Wet Room Vs Walk-In Shower

Last Updated on November 21, 2023

Wet Room Vs Walk-In Shower

Disclaimer* Please note that some of this page’s links are affiliate links. Meaning if you click on them, we receive a small commission.

A multifunctional shower bath allows for hygienic convenience and a pleasurable bathing experience. Wet rooms are an alternative to the typical bathroom. If required, this essay examines restrooms in great detail.

Wet Room Vs Walk-In Shower Key Points

  • Installing a walk-in shower also has the benefit of being relatively inexpensive.
  • Because there are no doors, the walk-in shower is free of any limitations.
  • On the other hand, a walk-in shower cover may be required in tiny bathrooms.
  • Because of the lower profile of the shower tray and the usual glass screen, walk-in showers vary only slightly from standard wet rooms.
  • Instead of modifying the whole bathroom floor and waterproofing area, walk-in showers have a panel and a shower tray, saving money.
  • Walk-in showers are different from traditional shower enclosures.
  • Getting underfloor heating can help to keep the room warm.
  • Glass panels might not fit in small bathrooms, so that a wet room could be great.

How Are Wet Rooms Different From Shower Enclosures?

You don’t have to worry about stumbling in the wet room; unlike standard bathrooms, wetrooms have flat surfaces with little to no trip hazards, whereas shower walls can be high and distinct from the rest of the bathroom. People with disabilities or difficulties holding door knobs will appreciate that shower doors aren’t present. Installing a walk-in shower also has the benefit of being relatively inexpensive.

How To Choose A Walk-In Shower Or Wet Room?

You may find bathrooms of various sizes and forms at Big Bathroom Shop. There are two entrances on either side of the shower screens. The arms are attached to the walls and ceilings of the building. Since it fits any bathroom corner, you may use classic shower enclosures instead of the corner. Different coloured glass screens are available with the model, including black and white.

What Is A Walk-In Shower?

The walk-in shower is a vast and opulent option, making it simple. Shower trays are typically large, with plenty of bathroom space for rinsing and drying on both ends. Because there are no doors, the walk-in shower is free of any limitations. You may use moulded acrylic or stone resin tub trays to build walk-in showers. Glass has been made in the window to minimise splashing, and the shower tray is positioned on a low ledge around 30-40 cm above the wet room floor.

What Are Wet Rooms?

A full wet room is a shower with no shower curtain or tray. There is no limit to the amount of water or where it can go. A Walk-in shower cover may be required in smaller bathrooms. Wet room water draining quickly into a drainage hole is essential for wet flooring. Because of this, qualified individuals should only perform wet room installation.

Is A Walk-In Shower The Same As A Wet Room?

In wet rooms, the design is often open and airy. Because of the low-level shower tray and the usual glass screen, walk-in showers vary slightly from standard wet rooms.

Is A Walk-In Shower Cheaper Than A Wet Room?

Instead of modifying the whole flooring and only having to waterproof the shower area, walk-in showers can be cheaper than changing your entire bathroom into a wetroom. 

Does A Wet Room Or A Walk In Shower Have A Shower Screen

Walk-in showers have a shower screen that stops the water from going everywhere. In contrast, wet rooms do not have shower screens but have a slope built into the floor to control water drainage.

Picking The Best Option

When picking either a wet room or a walk-in shower, you must weigh a whole range of factors. Such as if you want a traditional shower enclosure, what type of shower floor, type of shower head, size of the bathroom, and whether you have a big or small bathroom. Many factors will affect your decision. You could get a true wet room or a standard shower enclosure.

Cost Of Wet Room Vs Walk-In Shower

The cost of a wet room installation is generally higher than that of a walk-in shower, as it involves more extensive waterproofing and drainage. However, the final cost can vary depending on factors such as the space size, the materials used, and the level of customisation.

Do You Need A Shower Tray For A Walk In Shower?

​A shower tray is not always necessary for a walk-in shower, as the floor can be sloped to allow water to drain properly. However, some people prefer to install a shower tray for easier maintenance and a neater appearance.

