Help & advice
Wet room or enclosed shower?
Wet rooms are likely to consume more water, and in our experience get colder faster than an enclosed shower, so the enclosed shower is the more water and energy efficient option.
Wet Room
A wet room is a bathroom design in which the entire room, or a significant portion of it, serves as a waterproof shower area. The distinguishing feature of a wet room is the absence of a traditional shower enclosure.
In a wet room design, a tray is not typically visible underneath the shower. Instead, the entire floor of the wet room is constructed to be waterproof, and the water drains directly into a floor drain. The floor is sloped toward a drain to allow water to flow freely.
Enclosed Shower
An enclosed shower refers to a traditional shower design where the shower area is enclosed by glass or plastic doors.
Deciding factors
In favour of the wet room:
- Open and spacious feel - wet rooms create a sense of openness and spaciousness, making even small bathroom designs appear larger
- Accessibility - ideal for individuals with mobility issues, as there are no barriers like shower enclosures or curbs to navigate
- Versatility in design - allowing for various configurations and creative use of space
- Easy to clean - generally easier to clean with no shower doors or curtains, reducing the risk of mould and mildew
In favour of an enclosed shower:
- Wet rooms splash back - without a shower enclosure, water can splash throughout the bathroom. Proper drainage and a well-designed layout are crucial. If you live in an area with hard water, you may also get issues with limescale in the room as a result of water overflowing / splashing
- Wet rooms require the entire room to be waterproofed to prevent moisture from seeping into the walls and floor
- Temperature - it gets colder faster in a larger, open space, so you need to consider how to keep the room warmer
- Installation is more complex with a wet room, involving waterproofing, sloping the floor, and proper drainage
- Shower head size (and related water consumption) is generally larger for a wet room for design purposes, which is not the most efficient choice
FAQs
What considerations should be taken into account for those who value privacy and containment in their shower space?
For individuals who prioritize privacy and containment in their shower space, several considerations should be taken into account. Opting for an enclosed shower with glass or plastic doors provides a designated and private bathing area. Choosing doors with frosted, fluted or patterned glass enhances privacy while still allowing light. Assessing the layout to prevent water splashing beyond the enclosure ensures a contained and dry environment. Additionally, selecting shower heads and fixtures that minimize water splashing helps maintain a more private and comfortable shower space for those who value containment and privacy.
What strategies or design features can help minimize water splashing in a wet room, ensuring a cleaner and more comfortable bathroom environment?
To minimize water splashing in a wet room, ensuring a cleaner and more comfortable bathroom environment involves strategic design features. Proper drainage and a well–designed layout are critical to managing water effectively. Installing a fixed or hinged glass screen can help contain water, preventing it from splashing beyond the designated wet area. Selecting a shower head with lower water dispersion and strategically placing it to minimize splashing further contributes to a cleaner and more comfortable wet room. Adequate floor sloping towards the drain is essential, ensuring efficient water flow and preventing pooling. These design strategies work cohesively to enhance the functionality and cleanliness of a wet room.
What heating options or design considerations can be implemented to maintain a comfortable temperature in a wet room, especially in colder climates or during colder seasons?
Maintaining a comfortable temperature in a wet room, particularly in colder climates or seasons, involves thoughtful heating options and design considerations. Incorporating underfloor heating provides an efficient way to distribute warmth evenly across the space. Installing a towel warmer or a heated towel rail not only adds comfort but also helps dry the room. Selecting a powerful but energy–efficient extractor fan aids in removing excess moisture, contributing to a more comfortable environment. Additionally, ensuring adequate insulation and choosing moisture–resistant materials for walls and floors are crucial design elements that help retain heat and create a cozy atmosphere in a wet room during colder periods.
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