Wet rooms are becoming one of the most desired features in UK households. They are perfect for any contemporary interior, yet people may think that they require skilled design and installation beyond that of a normal bathroom. The key to this is understanding your requirements and making the required alterations beforehand.

What is a Wetroom?

The first question you’ll be asking yourself is what specifically is a wet room?

A wet room is a waterproofed open area that can be as small or as generous as you feel. In contrast to traditional bathrooms there isn’t any enclosure as the space is open plan.

As most bathrooms are not as generous in space, we suggest in a small area that you have a Technik wet room panel (or similar) as this prevents the rest of the room getting sprayed with water.

If you are looking at wanting space in the bathroom and adding a contemporary feel to the property, a wet room will no doubt achieve this along with adding that little touch of luxury. It is also easier to clean as there is no shower tray to worry about, and by adding a wall hung basin and toilet it makes your life even easier.

Wetroom Installation

Will you need permission to install a wetroom?

Well from your significant other perhaps. It is recommended that you check with your local planning department about planning permission and also speak to the building regulations officer before installation.

When planning any wet room construction, ensuring water runs straight to the drain is essential, and the floor must have a gradual slope with a gentle even gradient. The installation of the wet room deck will depend upon whether you have a timber or concrete area. At Bathshop321 we stock a wet room preformed kit, which is a floor former that has the drainage gradient already built in. In new builds the floor tends to be concrete, but timber floors are typical in retrofit or first floor bathrooms. This kit is designed to work in both situations.

When fitting to existing floors, if you find you cannot submerge the floor former into the joists, then the rest of the floor will have to be raised so that it will sit flush with the performer tray. It’s also recommended that the door threshold is raised about 5mm from the base of the door frame, in case there was for any reason a flood. The whole room will also need to be waterproofed. This involves using a membrane which is applied onto a thin bed of flexible tile adhesive, then using special waterproof joining tape cover all the joints and fit the preformed corners. This will create a watertight finish which maintained correctly will last a lifetime.

Wetroom Flooring

When it comes to the flooring, tiles are the most popular covering, as they will give you that luxurious, upmarket feel. With a wet room you have the freedom to choose a larger tile which means less grout for easier cleaning. When choosing the floor stay away from polished tiles as these can be extremely slippery when wet. Limestone, marble and slate are always popular choices as it helps to create that spa-like feeling. However, be cautious as due to their porous nature they may need to be resealed every few months to prevent staining and water damage.

Finally under floor heating is a great addition to any wet room scenario, not only does it mean you have toasty toes but any moisture will soon evaporate. At Bathshop321, we do under floor heating packages that run off electric, which are perfect to go with our wet room kits designed to work on both timber and concrete floors.

Adding Value to the Property

Adding a wetroom as a second shower room or en-suite will usually add value to a property, if not it will definitely add appeal to your prospective buyers in a competitive market. Wet rooms have a perceived high value as it gives the home a luxury spa feel, and this can be considered a bonus to the resell value. Tread carefully though when completely converting your main bathroom in a family home, as perspective buyers may expect a family bathroom.