According to the 2024 US Houzz Bathrooms Trends Study, bathroom remodels increased resale value by 26%. The report also shows that wet rooms are gaining popularity in modern home designs, with the top motivation for installation being design versatility, space efficiency, and ease of cleaning.
Wet rooms are growing increasingly popular with high-end renovators and interior designers. Think of these as a splash zone for your bathroom, an area where the shower and/or bathtub are placed, usually surrounded by tile, where the water can stay separate from your sink and toilet.
A wet room is a great option for smaller bathrooms. If you don't particularly need or want a bath, you can simply remove it and install a shower, opening up the room. There is no need for a bulkier shower enclosure with doors that may intrude upon what little space you already have.
With many people increasingly valuing wellness rooms and the infusion of luxury into everyday routines, the wet room has become a popular design style. Homeowners looking to upgrade their bathrooms to create a more spa-like experience may consider adding this high-end bathroom layout.
Modern wet rooms are not only hugely practical, but they can also look incredibly stylish, meaning they will always add value to your home. The key aspect to getting it right is choosing the correct installer.
In addition, a well prepared, installed and tiled wet room, that is cared for should last through the rigors of daily life for a lifetime.
Indoors, mould can thrive in damp spaces such as wetrooms and bathrooms, especially if they are poorly ventilated.
No, you don't need a special type of floor for a wetroom. Most flooring you could use in a bathroom or even a kitchen can be used in a wetroom. However, you'll want to consider elements such as: Waterproofing.
Generally a lot more expensive than a walk-in shower. Everything can get wet if completely open plan. The whole room can get steamy and damp.
Walk-in showers are a cheaper alternative to wet rooms, they include a shower tray and various designs. They give a modern look and are easier to install.
Poor Drainage
Undoubtedly, one of the major causes of wet room leakages and issues comes from poor drainage. This could be the result of a drain that hasn't been correctly fitted within the floor or a drain that can't cope with the volume of water produced.
Wet rooms are 100% waterproof and that's that. What leaks is poor workmanship of poorly installed floors. This usually occurs when corners are being cut and money is trying to be saved. We're not saying it has to cost the world to install a wetroom, but do be prepared to spend some money and have the job done properly.
The frequency of changing a wet room floor depends on factors like the quality of materials used, maintenance practices, and general wear and tear. Well-installed and properly maintained wet room floors can last for many years before requiring replacement.
Both solid surface tubs and acrylic tubs make excellent options for wet rooms, as they can withstand this type of environment.
An Excessive Amount of Water is Exposed to the Floor
This type of bathroom system has disadvantages, one being that the excessive amount of water exposed to the floor can make it unsafe for people to walk or stand on. The water creates a slip risk and can lead to injuries, especially for older people.
“Adding a new bathroom to your home will add an extra 2.88% to the value of it, a wetroom is likely to add even more.” suggests Phil Spencer, best known for Location, Location, Location.
Benefits of Wet Rooms
Wet rooms provide a surprising number of benefits to homeowners. With more options in terms of design, a space that's easier to clean, and a bathroom that is easily accessible, this new bathroom trend is definitely worth considering for your next renovation.
Wet Room Bathrooms Are Easier to Clean
The open spaces and main drain mean the bathroom doesn't need to be wiped down as often as a shower door to keep it clean.
Most often, these dots are mildew or mold growth. Ensuring mildew and microbial growth stay out of bathrooms and kitchens is challenging since these rooms involve regular water usage. Some bathrooms also lack the correct ventilation for proper drying and moisture control.
Keeping your shower doors closed at all hours of the day locks in moist air and can lead to mold. After you shower, the interior space is at its wettest point. Try to keep the doors open for a half hour or so until the steam clears. If you have a fan in your bathroom, make sure to turn it on and let the air circulate.
The open-plan design can make wet rooms feel colder than traditional bathrooms, as heat dissipates more quickly. Additionally, without barriers to contain water, the entire floor can become wet and slippery. Non-slip tiles and underfloor heating can help mitigate these issues, but they add to the expense.
Wet room remodels typically cost about 20-30% more than traditional bathroom installations, according to Fixr data. The price may vary depending on factors like location and materials used. The high cost is due to the need for extensive waterproofing and specialized drainage.
The best flooring options for a full wet room include tiles or commercial safety flooring that can be fully sealed to avoid any water damage.