
15 Oct Wet Room vs. Traditional Bathroom: Which Is Right for You?
When planning a bathroom renovation, one of the major decisions homeowners face is whether to opt for a wet room or a traditional bathroom. Each option has its own unique benefits, and the choice often depends on your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between wet rooms and traditional bathrooms to help you decide which is the right fit for your home.
What Is a Wet Room?
A wet room is a completely waterproofed space where the shower is integrated into the overall room design, with no separate shower enclosure or tray. The floor has a gentle slope towards a drain, and the entire room serves as a shower area. Wet rooms are often tiled from floor to ceiling to ensure full waterproofing.
What Is a Traditional Bathroom?
A traditional bathroom typically includes a shower enclosure, bath, or both, with specific areas designated for each function. The shower is often enclosed with glass doors, and the bathtub is a separate fixture. Traditional bathrooms are compartmentalised, with each zone designed for different purposes.
Advantages of a Wet Room
1. Maximises Space
A wet room is particularly beneficial in small or awkwardly shaped bathrooms. By eliminating the need for a shower enclosure or bathtub, you free up floor space, making the room feel larger and more open.
- Ideal for Small Bathrooms: Wet rooms work exceptionally well in smaller spaces, where a traditional bathroom layout may feel cramped. Without barriers, the room looks and feels more expansive.
2. Easy Maintenance and Cleaning
Wet rooms are designed with minimal barriers, making them easier to clean. With fewer fixtures, less glass, and no shower trays, you can quickly wipe down surfaces without dealing with hard-to-reach areas.
- Seamless Design: The open layout and use of durable materials like tiles make cleaning more efficient. There are no corners or edges for grime and mould to build up.
3. Increased Accessibility
Wet rooms are an excellent choice for people with mobility issues or for those who are looking to future-proof their home. The open, barrier-free design makes it easy to access the shower without stepping over a threshold, and the absence of a shower tray reduces the risk of tripping.
- Great for Ageing in Place: Wet rooms are often favoured by homeowners looking for an accessible design. They allow wheelchair access and create a safer, more navigable space for those with reduced mobility.
4. Modern and Stylish Aesthetic
The sleek, minimalist design of wet rooms lends itself to a modern, contemporary style. Tiled from floor to ceiling, wet rooms create a cohesive look, often associated with high-end luxury.
- Spa-Like Feel: Wet rooms are a popular choice for those who want a luxurious, spa-like bathroom experience. The open layout, combined with rainfall showerheads and natural materials, creates an elegant, relaxing space.
Advantages of a Traditional Bathroom
1. Defined Zones for Different Activities
Traditional bathrooms offer more defined zones for different purposes. If you prefer the separation of a shower and bathtub, or if your household includes multiple users with different needs, a traditional layout might be more functional.
- Bathtub Option: For families, a bathtub is often essential, especially for households with young children. Traditional bathrooms allow for the inclusion of a separate bathtub while still maintaining a shower area.
2. More Privacy
The enclosed nature of a traditional shower offers more privacy compared to the open layout of a wet room. For those who prefer more privacy when showering, an enclosed space may feel more comfortable.
- Enclosures for Showering: Many people appreciate the sense of privacy and containment offered by a glass-enclosed shower in a traditional bathroom.
3. Prevent Water Spread
In a traditional bathroom, the use of a shower enclosure, bathtub, or shower tray helps to contain water and prevent it from spreading throughout the room. This can be particularly useful in bathrooms with wooden floors or other materials that may not be fully waterproof.
- Controlled Water Flow: With a shower enclosure, water is restricted to a specific area, reducing the chance of water splashing onto bathroom furniture, mirrors, or other surfaces.
4. Easier to Retrofit
If you’re renovating an older home, installing a wet room can require significant modifications to the existing plumbing and structure, which may not always be feasible. Traditional bathrooms, on the other hand, are easier to update or retrofit with modern fixtures without extensive remodelling.
Considerations for a Wet Room
1. Cost
Wet rooms generally require more waterproofing than traditional bathrooms, which can increase the cost of installation. Ensuring that the room is fully waterproofed (also known as tanking) is essential to prevent leaks and water damage.
- Higher Installation Costs: Due to the need for extra waterproofing and sloping the floor for drainage, wet rooms can be more expensive to install.
2. Potential Water Damage
If not properly installed or maintained, wet rooms can be prone to water leakage, which can lead to damage in other areas of the home. It’s vital to ensure high-quality waterproofing and professional installation to avoid costly repairs later on.
- Proper Drainage Is Key: Ensuring the room is sloped correctly to the drain is essential to prevent water pooling.
Considerations for a Traditional Bathroom
1. Space Limitations
Traditional bathrooms can feel more confined in small spaces, especially when both a bathtub and shower enclosure are included. This can make a smaller bathroom feel even more cramped.
2. Higher Maintenance
Enclosed shower units, glass doors, and other fixtures in traditional bathrooms require more maintenance, as dirt, soap scum, and mould can accumulate in hard-to-clean areas like tracks and corners.
Which Is Right for You?
The decision between a wet room and a traditional bathroom depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and the design of your home.
- Choose a Wet Room if: You have a small space, want a modern, open look, or need an accessible bathroom for mobility reasons.
- Choose a Traditional Bathroom if: You prefer defined spaces, want a bathtub, or are concerned about containing water in a specific area.
Whether you opt for a wet room or a traditional bathroom, both options offer distinct advantages. Consider your space, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences when deciding which option is the best fit for your home.