Product Guide
What Are IPS Panels? Benefits, Materials and Uses Explained
At a glance
| IPS stands for Integrated Plumbing System – panels that conceal pipework and cisterns. |
| They help create a cleaner finish and easier maintenance access. |
| HPL and SGL are both common IPS panel materials. |
| The right material depends on traffic, moisture and abuse risk. |
What does IPS mean?
IPS means Integrated Plumbing System. In practical terms, it is a ducting or panelling system that conceals pipework, cisterns and services while keeping them accessible for maintenance.
That makes IPS panels useful wherever a project needs a cleaner visual finish, better hygiene and coordinated panelling that matches commercial toilet cubicles or vanity areas.
Why IPS panels are used in commercial washrooms
Supplier guidance consistently emphasises four benefits: a neater appearance, easier cleaning, better concealment of services and practical maintenance access. Thrislington also positions its ducting systems as elegant but tough enough to withstand serious abuse, which speaks to both aesthetics and durability in public washrooms.
Cleaner look
Conceals cisterns and services behind a finished face.
Easier cleaning
Reduces exposed pipework and awkward surfaces.
Maintenance access
Allows access panels and service points to be built in.
System matching
Can be coordinated with cubicles, vanity units and wall panelling.
HPL vs SGL IPS panels
Dunhams' current IPS panel page lists both HPL and SGL options, noting that SGL is also suitable for showers. Its downloadable Duct+ specification identifies HPL as an 18mm panel and SGL as a 13mm solid grade laminate option with polished radiused edges.
| Material | Typical use | Why choose it |
|---|---|---|
| HPL IPS panels | Dry or moderate-use commercial washrooms | Balanced durability, finish quality and cost |
| SGL IPS panels | Wet, high-traffic or heavy-abuse environments | Better moisture resistance and stronger durability profile |
Where IPS panels work best
IPS panels are common in office washrooms, school IPS panels in educational facilities, healthcare projects, leisure environments, public buildings and retail schemes.
They are especially useful wherever a project needs a consistent, coordinated finish across cubicles, vanity units and wall panelling in the same washroom.
Specifier checklist before choosing an IPS system
- Does the environment stay dry, or does it include showers or frequent washdowns?
- How often will access be needed for maintenance?
- Should the panels visually match cubicles or vanity units?
- Is pre-framed IPS panel frames or site-framed construction the better fit for installation?
- What level of impact resistance is needed in the finished washroom?
Practical tip: match the panel material to the same logic used for cubicles – HPL for dry, moderate-use areas, SGL for wet or high-traffic environments where maintenance access still needs to be quick and easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does IPS stand for?
IPS stands for Integrated Plumbing System.
Can you still access the pipework behind IPS panels?
Yes. IPS systems are designed to conceal services while still providing maintenance access through removable or integrated access panels.
Which is better for IPS panels: HPL or SGL?
HPL is often suitable for dry and moderate-use settings, while SGL is better for wetter or tougher environments.
Are IPS panels worth adding to a commercial washroom?
They usually are, because they improve appearance, hygiene and service concealment while supporting a more coordinated fit-out.
Related Guides
Need help with a live washroom project?
Send your washroom layout and service positions for advice on IPS panel material, framing and coordination with cubicles or vanity units.