Wet Room Vs Walk-In Shower

A wet room and a walk-in shower are popular options for modernising a bathroom, but they differ.

A wet room is a fully waterproof bathroom, with the shower area integrated into the whole room. There is no tray or lip to step over, making it ideal for people with mobility issues. Wet rooms are usually more expensive to install as the entire room needs to be tanked or waterproofed, and special attention needs to be paid to the drainage and slope of the floor.

In contrast, a walk-in shower often includes a shower base or tray flush with the floor. Glass doors or screens enclose the shower area. Although walk-in showers are often less expensive to build than wet rooms, they nevertheless provide bathrooms with a contemporary and fashionable appeal.

The decision between a walk-in shower and a wet room ultimately comes down to personal preference, financial constraints, and the person’s or family’s unique requirements.

Disabled Wet Room Shower Screens

Disabled wet room shower screens are typically designed to be easy to access and use for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues. These screens may feature larger openings or doors, lower thresholds, and grab bars or support rails to help users maintain their balance while showering.

Some popular types of disabled wet room shower screens include:

  • Folding shower screens: These screens can be folded inwards or outwards, making them easier to access for individuals using mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers.
  • Curved shower screens: These screens may be curved or angled to provide a larger showering area while maintaining a compact footprint.
  • Fixed shower screens: These screens are typically designed to be used in conjunction with a shower tray or wet room floor and may feature larger openings or low thresholds to make them easier to use.
  • Sliding shower screens: These screens can slide open and closed, providing easy access while allowing maximum use of available space.

When selecting a disabled wet room shower screen, it’s important to consider factors such as accessibility, ease of use, and maintenance requirements—working with an experienced installer who can help you choose the right screen for your specific needs and budget.

How To Install A Wet Room Shower Screen

Here are the general steps for installing a wet room shower screen:

  • Measure the area: Measure the length and width of the shower area to determine the size of the shower screen needed.
  • Choose a screen: Select a wet room shower screen that fits the dimensions of the shower area and is designed for the needs of disabled individuals.
  • Prepare the area: Ensure that the area is clean, level, and free of debris or obstacles.
  • Mark the placement: Use a pencil and level to mark the placement of the shower screen on the floor and wall.
  • Drill holes: Use a drill to create holes in the wall and floor where the shower screen will be attached.
  • Install the screen: Insert the screws or bolts through the holes in the screen and into the wall and floor, securing the screen in place.
  • Seal the edges: Use a sealant to fill gaps between the screen and the wall or floor, ensuring the area is water-tight.
  • Test the screen: Run water in the shower to ensure that the screen is properly installed and there are no leaks.

It’s important to note that the specific steps for installing a wet room shower screen may vary depending on the manufacturer’s instructions and the specific needs of the installation. It’s recommended to consult a professional installer or follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a proper and safe installation.

Wet Room Vs Walk-In Shower FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions on Wet Room Vs Walk-In Shower. 

Which Is Better Walk-In Shower Or Wet Room?

An open-plan wet room’s glass screens are sufficient to divide the two types of areas, but in a walk-in shower, one or two low-level shower trays and one or two glass screens are required to accomplish the same goal.

Is A Walk-In Shower The Same As A Wet Room?

Low-level shower trays and glass screens separate walk-in showers from open-plan wet rooms, which feature glass screens to separate the different zones.

Is A Wet Room Cheaper Than A Shower Room?

The construction cost of a wet room vs a walk-in shower is higher. You may expect to spend anywhere from 20% to 30% more for a custom bathroom fitting than you would for a basic one.

Bathroom Helper » Walk-In Showers » Wet Room Vs Walk-In Shower

<a href="https://bathroomhelper.co.uk/author/jacob/" target="_self">Jacob Whitmore</a>

Jacob Whitmore

Jacob is a seasoned wordsmith with a passion for exploring and evaluating the world of mobility. Jacobs work has been providing insightful and well-researched reviews that help consumers make informed choices when it comes to their mobility needs.