When choosing a shower panel for your bathroom, the material matters as much as the design. The right bathroom wall panels should offer durability, water resistance, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal. In this article, we review popular materials used for shower panels, weigh their pros and cons, and highlight how Salus India incorporates these materials into their product range.
Why Material Choice Matters
A shower panel for bathroom sees constant exposure to water, humidity, changes in temperature, and cleaning agents. If the material isn’t up to the job, you may face rust, warping, discolouration, or leaks. Also, the material influences weight, cost, and ease of installation. So before picking a model like Salus’s Galaxy, Alba, or Florina panels, know what material underlies the design.
Common Materials Used in Shower Panels
1. 304 Stainless Steel
One of the top options. Salus India mentions that their Galaxy shower panels are constructed from 304 stainless steel.
Pros:
- Excellent corrosion resistance (especially vital in steamy, wet environments).
- Strong and rigid — less likely to bend or warp.
- Hygienic and easy to clean smooth surface resists dirt and stains.
Cons:
- It can be more expensive.
- If the finish (coating or polish) is poor, it might show water spots or fingerprints.
2. Aluminum / Anodised Aluminum
Used in lighter-weight panels or parts (trim, edging, casing) rather than full bodies.
Pros:
- Lightweight, easier to mount.
- If anodised or coated properly, it resists corrosion decently.
- Lower cost than premium stainless steel.
Cons:
- Less strong than SS; may dent more easily.
- Coatings or finishes may wear over time in harsh cleaning routines.
3. Tempered Glass / Glass Front Panels
Some premium designs use tempered glass over a backing material for aesthetics.
Pros:
- Sleek, modern look; glass gives a premium feel.
- Easy to clean (glass cleaner works well).
- Can combine with other materials (steel or composite backing).
Cons:
- Risks of cracking or chipping if struck.
- Heavier and more delicate to handle.
- Requires proper sealing to prevent leaks behind the glass.
4. High-Quality Plastic / ABS / Acrylic Composites
Some more affordable shower panels for bathroom use are made of high-grade plastics or composites.
Pros:
- Cost-effective.
- Lightweight and easier to install.
- Some newer polymers resist yellowing and UV damage.
Cons:
- More prone to scratching, fading, or discolouration over time.
- It may not feel as premium or sturdy as metal or glass versions.
- Less resistant to heat and chemicals.
What Salus India Offers & How That Reflects Material Choices
On the Salus India Shower Panels product category page, you’ll find models like ALBA, FLORINA, Galaxy, LAKE, SPARK, and Solo listed. Salus also describes how their Galaxy line uses 304 stainless steel, combining both cascade and rain shower options.
This suggests Salus is leaning toward durable, corrosion-resistant materials suited for long-term performance in a bathroom environment. When you browse their site, you’ll find product pages with “Read more” or “Quick view” links for each model, which presumably give details about finish, features, and materials.
By choosing a model from Salus (or any brand), look closely at the specification sheet, often hidden in “read more” detail, to see whether they use 304 stainless steel, tempered glass, or composites.
Final Thoughts & Recommendation
When selecting a shower panel, prioritise 304 stainless steel or tempered glass over lower-grade plastics or composites. These high-quality materials provide better longevity, resistance to corrosion, and a refined appearance.
