Reviewed by Bathroom Republic's Team
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Quick answer: Measure the bath itself, not just the old panel — the length (or width for an end panel) along the top edge, and the height from underneath the bath rim down to the finished floor, checked in a few spots. Match your bath's shape (straight, L-shaped, P-shaped) to the correct panel type before ordering.
How to Measure for a Replacement Bath Panel: A Simple UK Guide
A new bath panel can make an old bath look clean and tidy again. It hides the bath legs, pipes and space below the bath.
Getting the right size is important. A panel that is too short may leave a gap. A panel that is too tall may not fit below the bath rim. The shape must also match your bath.
This simple guide shows you what to measure. It also explains the difference between front panels, end panels and shaped bath panels.
What Is a Bath Panel?
A bath panel covers the open space below the bath. It gives the outside of the bath a finished look.
Most fitted baths need one or two panels:
- Front panel: Covers the long side of the bath.
- End panel: Covers the short end of the bath.
A bath fitted between three walls may only need a front panel. A bath fitted in a corner may need both a front panel and an end panel.
You can compare the main styles in Bathroom Republic's bath panel collection.
What You Need Before Measuring
You only need a few simple items:
- A tape measure
- A pencil or pen
- A piece of paper or your phone
- A spirit level if you have one
- A second person if the old panel is large or hard to move
Write every measurement in millimetres. For example, write 1700mm instead of 170cm. Bath panels are normally listed in millimetres on product pages.
Measure twice. This simple step can stop you from ordering the wrong panel.
First, Check the Shape of Your Bath
Do not measure the size until you know the bath shape.
Straight Bath
A straight bath has a long, straight front edge. It may be single-ended or double-ended. Many straight baths use a flat front panel.
L-Shaped Bath
An L-shaped shower bath has a wider, square showering area at one end. It needs a panel made for the same shape and size. It may also be left-handed or right-handed.
P-Shaped Bath
A P-shaped bath has a rounded, wider area at one end. Its front panel is curved. A flat panel will not follow this shape.
Corner or Special-Shaped Bath
A corner bath or unusual bath may need a panel made for that exact model. Check the bath name or product details if you still have them.
Bathroom Republic's wider bath collection can help you compare common bath shapes. For a shaped shower bath, look for a panel that clearly states it is compatible with that bath or range.
How to Measure a Front Bath Panel
The front panel covers the long side of the bath. You need two main measurements: length and height.
Step 1: Measure the Length
Place the tape measure along the top front edge of the bath. Measure from the outside edge at one end to the outside edge at the other end.
Keep the tape straight. Do not follow a curved line unless you have a shaped bath and the product instructions tell you to do so.
Common bath names may include sizes such as 1500mm, 1600mm, 1700mm or 1800mm. However, do not guess your size from what looks common. Measure the actual bath.
Step 2: Measure the Height
Measure from the underside of the bath rim down to the finished floor. Do not start from the top surface of the rim.
Take this measurement in at least three places:
- Near the left end
- In the middle
- Near the right end
The floor may not be perfectly level. The bath may also have been fitted slightly higher at one end. Keep all three measurements and check which heights the chosen panel can cover.
Step 3: Check for a Plinth
A plinth is a narrow strip fitted along the bottom of some bath panels. It can help adjust the total height and cover a small gap near the floor.
Do not assume every panel includes one. Read the product description. Check the panel height, the plinth height and the full adjustable height where this is shown.
Browse Bathroom Republic's front bath panels after you have written down the length and height.
How to Measure an End Bath Panel
An end panel covers the short side of the bath. You need one if the end of the bath faces into the room.
Step 1: Measure the Width
Measure across the short top edge of the bath. Measure from the wall-side edge to the outside front edge.
Common straight baths are often described using widths such as 700mm, 750mm or 800mm. Your measurement and the product details must agree.
Step 2: Measure the Height
Measure from the underside of the bath rim to the finished floor. Take the measurement at the front and back of the exposed end.
If the measurements are different, the floor may be uneven. A panel with a suitable plinth may make fitting easier, but you must check the product's adjustment range.
Step 3: Check How the Panels Meet
If you need both panels, check how the front panel and end panel join at the corner. Panels from the same range are usually easier to match.
Colour can also vary. One white finish may look warmer or brighter than another. Where possible, choose a matching front and end set.
You can browse Bathroom Republic's bath end panels or compare matching front and end panel sets.
Should You Measure the Old Panel?
You can measure the old panel, but do not use this as your only guide.
The old panel may have been cut. It may be bent, damaged or fitted badly. It may also be the wrong size.
Use the old panel as a helpful check. Measure:
- Its full length
- Its full height
- Its thickness
- Any cut-outs or shaped areas
- The position of clips or brackets
Then measure the bath itself. The bath measurements are the more important set.
