VJ wall panels in the bathroom

When it comes to using VJ panelling in wet areas like bathrooms, there are two great options I’ve used recently: James Hardie HardieGroove Panels and James Hardie External Cladding (AXON). Both are durable and water-resistant, and you can find them at Bunnings. These fibre cement panels are sturdy, built to last, and a good alternative to tiles. Though they can be trickier to cut due to their material, they are perfect for water-prone areas and offer a long-lasting solution.

Can You Use VJ Panels in Your Shower?
One of the first questions I often get is whether you can use VJ panels or timber panelling in your actual shower area.

The answer: NO, YOU CAN’T!
Using timber or VJ panels directly in your shower area is not recommended. While some might make it work depending on the distance from the showerhead, it’s generally not a good idea. The ideal place to install VJ panels in the bathroom is anywhere that won’t come into direct, heavy contact with water, such as the shower.

So, where can you use them?
Areas like vanity splashbacks or bath splashbacks are perfectly fine for VJ panels.

While technically you can use these panels in proximity to the shower, I recommend keeping them at least 1.5 – 2 metres away from the direct line of the showerhead for added safety. This ensures they stay protected and won’t suffer from water damage over time.

Importantly, these panels don’t require villaboard behind them—you can install them directly onto your studs. You’ll still need to waterproof and seal the bottom as per usual (like you would when adding a skirting tile to a villaboard), and use tiles or silicone at the base to ensure a clean, water-resistant finish. Skirting tiles or painted skirting boards can be added if your walls are uneven. I’ve used both options.

These panels are a stylish and functional option for any bathroom, as long as they’re placed correctly!

Summary

• James Hardie HardieGroove Panels and James Hardie AXON External Cladding are great alternatives to villaboard for bathroom walls.
• Best used on walls that don’t come into direct contact with heavy water, like splashbacks or surrounding areas.
• Do not use VJ panels in the shower itself—tiles are best for the shower area.
• These panels are water-resistant but not waterproof.
• Panels can be installed directly onto studs without needing villaboard behind.
• Waterproof and seal the bottom edge properly and add skirting tiles for a professional finish.
• Keep panels at least 1.5-2m away from the direct line of the shower head if using them near the shower area.

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