × 2.6m high total coverage)

  • Best for: General bathroom walls, utility rooms, and lower-moisture areas

  • Note: Not recommended for showers or areas with constant water exposure


👉 Choosing your panel type before measuring will make your calculations more accurate.


Step-by-Step: How to Measure Bathroom Walls


1. Measure Each Wall Separately


  • Measure from one corner to the other at floor level, mid-wall, and near the ceiling.

  • Record the smallest measurement to ensure the panels fit without forcing.

  • Repeat for every wall — bathrooms often have slight variations or irregular shapes.


2. Measure Wall Height


  • Measure from the finished floor to the ceiling.

  • If installing above a bath or shower tray, measure from the tray/bath edge to the ceiling.

  • Panels can be trimmed down, but exact measurements help you plan cuts more accurately.


3. Record Obstacles and Fixtures


  • Mark and measure the position of:

    • Windows and alcoves

    • Pipes, taps, shower valves, niches

    • Doors (if panelling above them)

    • Extractor fans, switches, or sockets


Easy Panels’ Top Measuring Tips


  • Measure after removing old tiles/panels — wall dimensions can change

  • Plan joins so they’re in discreet areas, not mid-window or mid-feature

  • Check ceiling height in several spots (especially in older homes)

  • Don’t forget trims and silicone sealant for a watertight finish


How to Calculate How Many Panels You Need


For 10mm Shower Panels (1m wide × 2.4m high):


  1. Add up the total wall width you want to cover.

  2. Divide by 1 metre (the panel width).

  3. Round up to the nearest whole panel.


Example:


  • Wall width = 3.4m

  • 3.4 ÷ 1 = 3.4 → 4 panels needed


For 8mm Wall Panels (250mm wide × 2600mm high, packs of 4):


  1. Add up the total wall width you want to cover.

  2. Divide by 0.25 metres (the width of a single panel).

  3. Round up to the nearest whole panel.


Single Wall Example:


  • Wall width = 2.5m

  • 2.5 ÷ 0.25 = 10 panels needed


Multiple Wall Example:


  • Wall 1 = 2.5m , Wall 2 = 2.5m → total width = 5m

  • 5 ÷ 0.25 = 20 panels needed


✅ Always calculate each wall separately, then add them together for your total. This avoids underestimating if walls vary in width or height.

image of a bathroom with pvc panels

Should You Order Extra?


Yes. Always order 10% more than your calculation. This covers cuts, mistakes, and pattern matching — avoiding costly delays if you run short.


DIY vs Professional Installation


  • DIY-friendly: Bathroom panels are generally easier to fit than tiles, making them ideal for competent DIYers.
  • Professional recommended: For shower enclosures and high-moisture zones, professional fitting ensures perfect waterproofing and longevity.


Mistakes to Avoid and Wall Preparation


👇Be sure to read our DIY guides on Top 7 Mistakes To Avoid When Installing Shower Panels and Steps to Ready Your Wall For Shower Panels.