A Guide to Wet Rooms

The concept of wet rooms originates from Scandinavia, where they do not have shower trays. Instead a waterproof membrane is installed underneath the floor and wall tiles.

So, even if the sealing product for the tiles breaks down the water cannot penetrate the membrane. The key to a successful wet room is to stay watertight; it must be installed properly and tanked correctly. The under base must also be completely solid.

The best size rooms for a wet room to be built are either a small bathroom, where it creates space. Or a large bathroom, where the room can be turned in to a wet room that is a luxurious spa type sanctuary. By using designer shower fittings, different floor levels, under floor heating and using materials such as mosaics. A large modern wet room? can be a striking focal point in a home.

When building a wet room the overall feel is one of simplicity and it is important to consider certain things when designing your unique wet room.

• Making a wet room waterproof
  The whole room needs to be tanked or made waterproof. The best way of doing this is to get a professional who will use all the right materials. It is vital to ensure the wet room area where the floor meets the walls is completely sealed as this is the biggest problem area.
• Floor drainage in a wet room
  To accommodate the waste fittings the floor will need to be raised by about 5cm and probably strengthened as well. There must also be a gently slope towards the waste outlet to assist the water drainage when installing a wet room. Also ensure that the type of flooring you choose is non-slip.
• Have a power shower in your wet room
  A good shower pump will add to the effect of a designer wet room, however, you must make sure that your waste can cope will the volume of water.
• Lighting a wet room
  Considering how you rare going to light your wet room before you start building it is very important. The right amount of lighting will give your wet room an elegant atmosphere.
• Condensation in a wet room
  Condensation can build up very quickly and it can damage paint and create dampness and possibly mould in the room, which is why good ventilation is very important.
• Adhesive in a wet room
  You must ensure that your builder is using the top quality adhesives. It may cost a small amount extra but it will make you wet room last much longer.
• Wall hung sanitary fittings in a wet room
  Wall hung sanitary fittings are advisable in a room that is going to be permanently wet and they are much more suitable. Also they will make the room much easier to clean