Astrid Madsen
In an era where functionality intertwines seamlessly with design, wetrooms have emerged as a trendy and pragmatic solution in home design. But what goes into creating one? Let’s dive into understanding the what, how, and crucially, the cost of installing a wetroom.
Demystifying Wetrooms
What Exactly Is a Wetroom?
A wetroom is, essentially, a shower room that does away with the shower enclosure, offering a fully waterproofed open shower area. It’s not only a sleek and modern addition to your home but is also wonderfully practical, particularly for wheelchair users.
Unpacking the Wetroom Construction
Components and Build
Constructing a wetroom involves several components: a shower tray former, tanking materials, drainage parts, possibly underfloor heating, the shower itself, screening, tiles, and, of course, labour. Ensuring each element is meticulously installed guarantees longevity and durability in your wetroom.
Waterproofing 101
Waterproofing (or tanking) is the process of ensuring that both the walls and floor of the wetroom are sealed to prevent any water damage. The walls, floor, and about half a meter beyond the shower area should be carefully waterproofed and tiled to create a secure, easily cleanable shower area.
Digging into Costs
General Cost Overview
Creating a wetroom isn’t a modest investment. Installing a 2m x 2m wetroom, for instance, can cost approximately €5,000, inclusive of tiling. Starting from scratch, this kind of shower setup could be about 20% pricier than a conventional high-quality shower tray.
Specific Cost Elements
- Drain and Preformed Tray: The drain alone may cost in the low hundreds, and with the preformed tray tanking kit, you may need to budget over €1,000.
- Waterproofing: This process could demand around €/£30-40 per sqm installed.
Wetroom Benefits and Practicalities
Splash and Space Management
Considering the open nature of wetrooms, it’s vital to consider splash management. How far might water travel during a shower? Keeping towels, toilet paper, and other items dry is crucial. Think about splash shields or screens to protect other bathroom areas and surfaces from water and soap splashes.
Futureproof and Accessible Design
If the wetroom is designed spaciously, it becomes a convenient and accessible space for wheelchair users. Thinking ahead, you might consider installing grab rails, ensuring shower controls are accessible, and ensuring that all structures are sturdy and can bear significant weight.
Weighing Your Options
Embarking on a wetroom installation project is both a financial and practical commitment. While the upfront costs might seem steep, the long-term benefits of having a stylish and accessible shower space can add substantial value and convenience to your home.
