What is a Wet Room?

In this article, we explain what a wet room is, why you might want one and what benefits they bring.

If you’re contemplating converting your bathroom to a wet room, you’re not alone – this is a popular choice for many homeowners across the country. But is it right for you? Let’s find out…

What constitutes a wet room?

Some are confused about what constitutes a wet room so it may help to know exactly what is meant by the term “wet room”.

Simply put, a wet room is an open plan style of room where the bath is removed and replaced by a shower area with everything within the room all on the same level. A wet room which is sufficiently large enough will be able to do away with any screen or shower enclosure, so that the shower is completely open. Smaller wet rooms may still need the benefit of a shower screen to prevent water splashing over the rest of the room. Choosing to fit a shower screen is entirely down to personal preference and how you want your wet room to look.

Whether you use a glass screen or not, wet rooms are undeniably stylish

When a wet room is constructed, the whole bathroom will be waterproofed or tanked—which simply means making walls and floors around wet areas watertight. The shower area will have a flush drain to allow water to safely drain away rather than remain standing.

Who would choose a wet room?

Wet rooms are especially suitable for people who have mobility or balance issues because there are no obstacles to climb over or negotiate — you can simply walk in and out of the shower area. An easy access wet room is a practical option for wheelchair users as the floor is all one level.

A wet room can be installed anywhere in the home and either on the ground or upper floors, providing the supporting floor is of concrete or timber construction and in good condition. However, this isn’t the only reason that people choose to have a wet room installed.

Wet rooms are ideal for those with restricted mobility or wheelchair users. Find out more about our Assisted Living range of accessible bathrooms

It is also a fantastic way of utilising a difficult or unused space in the home—turning it into a practical family or guest bathroom. Wet rooms need less cleaning and maintenance than a traditional bathroom because of the larger shower area. Tiled, open plan walls and floors mean just a quick wipe down is enough to maintain hygiene standards for all users.

What are the main benefits of a wet room?

1. Add value to your home

Wet rooms are increasingly replacing outdated traditional bathrooms due to their stylish design, better use of space and usability. A wet room gives a touch of contemporary modern luxury to your home and will certainly add value when you come to sell.

2. Can be installed anywhere in your home

Any size or shape of wet room can be designed to suit your personal needs and your budget and can be installed in any room, on any floor providing the supporting floors are of suitable construction. Many homeowners are seeing the benefit of installing a wet room within a loft conversion as a way of extending living space.

3. Creates the illusion of space in your bathroom

By removing the bath and replacing it with a waterproofed open shower you can really open up the space and completely reconfigure your tired old bathroom.

These days, wet rooms are not just for those with mobility issues. A stylish, well-designed and installed wet room could work well in any kind of home.

Shop wet rooms

If you’ve been inspired to create your very own wet room, why not browse our full wet room range today?

More wet room ideas and advice

Discover more fresh bathroom inspiration and practical advice on wet rooms here at Victorian Plumbing.