The majority of wet room problems arise as a result of ill-considered drainage and poor preparation. Almost all drainage problems lead to leaks – causing damage to decoration, loose tiles, damp problems and unpleasant odours. If undetected, or ignored for long periods, leaks can also cause extensive structural damage.
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.
Everything could get very wet
The fact that the shower is no longer housed in something, it is somewhat inevitable that the whole room could get wet when in use. This can make it tricky to keep things like towels, toilet paper and any other soft furnishings dry.
ii) check for leaks in the waste or waste pipe. Use a hose pipe (i.e NOT the shower itself) to run water directly into the waste. If you see drips/damp patch on your ceiling below then you have an issue with the waste/waste pipe which is easy and cheap to fix.
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.
A preformed floor or slope is one of the most important features in a wetroom. A poorly constructed floor slope can cause water to run in the wrong direction, instead of gently sloping towards the drain. Too great a slope increases the risk of slipping and too low a slope creates insufficient drainage.
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.
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.
Tiles are one of the most popular options for wet room flooring. They look good, are easy to keep clean, and offer plenty of scope for design in a wet room.
The most common cause of water ingress is a building fault or defect. Over time building materials can deteriorate. Below-standard workmanship can also lead to water ingress.
Use high-quality membranes specifically designed for wet rooms, ensuring they cover the entire floor and extend up the walls to a recommended height. Skimping on materials or neglecting corners can lead to disastrous leaks. Moisture is a wet room's constant companion.
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.
Indoors, mould can thrive in damp spaces such as wetrooms and bathrooms, especially if they are poorly ventilated.
In conclusion, the dream of having an upstairs wet room is achievable and can significantly enhance the accessibility and value of your home.
The majority of wetroom trays are designed for use with a square or linear drain within the floor itself. Below the surface, it is possible to choose either horizontal or vertical drains, with vertical drains usually only installed where there is an obstruction below the floor surface for a horizontal waste pipe.
Atmospheric Moisture
Over time, this condensation can accumulate and drip onto the floor, causing it to become wet. This issue is particularly common in poorly ventilated areas, such as bathrooms or basements. To mitigate atmospheric moisture, ensure that your home has adequate ventilation, especially in humid areas.
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.
Ideally, a weekly cleaning routine is recommended to prevent the buildup of grime and mould. However, more frequent cleaning might be necessary if your wet room sees heavy use. Day to day, simply using a squeegee to move any water remaining on the floor into the drain can prevent the accumulation of bacteria.
It is highly recommended that the shower walls are waterproofed 2200mm high or above the shower head and the remaining bathroom floor with 100mm up all walls. Note: When applying reinforcement tape to the drain, the tape must be at least 40mm on to the drain body on all sides. Ensure VS30 is dry before tiling.
PCI Lastogum is the most popular sealant for wet rooms and walk-in showers. It is a one-part, moisture-curing sealant that is easy to apply. It is also mold and mildew resistant, ensuring that your property is protected from damp, mould and water damage of all kinds.