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Deciding how to finish your walls isn’t always straightforward, especially when you’re weighing up two strong options like white wall cladding and tiles. Each has its strengths, but they serve different needs. Whether you’re managing a school upgrade or kitting out a clinic, making the right choice now could save time and trouble later. Keep reading to see which one fits your space better.
Understanding the Basics
Tiles have been used in UK homes and commercial buildings for generations. Usually ceramic or porcelain, they’re laid one by one with adhesive and grout, offering a hard-wearing surface that resists water well.
Wall cladding, in contrast, consists of large PVC panels installed across wide areas in fewer steps. These white cladding sheets are popular in hospitals, commercial kitchens, and other places where hygiene is a daily priority.
Hygiene and Maintenance: The Clear Winner
If you’re after something that’s quick to clean and stays that way, wall cladding often takes the lead. The panels are smooth and sealed, so there’s nowhere for grime or bacteria to hide. Compare that to tiles, where grout lines can collect dirt, stain over time, and need regular scrubbing to stay clean.
In places where cleanliness matters like dental clinics, care homes, or school toilets cladding offers a practical edge. You can wipe it down in seconds, with no need for bleach or harsh chemicals.
Installation and Upkeep
Tiles look great but need patience. Laying them takes time, and there’s always the risk of cracked corners or uneven lines if you rush. Plus, once they’re down, you’ve got to wait for everything to set.
Wall cladding speeds things up. The sheets are cut to fit, fixed directly to the wall, and finished off with trims that keep everything neat. You’ll avoid the mess and downtime that come with tiling and can often get a space back up and running the same day.
Durability and Cost Efficiency
Tiles are solid until they’re not. A sharp knock or sudden shift in the wall can lead to cracks, and finding a matching replacement years down the line isn’t always easy.
Cladding is built for busy spaces. It holds up against bumps, scrapes, and constant cleaning. While the upfront cost might be slightly more, the reduced need for repairs and the faster install time often make up the difference.
Style and Finish
Tiles offer a variety of different colours, textures, and patterns. Cladding has traditionally been more pared-back in appearance, especially in medical or kitchen settings. But modern options now include different finishes and tones, giving you a cleaner look without losing visual appeal.
Making the Right Choice
If your space sees daily use and needs to stay spotless, white wall cladding makes a strong case. It’s fast to fit, simple to clean, and designed to last. For projects where style is front and centre, like home bathrooms or statement walls, tiles may still hold their place. But for hygiene-heavy environments, cladding is hard to beat.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Need walls that stand up to wear and still look sharp? White wall cladding might be the answer. It’s quick to install, easy to clean, and keeps up with the demands of busy spaces. Speak to a cladding expert to get the right fit and finish for your next project.
