A lot of people in recent years have been installing a wetroom in their bathroom as a contemporary stylish feature that is becoming increasingly popular. Basically a wetroom is a shower room in which the need for a conventional shower tray is negated and the water is allowed to drain through the floor. The fad can be attributed to a promotion in design magazines glamorising the wetroom and people coming back from the continent where they are used extensively.



The one problem is that on the continent it is hot enough for any leaks that may occur in a wetroom can be evaporated before the winter sets in and freezing becomes a problem. In Britain most houses have timber framed floors rather than the European concrete, this can be an issue as wooden floors tend to rot when exposed to extended periods of moisture. A widespread problem may occur if your wetroom is not fitted properly and has leaks. They do however have advantages if fitted properly.

One advantage that comes with installing a wetroom is the stylish contemporary look it will create. Ultra modern it is an essential design feature in many new homes. Added to this if installed as part of a second bathroom, a wetroom can add serious value to your property when it does come around to selling.

They make a great option in smaller bathrooms where space is at a premium, by removing the bath a stylish and generously spaced bathroom can be created. In general it will be easier to clean, especially if you also install wall hung fittings such as the toilet and sink; a swift wipe over with a mop can clean the whole room in minutes. With no shower screen it makes these types of room even easier to clean.

There are however disadvantages, in extremely small bathrooms the problem of splash back can mean towels and toilet rolls getting wet easily. You will definitely need to have the room fitted out by a professional, leaks can cause serious structural damage to your home, and so for peace of mind, fitting it yourself is not an option.

Tiling will have to be carried out form floor to ceiling, which can be expensive and will most probably have recurrent maintenance costs every few years. If you choose to convert your main bathroom into a wetroom, you may actually harm the price of your property rather than increasing it.

The installation will most likely be the most expensive cost, getting the gradient right so the water does not stagnate is vital to keeping the room clean. Water proofing of the entire room will also have to be carried out involving priming the floor and covering everything with a syrupy membrane. This is definitely a job for the professionals as these materials are difficult to handle. Tiling also needs to be done to a professional standard; the installation of a wetroom is in no way a DIY job.

It may also be an idea to install some form of under-floor heating system. Not only will this make the room a lot warmer during winter months; especially if using granite or other thick stone tiles. It will also add to the drying capacity of the room, further protecting against the hazard of leaks. Most experts will advise the installation of under-floor heating in any wetroom.

So if you have the money there is no reason not to install a wetroom. They are the ultimate in style and modernity and will add a stunning design feature to your home. Take on board the advice that you should have the installation carried out by professionals as if you do not the consequences can be devastating and costly. There is little doubt that this fad in interior design is growing, and with the simplistic beauty that wet rooms offer this fad will undoubtedly continue to become more widespread.