A wet room transforms a standard bathroom into a fully waterproofed, open-concept space where water drains directly into the floor. This design eliminates the need for a shower enclosure, making it an efficient option for small spaces and modern interiors.
This guide explains how wet rooms work, their benefits and drawbacks, costs, and installation tips. Whether you’re remodeling a compact en-suite or upgrading a larger bathroom, this breakdown will help you determine if a wet room suits your needs.
What is a Wet Room?
A wet room is a fully waterproofed bathroom where the shower area blends seamlessly with the rest of the space. Unlike traditional bathrooms that rely on shower trays or enclosures, a wet room features an open-plan design with a gently sloped floor directing water toward a drain.
This setup provides a practical solution for both small and large spaces, making it an attractive option for professional bathroom remodeling projects that focus on modern, space-efficient designs. Some wet rooms incorporate a freestanding tub, adding versatility without disrupting the open layout.
Materials play a critical role in the functionality of a wet room. Walls and floors are clad in non-porous materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or sealed natural stone tiles, which prevent water absorption and enhance durability. Glass panels can be added to reduce splashing while maintaining an airy feel.
Underfloor heating is another common feature, accelerating drying time and preventing moisture buildup. Proper ventilation, such as an extractor fan, helps control humidity and keeps the space fresh. With its efficient layout and moisture-resistant construction, a wet room offers a sleek, modern alternative to conventional bathrooms.
How Does a Wet Room Work?
A wet room relies on waterproofing, also known as tanking, to prevent water damage and ensure moisture does not seep into walls or flooring. Every surface, including floors and walls, is coated with a waterproof membrane before tiling.
This barrier creates a fully sealed, watertight enclosure, protecting the structure of the home from prolonged water exposure. In some installations, waterproof boards or liquid sealants are applied to reinforce the tanking layer and add extra durability.
Effective drainage is essential in a wet room. A slight gradient built into the floor channels water toward a central or linear drain, preventing water from pooling. The slope must be precise to ensure efficient water flow without disrupting the room’s accessibility. A professional shower remodeling contractor can assess the layout and ensure the correct gradient, preventing drainage issues that could lead to standing water or leaks.
While non-porous materials like porcelain and sealed stone tiles create a durable surface, additional elements support moisture control. Epoxy-based grout seals gaps between tiles, reducing the risk of water penetration.
Ventilation systems, such as extractor fans, help regulate humidity levels, preventing condensation and mold growth. Unlike traditional bathrooms, where water is confined to a designated area, wet rooms manage moisture through a combination of waterproofing, strategic drainage, and airflow management, ensuring a long-lasting and low-maintenance space.
Pros and Cons of a Wet Room Bathroom
Wet rooms offer a sleek, space-efficient alternative to traditional bathrooms, but they require careful planning to function properly. While their open-plan layout and waterproofing provide benefits in certain homes, poor design or installation can lead to practical challenges. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key advantages and disadvantages to help determine if a wet room is the right choice for your home
Pros of a Wet Room
✔ Maximizes Space in Small Bathrooms
Wet rooms eliminate bulky shower enclosures and bathtubs, freeing up space in compact bathrooms. In smaller homes, converting a traditional bathroom into a wet room can make the space feel larger and more functional.
✔ Improves Accessibility
With level flooring and no step-in shower trays, wet rooms provide easy access for individuals with mobility issues, wheelchair users, and elderly residents. Handrails and foldable shower seats can be incorporated for additional support.
✔ Easier to Clean and Maintain
Without shower doors, trays, or deep corners where mold and grime collect, wet rooms require less scrubbing. Large-format tiles with minimal grout lines make cleaning even simpler.
✔ Durable and Long-Lasting
Proper waterproofing (tanking) prevents water damage, extending the bathroom’s lifespan. High-quality tiles, sealants, and drainage systems make wet rooms more resistant to leaks than traditional bathrooms when installed correctly.
✔ Modern and Stylish Design
A minimalist aesthetic makes wet rooms popular in contemporary homes. Open layouts create a spa-like feel, and wet rooms can be customized with freestanding tubs, glass partitions, and high-end materials.
✔ Allows for Flexible Layouts
Wet rooms can accommodate a variety of designs, from completely open spaces to layouts that integrate a bathtub. In some cases, homeowners opt for a tub-to-shower conversion, replacing a bathtub with a sleek, waterproofed shower area. They even work well in irregularly shaped bathrooms where traditional fixtures may not fit.
✔ Increases Home Value (in Some Cases)
A well-executed wet room can increase a home’s appeal, particularly in modern or luxury properties. However, this depends on market demand and whether the home has other traditional bathrooms available.
Cons of a Wet Room
✖ Excess Water Exposure Can Be an Issue
Water can splash onto walls, fixtures, and even the toilet if not properly contained. Poor drainage can lead to puddles forming, especially in larger wet rooms without glass dividers.
✖ Slippery Flooring Risks
Wet floors increase the risk of slips and falls. Smooth tiles become hazardous when wet, making non-slip flooring (textured tiles, small-format mosaics) essential for safety.
✖ Requires High-Quality Drainage Design
A poorly constructed slope can cause water to flow in the wrong direction, leading to pooling or slow drainage. A slope that is too steep creates discomfort when standing, while an insufficient slope causes water stagnation.
✖ Humidity and Ventilation Concerns
Without proper ventilation, moisture buildup can lead to mold, condensation, and dampness on walls and ceilings. A strong extractor fan is essential for maintaining airflow and preventing long-term humidity issues.
✖ High Installation Costs
Converting a bathroom into a wet room requires tanking, drainage adjustments, and specialized tiling, which increases labor and material costs. While long-term maintenance is lower, the initial expense is higher than a standard shower installation.
