A well designed wetroom will add a touch of luxury to every bathroom, and they are growing in popularity thanks to their low-maintenance and ability to add value. However, it is important to consider the design carefully, with factors such as wet room drainage and waterproofing essential in every wetroom. In this useful guide we take a look at wetroom drainage FAQS, with answers to all of our customers common questions.
What is a wetroom?
A wet room is a bathroom with a shower area that sits at the same level as the rest of the floor. In comparison to a traditional enclosed shower which relies on a shower tray, the floor of a wetroom is designed to tilt slightly towards a fast flow drain, within an area that is fully waterproofed.
What are the benefits of a wet room?
Wetrooms are very popular as they are easier to clean, great for small spaces, effective for those with mobility issues and they will add value to your home. The design of wetrooms tends to be modern and minimalistic in style, which results in a fresh and contemporary feel.
How do wetrooms work?
An overall wetroom design can be broken into 3 sections, the gradient, the drainage and the waterproofing. A consistent gradient within the floor is required to allow water to flow easily towards the drain, otherwise it can lead to water pooling, damp and mould. The drainage needs to be sufficient to support the flow of water from the shower, and the area needs to be waterproofed with an effective backer board and tanking kit. Many people also choose to install a glass splash screen which prevents water from splashing around the room, whilst also creating an illusion of space.
How is a wetroom waterproofed?
We have created a useful video which shows exactly how our AquaTank tanking kit can be used to create a fully waterproof surface ready for tiling. Click here to view.
Can a wetroom be installed on a wooden and concrete floor?
Yes, if you are installing a wetroom on a wooden floor, you may need to use boards to create a solid surface above floor joists. Alternatively, within a concrete floor you will need to ensure there is room for the drain and pipes, so the concrete may need to be chiselled out.
Can I install a wet room upstairs?
Yes, a wetroom can be installed within any floor of your home. However, depending on the surface of your floor you may need to remove floorboards or raise the rest of the floor, so that the shower tray and tiles sit flush with the rest of your flooring. The room itself will be fully waterproofed, so you will have no worries about potential leaks.
Can any bathroom be converted into a wetroom?
Yes, there is no constraint on the size of the shower area within a wetroom, so even small ensuites can be turned into wetrooms. However, if you are planning on installing a toilet and sink we recommend a room size of at least 1.5x1m.
What is tanking?
Tanking is the process of completely waterproofing the floor and walls within your wetroom. Sometimes an area of the room is waterproofed if a shower screen is being used, however without a screen and in smaller wet rooms the advice is usually to tank the whole room.
Can I install underfloor heating in a wetroom?
Yes, there are a variety of underfloor heating solutions which can be installed within a wetroom, including the Cocoon electric underfloor heating. This high-quality fibreglass mesh can be rolled out flat for a quick installation and it is completely safe for use in wet areas.
How do I stop water flowing across the bathroom with wetroom drainage?
The floor gradient and the drain will remove the water quickly from the floor of your bathroom; however, a shower screen can provide extra protection from water splashes around the room. There are a variety of wall hung and freestanding designs available to suit every wetroom design.
What options are available for my wetroom drainage?
The majority of wetroom trays are designed for use with a square or linear drain within the floor itself. Below the surface, it is possible to choose either horizontal or vertical drains, with vertical drains usually only installed where there is an obstruction below the floor surface for a horizontal waste pipe. We offer a wide range of high-quality Pestan Confluo drains, which are available to view here.
What tiles can I use in my wetroom?
With so many potential tiles available, it is possible to find tiles which suit every style and budget. Whether you opt for large format tiles or small mosaic tiles, wetrooms are a versatile design solution for those which are looking for a fully tiled shower area. It is important to choose a slip resistant tile for the floor area, and we recommend avoiding natural stone which will require ongoing maintenance. Take a look at the Navarro range of ceramic and porcelain tiles, which includes a variety of excellent options for bathrooms and wetrooms.
Why do I have an issue with wetroom drainage?
Usually, the fault of a poorly draining wetroom will be in the design itself, so it is important to invest in experienced contractors and high-quality products. For example, the floor should be designed to direct the flow of water towards the drain, which requires an even gradient of roughly 1.5-2%. In addition, the drain should be able to support the capacity of water produced by the shower. Poor quality drains and pipes could cost you more in the long run, especially if there is no removal trap to allow you to remove blockages easily.
Quantum Group NI – Wholesale suppliers of high-quality wetroom products
As a team, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, professional wetroom drainage and waterproofing solutions. The products shown on our website are available on a wholesale basis to stockists throughout the UK and Ireland, and our team are always on hand to assist with product advice. For more information about our products and the next day delivery service, please contact us today.