Wet room bathrooms were relatively unheard of at this time 10 years ago. But since wet room-specific products were introduced in 2013, popularity has soared and there’s no indication of the trend slowing down any time soon.
When wet room products hit the bathroom market, they were particularly popular amongst individuals with mobility issues due to the one-level selling factor. However, as traction grew, the demand for this style of bathroom increased to the mass market for a variety of different reasons.
We’re now seeing all types of wet rooms all over the UK, including those which are uber luxurious and a far cry from the basic style when they were first introduced.
So, what’s so good about a wet room? Are wet rooms a trend which will disappear, or are they here to stay? Read on to find out how a wet room stands up against a traditional bathroom, and if it could be a great option for you.
What Is A Wet Room?
Originating in Japan, basins and toilets are traditionally in a separate room to bathing essentials such as a shower or bath . Culturally, bathing in Japan is an everyday observance used not just to wash, but also to stimulate well-being and this is where the origins of the wet room began.
A wet room is an open space within a bathroom or ensuite that typically has a distinct showering space. The shower area is aligned with the bathroom floor and on one level with no steps.
Typically, wet rooms feature a minimalist design aesthetic, although we’ve seen this trend develop over time so this may not always be the case. A wet room can be tiled from floor to ceiling or covered in bathroom wall panels so it’s completely water resistant.
You will often find the drain and shower waste in the centre of the wet room. Whilst the shower waste may seem completely level, there will be a slight incline created by a wet room tray installed under the tiles. The wet room tray directs running water to the waste.
Traditional wet rooms do not include any sort of shower screen or glass screen . However, as the trend has developed over time, glass screens are becoming increasingly common in wet rooms.
Wet Room Vs Shower Tray: What Are The Differences?
There are various differences between a wet room and a traditional style bathroom. One of the main differences being that a traditional bathroom would typically include a shower enclosure or over bath shower. You would have to step into the enclosure, or step over the bath to take your shower. Whereas, a wet room has no step up as it’s level with the rest of the bathroom flooring.
Therefore, in a traditional bathroom, there is a clear contrast between the bathing area and the rest of the bathroom. But, in a wet room, there is no beginning and end to the bathing area.
Are Wet Rooms A Good Idea?
As with many bathroom options, there are pros and cons to both a traditional style bathroom and wet room bathroom. However, you may be surprised to learn there are a lot more benefits to a wet room than you originally thought, including:
Endless Design Possibilities
As wet rooms are designed to take up most, if not all of your bathroom space, the design possibilities are endless. If starting from scratch, you really do have a blank canvas to work with.
From tiles and bathroom wall panels to varying aesthetics, the sky really is the limit with wet rooms as you’re not constrained by other bathroom products such as a bath.
Increased Property Value
You may be surprised to learn that wet rooms frequently increase a property’s overall value. Due to the ever-growing popularity and luxury-feel, wet rooms could now be perceived as a selling-factor for a property. Key features of a wet room are open plan design, contemporary fixtures and ultramodern charm.
A word of warning though: if you’re based in a family area and potential buyers for your property are families with young children, you may want to avoid installing a wet room. Many families still favour baths for ease of bathing children.
Great Space-Saving Solution
Particularly helpful for small bathrooms or properties, wet rooms offer the greatest space-saving solution on the market at the moment. Why? Wet rooms negate the need for bulkier bathroom products such as shower enclosures or baths.
For example, when paired with a smaller basin and pedestal or cloakroom vanity unit, the space-saving opportunities really do increase with a wet room.
Easy To Clean
One of the most prominent benefits with a wet room is the easy cleaning aspect. As most of us are busier than ever, cleaning may be a loathed job, low on the list of priorities. Therefore, with limited fixtures and fittings within a wet room, cleaning time massively decreases.
If combined with wall hung furniture such as a wall hung toilet and wall hung vanity unit, the floor becomes entirely clear of obstructions meaning sweeping and mopping has never been quicker.
Easy To Access
A wet room is the perfect solution for the elderly or those with mobility issues due to the ease of access they provide. Thanks to their open plan concept and level flooring, wet rooms provide an efficient, whilst stylish solution for those with mobility issues.
FAQs
Can I Transform My Bathroom Into A Wet Room?
Yes! Most bathrooms would be suitable for converting into a wet room but this of course varies from room to room. In very simple terms, any shower enclosures, baths, wastage and pipework would need to be moved.
The floor would also be laid with waterproof boarding. Once all waterproofing has been completed, aesthetic decor is all that remains, including: tiling or shower wall panelling, shower, basin and toilet choices!
We would expect installing a wet room to take no more than 1-2 weeks depending on logistics. Of course, we always recommend you obtain a qualified plumber and/or bathroom installer to complete any work you plan to undertake.
Can A Wet Room Have A Bath?
Yes! Traditionally a wet room would not include a bath. However, as the trend has evolved, more people are incorporating wet room enclosures into traditional suites with a bath. For the epitome of luxury, and if you have the space to play with, consider a freestanding bath to really finish that high-end wet room look.
What is a wet room kit?
A wet room kit can vary depending on supplier, but typically consists of the elements required to waterproof a wet room floor. A kit may include: wet room waste, adhesive, waterproof tape, internal wall corners, floor primer and tanking membrane. Luckily ours all comes in one complete kit!
If you’re only converting an area of your bathroom to a wet room, you’re essentially installing a walk-in shower and may also require a wet room tray to be installed underneath the tiles. Our wet room trays are available in a selection of sizes.
Any reputable plumber or bathroom fitter will know exactly what you need to create a wet room, so be sure to consult with a qualified professional before making any purchases.
What other bathroom items can I pick to go in a wet room?
The possibilities are endless when it comes to designing your wet room. But wall hung furniture, such as wall hung vanity units and wall hung toilets, are the perfect accompaniment for that luxury finish.
If you’re fortunate enough to have plenty of space and are also considering a bath, a modern freestanding bath really would create the ‘wow’ factor in your new dreamy wet room.
So, Is A Wet Room Right For Me?
There are many pros and cons to having a wet room over a traditional bathroom but ultimately it’s down to personal preference and taste. However, it really doesn’t need to be one or the other!
As we’ve seen the wet room trend evolve over time, people are increasingly merging traditional and wet room elements together. So, why not have your cake and eat it so to speak?
As a wet room installation or conversion can be a big undertaking - we always recommend you hire a qualified and reputable plumber or bathroom fitter to complete any work for you!
Still not sure? Check out our wide range of wet room products to help make that all important decision!
