Wet Room

While a traditional shower is enclosed in a cubicle or behind a curtain within the bathroom space, a wet room takes a different approach. A wet room is an open, fully waterproofed space where the shower area is not confined or separated by any physical barrier. The wet room’s floor gently slopes towards a drain, allowing water to flow away seamlessly. The seamless design enhances ease of use and accessibility, making it a desirable choice for people with mobility issues. Moreover, the open-concept design of a wet room offers a sleek, modern aesthetic, and with the right design and finishes, can significantly boost the value of your home. It’s also worth noting that, unlike conventional showers, installing a wet room requires professional expertise to ensure proper waterproofing and prevent any potential water damage.

The cost of installing a wet room can vary significantly based on factors such as the size of the room, the materials used, the complexity of the design, and your geographical location. On average, a basic wet room installation in the UK can start from around £6,000-£9,000. However, for a more luxurious design with high-end fixtures and finishes, you might be looking at a cost upwards of £10,000. It’s important to note that these are rough estimates and the actual cost can fluctuate. We recommend scheduling a consultation with us at Modtech Designer Bathrooms for a more accurate quotation tailored to your specific requirements.

The cost comparison between a wet room and a traditional bathroom can vary based on several factors. In some cases, installing a wet room could be more expensive due to the additional waterproofing (tanking) process and the potential need for a special drain installation. On the other hand, a traditional bathroom with luxury fittings and fixtures may cost more than a simple wet room design. It’s also worth noting that while the upfront cost of a wet room might be higher, it could add significant value to your property, potentially offsetting the initial investment. As always, costs can vary greatly depending on your specific requirements and choices. For a more accurate comparison, we recommend getting personalised quotes for both a wet room and traditional bathroom based on your specific needs and preferences.

Typically, you do not need planning permission to install a wet room in your home as it’s usually classified under ‘permitted development.’ This means you are generally allowed to carry out this kind of internal work without having to apply for permission from your local planning authority. However, if you live in a listed building or plan to make structural changes, such as altering the building’s façade or increasing the building’s footprint, you may require planning permission. Furthermore, if you’re converting a room that wasn’t originally a bathroom into a wet room, you’ll need to comply with building regulations, particularly concerning ventilation and drainage. Always consult with a professional or your local planning authority to ensure you’re in compliance with the relevant regulations and permissions.

Yes, a wet room can be integrated into virtually any bathroom, irrespective of its size or layout. The open-plan design of a wet room is versatile and adaptable, allowing it to be installed in a large family bathroom, a small en-suite, or even in a downstairs cloakroom. However, careful planning and professional installation are crucial to ensure proper drainage and waterproofing, especially in smaller or irregularly shaped bathrooms. At Modtech Designer Bathrooms, we have extensive experience in creating bespoke wet rooms that make optimal use of space while delivering a sophisticated, modern aesthetic.

Yes, it is perfectly fine to install a wet room upstairs. In fact, with proper design and installation, a wet room can be installed on any floor of a property. The key aspect to consider is the waterproofing, or ‘tanking’, process. This ensures that all surfaces, including walls and floors, are completely sealed to prevent any water leakage to floors below. At Modtech Designer Bathrooms, we specialise in these installations and use top quality materials and techniques to ensure a safe and secure wet room installation, regardless of the location in your home. However, structural considerations may come into play, and it’s always advisable to consult with professionals before proceeding with the installation.

Absolutely, a wet room is an excellent option for a small bathroom. Its open plan design eliminates the need for traditional shower enclosures, freeing up space and creating a more open and airy feel. This can make your small bathroom appear larger and more spacious. Additionally, the seamless floor-to-ceiling design may allow for more creative tile and décor options, enhancing the aesthetics of your space. However, the design and installation of a wet room in a small bathroom need careful planning and expertise to ensure optimal use of space and functionality. At Modtech Designer Bathrooms, we specialise in designing and installing wet rooms in bathrooms of all sizes, ensuring that each project is tailored to the specific needs and preferences of our clients.

Tiling is a common choice for wet rooms due to its waterproof nature and the wide variety of styles available. However, it’s not the only option. Wet rooms do need to have a water-resistant finish for the walls and floors, but this can be achieved through different materials. For instance, waterproof panels made from acrylic or tempered glass can also be used and often provide a quicker, easier installation process than tiling. Additionally, vinyl or resin flooring can be a practical choice for the floor. However, whichever material you choose, ensuring that it’s correctly sealed and waterproofed is crucial to the long-term success of your wet room. At Modtech Designer Bathrooms, we can advise you on the best materials for your specific needs and preferences.

Yes, it is possible to convert a downstairs toilet into a wet room. This can be an excellent solution for maximising the use of space and enhancing the functionality of your home. There are a few key factors to consider for such a conversion, the most important being the size of the existing space. While wet rooms are known for their flexibility in design, the area must be adequate enough to fit a shower, proper drainage, and allow for comfortable movement. Additionally, careful attention must be given to the waterproofing process during installation to ensure that no water escapes into other areas of your home. Remember, professional advice and assistance are crucial for such transformations to ensure a successful result. At Modtech Designer Bathrooms, we have extensive experience in converting various spaces into efficient and stylish wet rooms.