Wet room vs bathroom: which is right for your home?

What is a wet room?

A wet room has a fully waterproofed floor and walls, with the shower area open to the room and a floor that slopes to a drain. A traditional bathroom has a tray or bath that contains the water.

Why people choose one

• It can feel larger, with no tray or step to break up the floor.
• It is easier to move around, which helps if mobility is a concern.
• It can look sleek, with continuous tiling.

The drawbacks

• The waterproofing has to be done properly, by someone with experience, or leaks can cause serious damage.
• The floor needs the correct slope to a drain, which can affect the floor structure.
• Splashes can reach more of the room, so the layout and screen matter.
• It may not suit every room, especially an upstairs room on a timber floor, without proper preparation.

Questions to ask your installer

• How will you waterproof the floor and walls, and with what system?
• How will the floor slope and where will the drain be?
• Does the floor structure need strengthening or changing?
• Will the work come with a guarantee?

When a traditional bathroom is simpler

If you like a bath, have a tight budget for the work or an awkward floor, a traditional layout with a walk-in shower tray and screen gives much of the open feeling with less risk.

Ventilation

Either way, good extraction keeps moisture and mould under control.

See it first

Upload a photo of your bathroom to GlowUpp to see AI-generated ideas, then talk the options through with a plumber or bathroom fitter. Always ask a qualified professional before moving gas, electrics or plumbing, or changing anything structural, and check your lease or local rules if you rent or live in a conservation area.