How Much is a Wet Room?
Are you considering a bathroom renovation? Wet rooms have become increasingly popular thanks to their accessibility, sleek appearance, and practical benefits. But one question remains at the forefront of many homeowners’ minds – just how much does a wet room cost?
Our comprehensive guide breaks down all the expenses involved in creating a wet room, from materials to installation, so you can create a suitable budget for your project.
What are the costs of a wet room?
A wet room is basically a waterproofed bathroom where the shower area is level with the rest of the floor.
Unlike traditional bathrooms with a bath or shower cubicle, wet rooms have open showering areas with drainage built into the floor.
How much a wet room costs depends on several key factors. Here’s an overview of the main ones that influence the price of a wet room.
Size
The size of your existing bathroom is key to determining the costs of installing a wet room.
If you have a large bathroom, you will need more materials, especially when it comes to waterproofing and tiling – and this can substantially increase your budget.
If you have a small bathroom (2-3 m²), installing a wet room will naturally cost less than installing one in a larger room (4m² or more).
Materials
When considering how much a wet room costs to install, you will need to think about what type and quality of materials, fixtures, and fittings you want to use.
For example:
- Waterproofing systems – These are durable waterproofing barriers that protect wet rooms and bathrooms from water damage. The cost of waterproofing will depend on the size, shape, and material of the waterproofing system you choose.
- Tiles and wall coverings – Basic ceramic tiles are the cheapest option. But if you want premium natural stone or porcelain tiles, these will be more expensive. You could also consider wallboards, which are quicker to install (and could save you money on labour costs.) Remember that the size of your bathroom, and whether you want to part tile or board or just do floor-to-ceiling boarding/tiling in the shower area, will also have an impact on the overall cost.
- Shower fixtures – If you’re on a budget, a basic shower system might be the best choice. If your aim is to create a luxury wet room, you might opt for a pricier premium rainfall shower.
- Drainage systems – Traditional square or circular drains are the cheapest option. These drains are placed at the centre of the wet room, directing water to a central point. If you want a sleeker look for your wet room, a more expensive linear drain allows water to be channelled along a longer area.
- Additional fixtures – you’ll also need to factor in the cost and type of toilet, sink, storage solutions, and accessibility fixtures.
Customisation
If you want to include bespoke elements like built-in seating, recessed shelving, underfloor heating, or specialised lighting in your wet room design, this will increase your wet room installation cost.
For example, if you choose a mirror with a demister, Bluetooth, speaker, sockets or sensor light, this will be more expensive than a standard bathroom mirror.
These features can transform a basic wet room into a luxurious space. So, although they seem pricey, they’re worth considering if your goal is to create an inviting bathroom space in your home.
Accessibility
If you have mobility problems, how much an accessible wet room costs will depend on a few additional considerations:
- Grab bars and rails
- Non-slip flooring
- Fold-down shower seats
- Wheelchair-accessible sinks
- Wider doorways (if needed)
What are the installation costs of a wet room?
Professional installation ensures proper waterproofing and drainage, which are absolutely critical to prevent leaks and water damage to your home.
The following factors are likely to impact the labour costs for your wet room installation:
- The complexity of the installation
- Whether structural modifications are needed to your existing bathroom
- The accessibility of your existing plumbing
Breakdown of wet room installation phases
Installing a wet room includes several phases, each with its own cost implications:
- Removing your existing bathroom fixtures
- Structural modifications (if required)
- Plumbing adjustments
- Installation of the tanking (waterproofing) system
- Installation of the shower tray and drainage system
- Tiling (depending on the size and complexity)
- Fixture installation
- Finishing touches
It’s wise to always obtain multiple detailed quotes from reputable tradespeople before proceeding with your project.
Should I install a wet room?
Now you have a better idea of what’s involved in installing a wet room, you might be wondering if it’s a worthwhile investment.
Here are some of the key benefits to consider when weighing up how much a wet room costs against its advantages:
- Improved accessibility. Level-access showering is ideal for people with mobility issues.
- Increased property value. Making accessible adaptations to your home (like installing a wet room) could increase the value of your home by 5-10%.
- Space optimisation. Wet rooms are great for small bathrooms where a traditional shower enclosure feels cramped.
- Easier to clean. There are fewer nooks and crannies for mould and mildew to develop.
- Modern aesthetic. Wet rooms help to create a contemporary, spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom.
- Flexibility. Wet rooms work well for multi-generational households.
- Longevity. Properly installed wet rooms can last decades with minimal maintenance.
- Waterproof. Installing a wet room reduces the risk of water damage when compared to traditional bathrooms.
- Customisable. Wet rooms can be designed to suit any style preference or theme.
- Future-proofing. Installing a wet room reduces the need for future renovations as you age.
Who benefits most from wet rooms?
Wet rooms are particularly beneficial for:
- Older people who want to continue living in their existing home
- People with mobility issues or disabilities
- Multi-generational families
- Homeowners with small bathrooms who want to maximise space
- Property developers who want to add a modern, desirable bathroom space
- Homeowners planning to sell in the medium term
Conclusion
How much a wet room costs varies significantly based on size, materials, labour, and your personal preferences.
For most installations, the benefits in terms of accessibility, safety, and home value make wet rooms an attractive option for many homeowners.
If you have mobility concerns or want to stay living in your existing home as you get older, the question isn’t just about wet room installation price but about the value of independence and safety in your home. You may also be eligible for Disabled Facilities Grants to help with the cost of installing your wet room.
By carefully planning your budget, selecting appropriate materials, and hiring qualified professionals, you can create a wet room that meets your needs.
The right professional will help you balance your budget constraints with your specific requirements to create a wet room that will serve you well for years to come.
BMAS offers a range of product warranties for added peace of mind, including a lifetime warranty on shower screen glass and trays, a 30-year warranty on wallboards, and a 10-year warranty on anti-slip flooring.