What do I need to know before installing a Wet Room?
If you are considering changing one of your bathrooms into a wet room, you are not alone. Wet rooms have soared in popularity in recent years, meaning that the range of products available for this type of project has also widened. In this article we take a look at exactly what a wet room is, and some considerations to be aware of before taking the plunge and starting your renovation.
What is a Wet Room?
A wet room is a completely waterproof or tanked bathroom. A gradient is created in the floor which directs the water into a drain, removing the need for a shower enclosure or tray. True wet rooms do not usually feature any screens, however, often customers do prefer to add them in order to protect other fittings and features from water. Wet rooms are ideal for people with balance or mobility difficulties as the shower area is on the same level as the rest of the room, making it more accessible.
Advantages
First and foremost, wet rooms give your home an incredibly sleek and modern look. They have a certain wow factor that draws the eye. Having a wet room as a second bathroom may also add value to your home, as it is a feature that house hunters now look for in a property.
Typically, in a wet room the bath and shower enclosure are removed, giving your room a spacious appearance. The open plan nature and clean lines also help to create the illusion of more space. Wet rooms are easier to clean than a traditional bathroom as there are less fittings and fixtures: simply wipe down and you’re good to go! In fact, if you also opt for wall mounted furniture like this Hampton vanity unit, then there will be very little on the floor and cleaning will be a breeze.
Photo: @newbuildhomeproject on Instagram
Disadvantages
As with any renovation project, there are some drawbacks associated with installing a wet room. They can be more susceptible to issues with damp, leaks and mould so it is incredibly important to make sure that you have hired a reputable builder who is able to waterproof the room properly. As mentioned before, creating a wet room can also be quite a large, costly project. You also need to make sure that you choose anti-slip tiles for your wet room, which reduces your options slightly.Finally, be aware that if you go for a completely open design, soggy toilet roll and damp towels could be a problem due to splashes and spray from the shower.
Another Option
If you would like to create the open plan feel of a wet room without committing to quite as big a project, you could opt for an equally stylish walk-in shower. These differ from a wet room in that they usually have one or two glass screens like this Studio panel, protecting the rest of your room from water, and they feature a low-level shower tray. The shower tray is usually fitted as close to the surface of the main bathroom as possible, creating an easily accessible space. Walk-in showers are typically cheaper and easier to install than wet rooms, as there is no need to create a gradient in the bathroom and you don’t have to waterproof the whole space.
Photo: @newbuildhomeproject on Instagram
Final Take!
Changing a bathroom into a wet room is a large but worthwhile project, especially if you want to create a more contemporary and inclusive shower area. Whether you decide to go for a true wet room or a walk-in shower, don’t forget to take a look at our wide range of products, or visit us in store for even more advice and ideas!