✖ Potential Resale Challenges
Not all homebuyers prefer wet rooms. Families with young children may find them impractical, and some buyers prefer traditional bathrooms with separate shower enclosures. In homes with only one bathroom, installing a wet room could limit its appeal.
✖ Colder and Less Insulated Feel
The open design allows heat and steam to disperse quickly, making wet rooms feel colder than enclosed showers. Underfloor heating and heated towel rails help counteract this issue.
How Much Does a Wet Room Cost?
The cost of installing a wet room in the United States varies based on size, materials, labor, and additional features. On average, homeowners pay $13,000, with most installations falling between $6,000 and $20,000.
Several factors influence the final price:
- Waterproofing (Tanking): Sealing the entire space with a waterproof membrane is essential and costs between $1,500 and $5,000, depending on the size and complexity of the job.
- Permits: Depending on local regulations, permits for a bathroom remodel may be required. Plumbing, electrical, and structural changes often require approval before work begins. At Kitchen & More, we can help you navigate the permitting process and ensure compliance with building codes.
- Tile Selection: Ceramic and porcelain tiles are cost-effective at $3 to $10 per square foot, while natural stone or high-end materials like marble can exceed $30 per square foot.
- Labor Costs: Professional installation ranges from $70 to $150 per hour. More intricate layouts, custom drainage, or relocating plumbing will increase expenses.
- DIY vs. Professional Installation: While DIY tanking kits start around $1,000, improper installation can lead to leaks and long-term repair costs.
- Additional Features: Underfloor heating adds $1,500 to $5,000, while luxury fixtures like rainfall showerheads and frameless glass partitions increase overall expenses.
Smaller wet rooms with basic finishes stay closer to the $6,000 range, while larger, high-end designs with premium materials and features approach $20,000 or more.
Wet Room Installation Tips and Best Practices
A successful wet room installation depends on precision, material selection, and adherence to building regulations. Proper planning ensures the space remains leak-proof, durable, and functional without long-term maintenance issues.
1. Plan a Functional Floor Layout
A proper wet room floor plan separates wet and dry zones to control water movement. Positioning the shower opposite the entrance or along a side wall prevents water from reaching the doorway. In larger layouts, a glass partition can help contain splashes without disrupting the open design. Toilets and sinks should be placed at a higher elevation or slightly away from the direct spray zone.
2. Choose the Right Drainage System
A linear drain or center drain determines how efficiently water exits the space. Linear drains work well for large-format tiles and require only a single-direction slope. Center drains suit smaller tiles and require a four-way slope to direct water properly. The placement of the drain should align with natural water flow to prevent pooling.
3. Use Proper Wall and Floor Substrates
Traditional drywall absorbs moisture and deteriorates over time. Cement board or waterproof backer board provides a strong, moisture-resistant foundation for tiles. Floors require reinforced subflooring to prevent warping or movement under constant water exposure.
4. Seal All Joints and Transitions
Tanking alone isn’t enough—seams, edges, and pipe penetrations must be sealed using specialized waterproof tape or epoxy-based sealants. Overlapping waterproof layers at junctions between walls and floors ensures long-term leak protection.
5. Consider Tile Size and Grout Type
Large-format tiles reduce the number of grout lines, minimizing water penetration risks. Small mosaic tiles create better traction but require more grout maintenance. Epoxy grout resists moisture and staining better than traditional cement-based grout.
6. Plan for Accessibility Features
If the wet room is designed for aging in place or mobility needs, adding a low-threshold entry, grab bars, and a foldable shower seat increases safety without compromising design. Anti-slip coatings or textured tile finishes further improve stability.
Wet Room vs. Traditional Bathroom: Which is Right for You?
Both wet rooms and traditional bathrooms offer distinct advantages depending on space, lifestyle, and functionality. A wet room creates a fully waterproofed, open-plan layout where the shower seamlessly integrates into the space. A traditional bathroom uses enclosures or bathtubs to keep wet and dry areas separate. Choosing between the two depends on practical needs, cost, and long-term usability.
A wet room works best in compact spaces, where eliminating a shower tray or enclosure maximizes floor area. Smaller homes, apartments, and en-suite bathrooms benefit from the efficient, barrier-free layout.
- Accessibility improves with a step-free design, making wet rooms a great option for elderly users or individuals with mobility challenges.
- Waterproofing enhances durability, preventing long-term moisture damage in well-sealed installations.
- Modern aesthetics make wet rooms ideal for contemporary, minimalist homes, offering a sleek and open feel.
A traditional bathroom is better suited for family homes, where a bathtub or enclosed shower provides practical advantages.
- Water containment is easier with shower doors or partitions, keeping nearby fixtures and towels dry.
- Lower installation costs make traditional bathrooms more budget-friendly, as they do not require full-room waterproofing.
- Resale appeal remains higher in some markets, especially in homes with only one bathroom, where buyers may prefer a conventional setup.
For homeowners with larger spaces, a hybrid approach—integrating wet room elements into a traditional bathroom—can provide the best of both worlds.
Start Your Wet Room Project Today
Thinking about a bathroom remodel? A wet room offers a modern, efficient layout that maximizes space and simplifies maintenance. At Kitchen & More, we design wet rooms that fit different bathroom sizes, accessibility needs, and personal preferences. Whether you’re converting an existing space or adding wet room features, our team ensures a seamless installation process.Have questions or need design inspiration? Contact us today to discuss your project and explore our Pinterest board and YouTube channel for real-life transformations, layout ideas, and expert tips. Let’s build a bathroom that works for your home!
