If you’re renovating a bathroom, wet room or shower enclosure and dread grouting, slow tiling and ongoing maintenance, there’s a smarter way — and it’s now here at Tile&BathCo. Fibo wall panels are a 100% waterproof, tile-alternative wall system that’s transforming UK bathrooms with speed, style and durability.
In this guide you’ll learn what makes Fibo different, how they compare with traditional tiles, and why they’re becoming a top choice for homeowners and installers alike.
What Are Fibo Wall Panels?
At their core, Fibo wall panels are full-height waterproof wall systems made from a multi-layer plywood core with high-pressure laminate surface that forms a strong, waterproof finish for bathroom walls and wet areas.
Unlike tiles — which require grouting, drying times and careful waterproofing — Fibo’s system uses the Aqualock tongue-and-groove joint that clicks panels together for a snug, nearly seamless finish.
This isn’t just another plastic board — it’s an engineered solution designed to be:
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Completely waterproof when sealed correctly
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Quick and easy to install
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Long-lasting with minimal maintenance
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Free from grout lines where mould forms
These panels are suitable for bathrooms, wet rooms, shower enclosures and even kitchen splashbacks where moisture exposure is high but cleaning ease matters.
How Fibo Panels Compare to Traditional Tiles
If you’re familiar with tiled bathrooms, you’ll know the frustrations:
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Grout lines that discolour
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Long installation times
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Waterproofing complexities
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Harder ongoing cleaning
Fibo wall panels tackle these directly:
1. Speed of Installation
Fibo panels can be up to five times quicker to install than tiles because you’re handling large panels rather than individual tiles and grout.
2. Waterproof Performance
Panels are fully waterproof once correctly sealed with approved sealant and profiles, without worrying about grout joints trapping moisture — a common grout vulnerability.
3. Easier Cleaning & Maintenance
A smooth laminate surface wipes down far more easily than tiled surfaces. No grout means no black mould lines, and keeping your bathroom fresh becomes far less labour intensive.
4. Long-Term Durability
Industry testing and warranty coverage — often up to 25 years — means Fibo systems deliver peace of mind in wet environments when installed as per manufacturer guidelines.
Real UK Homeowner Insights & Practical Tips
I’ve specified and installed wall finishes in dozens of UK bathrooms over the years. One recurring real issue I see with traditional tiles is hidden water damage behind grout lines. Once that grout starts to fail, repairs can be costly and disruptive.
With Fibo panels, you still need solid substrate preparation and a waterproof seal at joints, but once in place the system doesn’t rely on grout to keep water out — which, for homeowners, translates into fewer future problems and reduced maintenance stress.
👉 Installation essentials:
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Panels should be fixed vertically for warranty coverage.
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Use recommended Fibo Seal or similar ETAG-approved hybrid polymer sealant at all cut edges and joints.
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Panels can be mechanically fixed or glued over existing sound tiles — but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Design Options to Suit Every Style
Fibo’s range of designs means you’re not limited to plain walls. At Tile&BathCo we’re now stocking a curated selection of the most popular and versatile options, perfect for UK bathrooms, wet rooms and showers:
Highlights & When to Choose Them
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Fibo Signature Bright Marble Wall Panel – Classic marble look for sophisticated spaces.
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Fibo Timeless Crystal White High Gloss Plain Panel – Clean, minimalist and perfect for modern bathrooms.
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Fibo Scandinavian Small Tile Wall Panel – Tile effect without grout lines, great for contemporary styling.
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Fibo Aberdeen Extra Matt Aqualock Wall Panel – Extra matt finish for understated elegance.
These panels cover a range of neutral tones, natural stone effects, wood-inspired decors and clean plain finishes, making it easy to match your bathroom fixtures and fittings.
Practical Considerations Before You Buy
Before you commit to any wall panel solution, including Fibo, think about the following:
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Wall Preparation: Panels need a stable, flat surface — whether fixed to stud, battens or over existing backed tiles.
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Cutting & Edges: Panels are best cut with fine saw blades to avoid edge damage. Always seal cut edges.
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Fixtures: For wall-hung toilets or vanity units, ensure fixings are through battens or studs behind the panel — not just through the panel itself. This isn’t unique to Fibo but is critical to good performance.
Why Fibo Makes Sense for UK Homes
Fibo wall panels are not just an alternative to tiles — they’re a better solution for many homeowners. They deliver:
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Faster installation with less fuss
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Durable waterproof performance backed by warranty
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Easier cleaning and low maintenance
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Stylish finishes that rival traditional tiles
If you want a modern, practical bathroom finish that stands the test of daily use — especially in wet, busy homes — Fibo panels are well worth considering. At Tile&BathCo we’re excited to offer this system because it aligns with how real people live in UK homes — busy, practical and wanting results that last.
