Key Takeaways
- Eliminates the shower tray to create a continuous floor, making the room feel larger.
- Requires 'tanking' (full waterproofing) of floors and walls to prevent structural damage.
- A single fixed glass panel (deflector) provides containment without closing off space.
- Wall-hung toilets and floating vanities keep the floor clear for easy cleaning and drainage.
Why Choose a Wet Room?
In a tiny bathroom, standard shower enclosures chop up the space with trays and frames. A wet room removes these visual and physical barriers. By running the same tile across the entire floor, the eye perceives a single, expansive surface, instantly making a 30 sq. ft. room feel like 50.
Critical Components
A liquid membrane or waterproof matting applied under the tiles. This is the most critical step to prevent leaks.
A pre-sloped board that replaces floorboards, creating the perfect gradient towards the drain for tiling.
High-flow traps (up to 40L/min) are essential to prevent standing water, especially with power showers.
Design Strategies
The Deflector Panel
Even in a full wet room, you usually want to keep the toilet paper dry. A single, frameless glass panel (700-900mm wide) separates the wet and dry zones without closing off the room visually.
Floating Fixtures
Use wall-mounted toilets and basins. By keeping the floor entirely visible and accessible, the room feels larger and cleaning becomes a simple matter of hosing down the floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I turn a small powder room into a wet room?
Yes, this is one of the best uses for a wet room design. Because you don't need a bulky shower tray or door swing space, you can often fit a functional shower into a room as small as 1.5m x 1.5m. However, you must ensure the entire room is tanked (waterproofed) up to the ceiling.
Is a wet room expensive to install?
Generally, yes. A wet room costs about 20-30% more than a standard bathroom renovation. This is due to the labor-intensive waterproofing process (tanking) and the need to re-floor the room to create the correct gradient for drainage. However, it adds significant value to the property.
Do I need a special door for a wet room?
The door to the room itself should open outwards if possible, to maximize space inside. It must also be a water-resistant material or well-sealed. You do not need a shower door inside the room, though a simple glass deflector panel is recommended to protect the toilet and towels from spray.
How do I stop water going everywhere?
Gradient is key. The floor must slope towards the drain at a ratio of about 1:80. A 'wet room former' (pre-formed tray that goes under the tiles) ensures this slope is perfect. Additionally, a glass splash screen (deflector) prevents direct spray from hitting dry areas.
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