Is Paneling Cheaper Than Tiling? A Mornington Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom & Wall Renovations

Renovating a bathroom, laundry, or feature wall in your Mornington home comes with big decisions—and one of the most budget-impacting is the choice between paneling and tiling. So, is paneling cheaper than tiling? The short answer: yes, in many cases, paneling is significantly more affordable than traditional ceramic or porcelain tiling, especially when factoring in installation costs, material pricing, and ongoing maintenance.

But cost is only part of the equation. In Mornington, where coastal humidity, evolving design preferences, and renovation costs can influence decision-making, homeowners must look at total value, functionality, and aesthetic outcomes. With Leona Rodriguesi of Mornington Cabinet Makers, let’s explore the real costs, pros and cons, and key considerations for both tile and panel systems, helping you make an informed choice for your Mornington Peninsula property.

Understanding the Cost of Paneling vs Tiling

When comparing prices between wall paneling and tiling, a few major cost drivers come into play:

🔸 Material Costs

Wall panels, especially PVC, MDF, and composite shower panels, typically cost $50–$150 per square metre, depending on quality and brand. Popular choices in Mornington include laminated wet wall panels, acrylic splashbacks, and even waterproof timber-look cladding for accent walls.

In contrast, tiles—especially porcelain, ceramic, and stone tiles—range from $30 to $300+ per square metre, depending on design, glaze, and durability. Designer or mosaic tiles, which are popular in Mornington’s upscale homes, can drive costs up dramatically.

🔸 Installation Costs

Here’s where paneling really shines. Paneling systems are designed for quick, low-labour installation—often using tongue-and-groove locking or adhesive application, reducing labour time. On average, installing panels can cost $40–$60 per square metre.

Tiling, by contrast, involves substrate prep, adhesive, tile setting, grouting, and sealing. The average cost for professional tile installation in Mornington sits around $90–$120 per square metre, not including waterproofing.

🔸 Maintenance & Longevity

Wall panels are easy to clean, grout-free, and resistant to mould—a huge plus for Mornington’s moist, ocean-influenced climate. Tiling, while durable, requires ongoing grout maintenance, sealing, and occasional repairs, especially in high-traffic bathrooms or kitchens.

Verdict: On material and labour costs alone, paneling is 20–50% cheaper than tiling for most standard home applications in the Mornington area.

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Design and Aesthetic Considerations

🔸 Style Versatility

Modern paneling has come a long way from the 1970s faux wood finishes. Today’s panels mimic natural stone, subway tile, concrete, and even scandi timber slats—styles that align with Mornington’s popular coastal-modern aesthetic. For DIYers or quick renovations, panels offer instant impact without weeks of tiling disruption.

Tiling, however, remains the gold standard for high-end finishes. Handmade tiles, natural stone, and glossy ceramics provide tactile luxury and depth that panels can’t fully replicate.

🔸 Customization

Tiles offer greater design flexibility for mosaics, patterns, and feature walls, especially when working with a designer or interior stylist. In Mornington’s competitive real estate market, bespoke tiling can enhance resale value—particularly in luxury coastal homes.

Panels are typically pre-finished and modular, limiting customization but providing speed and uniformity. They’re ideal for rental properties, holiday homes, or budget-conscious renovations.

Moisture Resistance and Durability in Mornington’s Climate

One of the biggest concerns for Mornington homeowners is how materials hold up against the Peninsula’s damp coastal air and seasonal humidity.

PVC panels and laminated wall panels are highly water-resistant and often mould and mildew-resistant, making them perfect for bathroom renovations or laundry walls. Many local builders and renovators now recommend wet wall panels in lieu of traditional tiles in rental properties or second bathrooms.

Tiles, particularly those with porous grout, require ongoing maintenance. Without proper sealing and cleaning, they can develop mould—especially in unventilated areas like older bathrooms in Mount Martha or Mornington Central.

Environmental Impact: Which Is Greener?

While panels may be cheaper, their environmental footprint can vary.

• PVC panels are often made from plastic and may not be recyclable.
• MDF-based panels, common in budget builds around Somerville or Baxter, contain adhesives that can emit VOCs.

Tiling, while energy-intensive to produce, often lasts decades without needing replacement, especially if sealed and maintained properly. Natural stone or recycled ceramic options offer better environmental profiles, though at a premium cost.

If you’re building a sustainable home in Mornington, talk to your builder about low-VOC panel options or eco-certified tiles from local suppliers like Southern Tile Mornington or Peninsula Tile Gallery.

Local Costs & Supplier Considerations in Mornington

As of 2025, a standard bathroom renovation in Mornington can cost anywhere between $12,000 and $25,000, depending on materials and labour.

Paneling-based bathrooms (using waterproof shower panels and pre-fab splashbacks) average around $10,000–$14,000, while tiled bathrooms often exceed $18,000–$22,000, especially when using designer tiles from Mornington’s boutique suppliers.

For DIYers, Bunnings Mornington, Tradelink, and Beaumont Tiles all offer panel and tile solutions, often with in-house style consultation and delivery throughout the Mornington Peninsula.

When to Choose Paneling Over Tiling

Choose paneling if:

• You want to renovate on a tight budget or short timeline
• You’re updating a rental property or holiday home
• You need low-maintenance, mould-resistant finishes
• You’re covering over existing tiles or old wall surfaces

Choose tiling if:

• You’re renovating a luxury property or main bathroom
• You want custom design and premium finishes
• You’re investing in long-term durability
• You have a larger renovation budget and longer timeline

Final Verdict: Is Paneling Cheaper Than Tiling in Mornington?

Yes—paneling is generally cheaper than tiling, especially for small-to-medium renovations across Mornington homes. Factoring in both material and installation, you could save thousands by choosing wall panels over tiles—without sacrificing too much on style or durability.

That said, the value of tiling in terms of visual impact, resale value, and longevity still holds strong—particularly in high-end Mornington homes, coastal villas, or custom builds.

Whether you’re refreshing a laundry in Mount Eliza, remodeling an ensuite in Mornington Central, or planning a full reno in Mount Martha, your choice will ultimately come down to budget, lifestyle, and design priorities.

Pro Tip for Mornington Renovators:

Mix and match! Use tiles for focal areas like shower recesses and vanity splashbacks, and complement them with affordable wall paneling elsewhere. This hybrid approach balances cost and style—an increasingly popular renovation strategy across the Mornington Peninsula.