Check the Space Behind the Panel
Carefully look behind the old panel before ordering a replacement. Turn off any nearby electrical equipment first. Do not pull the panel hard if pipes or fittings may be attached to it.
Check for:
- Bath legs and support bars
- The waste pipe
- Water pipes
- Old clips or a fixing frame
- Floor pipes that may block a plinth
- Signs of leaking or damp
A small leak should be fixed before the new panel is installed. The panel should also remain removable so the plumbing can be reached later.
If the waste needs replacing, look through Bathroom Republic's wastes and plumbing parts. Ask a plumber to check compatibility if you are unsure.
Choose the Right Panel Material
Bath panels come in different materials. The product page should explain the material and care needs.
Acrylic or ABS Panels
These panels are usually light and easy to handle. They often have a smooth white finish. Some are shaped for a particular bath.
PVC Panels
PVC panels are made from plastic. Some include a plinth or storage access. Check the stated size and fitting method.
MDF or Wood-Effect Panels
These panels can give the bath a furniture-style look. Follow the care instructions. Wipe away water and protect any cut edges as directed.
Do not assume every panel can be cut. Some panels can be trimmed, while others may crack or lose their finished edge. Always read the product details before cutting.
Would a Storage Bath Panel Help?
Some bath panels include sliding or removable doors. These can provide access to the space below the bath.
Before choosing one, check:
- There is enough clear space behind the door
- The bath frame and pipes will not block it
- The door can open without hitting the toilet or furniture
- Stored items will not make plumbing hard to reach
Bathroom Republic's storage bath panels include options for bathrooms where tidy access below the bath would be useful.
Common Measuring Mistakes
- Measuring only the old panel: Measure the bath as well.
- Measuring from the top of the rim: Measure height from below the bath rim.
- Taking one height measurement: Check several points in case the floor is uneven.
- Forgetting the end panel: Check whether the short side is visible.
- Ignoring the bath shape: Flat panels will not fit every shaped bath.
- Guessing the handed side: L-shaped and P-shaped baths may be left- or right-handed.
- Assuming the panel can be cut: Read the product instructions first.
- Forgetting plumbing access: The new panel should not seal away important fittings.
Think About the Rest of the Bath Area
A replacement panel is a good time to check the rest of the bath.
If the bath is used for showering, inspect the screen and bottom seal. A worn seal may allow water to run onto the panel or floor. Bathroom Republic offers a range of bath screens for different layouts and finishes.
You can also compare bath taps and bath shower mixers if the wider bath area is being updated. Check tap holes, water pressure and access below the bath before choosing new fittings.
Summary: Measure the Bath, Not Just the Panel
Start by checking the shape of the bath. Then measure the length or width and the height from below the bath rim to the finished floor.
Take more than one height measurement. Check whether you need a front panel, an end panel or both. Finally, compare your measurements with the full product details before ordering.
Replacement Bath Panel Checklist
- Bath shape: Straight, L-shaped, P-shaped or another shape
- Panel type: Front panel, end panel or both
- Front length: Outside edge to outside edge
- End width: Wall-side edge to front outside edge
- Height: Underside of bath rim to finished floor
- Floor level: Measure the height in several places
- Plinth: Check whether one is included and adjustable
- Bath shape and side: Confirm left- or right-handed where needed
- Material: Check care and cutting instructions
- Access: Keep pipes and the bath waste reachable
- Colour: Match the front and end panels where possible
- Final check: Compare every measurement with the product page
Found your measurements? Find your panel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Replacement Bath Panels
Do I measure the bath or the old bath panel?
Measure the bath first. You can measure the old panel as a second check, but it may have been cut or fitted badly.
Where do I measure the height of a bath panel?
Measure from the underside of the bath rim down to the finished floor. Check the height in several places because the floor may not be level.
What size panel do I need for a 1700mm bath?
A bath described as 1700mm will often use a front panel made for that length. You must still check the actual bath size, required panel height, shape and product compatibility before ordering.
Do I need a bath end panel?
You need an end panel when the short end of the bath is open and visible. You may not need one when the bath is fitted tightly between three walls.
Can I cut a replacement bath panel to size?
Some panels may be trimmed, but others should not be cut. Cutting can damage the surface or finished edge. Read the instructions for the exact panel before making any changes.
What is a bath panel plinth?
A plinth is a narrow lower strip used with some bath panels. It can help cover a small gap and adjust the panel's total height.
Will a straight panel fit an L-shaped or P-shaped bath?
Usually not. Shaped baths need panels made to follow their shape. You may also need to choose the correct left- or right-handed version.
Should a bath panel be removable?
Important plumbing below the bath should remain reachable. The fitting method should allow suitable access for checks and repairs.
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Author: Bathroom Republic's Team