Wetrooms or Traditional Bathroom Installations

Which is Right for Your Home?

The bathroom market has seen a big change towards more modern and easy-to-use designs in recent years, with wetrooms becoming more popular. This has made many homeowners think about whether to choose a wetroom or a traditional bathroom.

This choice isn’t just one about looks as it can really affect daily life and house value, with a new bathroom adding up to 5% to a home’s value.

Also, as the population gets older, the easy-to-use benefits of wetrooms are becoming more important, causing a 7% year-on-year growth in the easy-to-use bathroom market.

This guide looks at the main differences, good points, and things to think about for both wetrooms and traditional bathrooms, so you can make a good choice that fits your lifestyle, property, and long-term plans.

Understanding the Basics

A wetroom is an open-concept bathroom where the shower area seamlessly integrates with the rest of the space. The entire room is waterproofed, with a slightly sloped floor directing water to a central drain. There’s no step or barrier between the shower and the rest of the room, creating a sleek, minimalist look.

In contrast, a traditional bathroom typically features distinct areas for different functions. It usually includes a bathtub, a separate shower cubicle (or a shower over the bath), a toilet, and a sink. There’s a clear separation between wet and dry areas.

Here are a few key differences to keep in mind

Advantages of Wetrooms

Wetrooms have gained popularity in recent years due to their modern appeal and practical benefits. They excel in space optimisation, making them ideal for small or awkwardly shaped rooms.

Accessibility is another significant advantage of wetrooms. With no steps or barriers, they’re perfect for those with mobility issues and serve as an excellent way to future-proof your home as you age.

Cleaning a wetroom is generally easier due to fewer nooks and crannies. The open design allows for simpler maintenance, which can be a significant selling point for busy homeowners or those looking to rent out their property.

Advantages of Traditional Bathrooms

Traditional bathrooms have stood the test of time for good reason. They offer familiarity and versatility that suit a wide range of home styles. For families with young children, the presence of a bathtub is often a necessity, making traditional bathrooms a preferred choice.

One of the key benefits of a traditional bathroom is its ability to contain water splashes effectively. This can be particularly important in homes where water damage to surrounding areas is a concern.

In terms of resale value, traditional bathrooms often have a broader appeal, especially in family homes. Many potential buyers see a bathtub as a must-have feature, which can make your property more attractive in certain markets.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Property Type and Style

The type and style of your property play a crucial role in deciding between a wetroom and a traditional bathroom. Modern flats and contemporary homes often lend themselves well to the sleek, minimalist aesthetic of wetrooms. On the other hand, period properties or homes with a more classical style might benefit from the versatility of a traditional bathroom.

Number of Bathrooms

If you have multiple bathrooms in your home, you have more flexibility in your choices. Consider converting one bathroom into a wetroom while maintaining at least one traditional bathroom. This approach can offer the best of both worlds, catering to different needs and preferences.

For homes with only one bathroom, a traditional layout might be more versatile, especially if you’re considering selling in the future. However, if you’re committed to staying in your home long-term and a wetroom suits your lifestyle, don’t let this deter you.

Family Needs and Accessibility

Your family’s current and future needs should heavily influence your decision. Families with young children often prefer bathtubs for easy bathing. However, if you’re planning to age in place or have family members with mobility issues, a wetroom’s accessibility can be invaluable.

Budget and Bathroom Installation Considerations

Wetroom Installation:

• Requires professional waterproofing
• May need adjustments to floor levels
• Consider underfloor heating for quicker drying

Traditional Bathroom Installation:

• Generally straightforward for plumbers
• May require less structural work
• More flexible in terms of fixture placement

Wetrooms typically require more extensive waterproofing, which can increase initial costs. However, they can add significant value to your property in the right market. Traditional bathrooms might be more cost-effective to install but consider long-term value and functionality in your decision-making process.

Is a wet room the same as a bathroom?

No, a wet room is not exactly the same as a traditional bathroom. While both serve similar purposes, a wet room is an open-concept bathroom where the entire space is waterproofed. The shower area is typically level with the rest of the floor, with no enclosure or tray. Traditional bathrooms, on the other hand, have distinct areas for showering or bathing, often separated by screens or curtains.

What are the disadvantages of a wet room?

While wet rooms offer many benefits, they do have some drawbacks:

1. Higher initial costs due to extensive waterproofing
2. Potential for increased humidity throughout the room
3. Limited privacy if not designed with screens
4. Risk of water spreading beyond the shower area if not properly sloped
5. May not appeal to all potential buyers if you’re planning to sell

Is a wet room cheaper than a bathroom?

Generally, no. Wet rooms often have higher initial installation costs than traditional bathrooms due to the need for comprehensive waterproofing, specialised drainage systems, and potentially underfloor heating. However, they may offer long-term savings in maintenance and cleaning costs.

Can you turn a normal bathroom into a wet room?

Yes, it’s possible to convert a normal bathroom into a wet room, but it’s not a simple DIY project. The conversion typically involves:

1. Removing existing fixtures
2. Waterproofing the entire room
3. Installing a gradient floor for drainage
4. Fitting a new drainage system
5. Adding underfloor heating (optional but recommended)

This process usually requires professional expertise to ensure proper installation and prevent leaks.

Can you put a toilet in a wet room?

Yes, you can include a toilet in a wet room. In fact, many wet rooms incorporate all standard bathroom fixtures, including toilets, sinks, and sometimes even baths. The key is to ensure that all fixtures are suitable for the wet environment and that the room’s layout allows for comfortable use of all facilities.

Can you install a bath in a wet room?

Absolutely! While not as common, it’s entirely possible to install a bath in a wet room. This setup can offer the best of both worlds, providing the open feel of a wet room with the option for a relaxing soak. Freestanding baths work particularly well in wet room designs, adding a luxurious touch to the space.

Does a wet room devalue your house?

In most cases, a well-designed wet room will not devalue your house. In fact, it can often increase property value, especially in modern homes or urban areas. However, if it’s the only bathroom in a family home, the lack of a traditional bathtub might deter some potential buyers. The impact on value largely depends on your local property market and the overall design of your home.

How much does it cost to convert a bathroom into a wet room UK?

The cost of converting a bathroom into a wet room in the UK can vary significantly depending on factors such as room size, materials used, and labour costs in your area. It’s best to get quotes from local professionals for a more accurate estimate.

Do you need planning permission for a wet room?

In most cases, you don’t need planning permission to install a wet room in the UK, as it’s considered an internal alteration. However, there are exceptions:

1. If you live in a listed building
2. If the wet room involves major structural changes
3. If you’re converting a different type of room into a bathroom

It’s always best to check with your local planning authority if you’re unsure. Additionally, any electrical or plumbing work should comply with building regulations and be carried out by qualified professionals.

New Bathroom Installations from G&M

Choosing between a wetroom and a regular bathroom depends on your specific needs. Think about your future plans for your home, its current look, what your family wants, and what’s popular in your area if you’re thinking of selling.

Both choices have good points. Wetrooms are modern, easy to access, and make good use of space. Regular bathrooms are flexible and familiar. Think about these things along with what you need and can afford to make a good choice that will make your homework better and be worth more.

If you’re not sure, you might want to talk to a bathroom expert. Our team at G&M would be happy to discuss your requirements and can give you a personalised quote based on your situation. 

Simply get in touch with us today at 01206 212913, by email at info@gandmltd.co.uk or you can visit us at our Colchester showroom.