When it comes to revamping a bathroom or designing a new one, many homeowners struggle with the choice between opting for a wetroom or sticking with a traditional bathroom setup. Each type has its own distinct features and advantages as well as some drawbacks that can affect how practical or pleasing your space is. This piece will compare wetrooms and traditional bathrooms so that you can identify which option fits your needs best.
What is a Wetroom?
Overview and Layout
A wetroom is essentially a bathroom that can handle water easily. It typically features a shower area that doesn’t have any sort of tray or door. It’s built to allow water to flow right into the space, blurring the lines between the shower and the rest of the room. Key features of wetrooms include:
- Drains Built Into the Floor: Wetrooms have specially designed floors that slope downward toward a central drain to avoid water pooling.
- Waterproof Components: The floor and walls get water-resistant treatments to guard against any moisture-related damage.
- Sleek and Modern Appearance: Wetrooms generally focus on a clean, contemporary look with wide-open areas.
Pros of Wetrooms
- Makes Small Spaces Feel Bigger: Because of their open flow, wetrooms can give the impression of a larger area in tighter spaces.
- Easy Access: This setup is excellent for those with mobility challenges since there’s nothing blocking the shower space.
- Design Freedom: You can customize wetrooms with different tiles, fixtures, or finishes, allowing for personal style preferences.
Cons of Wetrooms
- Higher Installation Costs: Getting a wetroom ready can be pricier upfront because it requires proper waterproofing and drainage mechanisms.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Keeping a wetroom well-maintained might mean more work, particularly in terms of preventing mold or mildew.
- Cooler Temperatures: Without partitioning, wetrooms can feel a bit chilly compared to traditional bathrooms.
Delving into Traditional Bathrooms
Overview and Layout
In contrast, traditional bathrooms feature separate sections dedicated for tasks like bathing, showering, and using the toilet. Key components of these bathrooms usually include:
- Separate Bathtubs and Showers: Most of the time, these areas are enclosed by glass doors or curtains.
- Storage Options: Traditional bathrooms tend to have vanities or storage cabinets tucked away.
- Varied Design Choices: You can find traditional bathrooms done in different styles, from timeless classics to modern chic.
Pros of Traditional Bathrooms
- Clear Divisions: With separate areas for different functions, traditional bathrooms help maintain an organized space.
- Warmer Environment: Glass doors keep the shower area snug and warm.
- Better Storage Solutions: The presence of cabinets and vanities allows for more space to store items like toiletries and towels.
Cons of Traditional Bathrooms
- Feeling of Crampness: Smaller homes might feel even tighter due to the distinct areas that traditional setups create.
- Issues with Accessibility: Enclosed fixtures like shower doors may present hurdles for those with movement challenges.
- Regular Cleaning Required: Glass panels can accumulate soap scum or water stains and may need frequent cleaning.
Key Points to Think About When Choosing
Deciding whether to go with a wetroom or a traditional bathroom involves weighing specific factors:
- Available Space
- A wetroom might utilize space more wisely if you’re working with limited square footage.
- For those with more room, the confined approach of a traditional bathroom can work well.
- Budgeting
- The initial cost is important to factor in, as standard wetrooms might warrant more investment because of waterproofing.
- The price range for a traditional bathroom can vary greatly just based on the fixtures you pick.
- Family Concerns
- If your family includes small kids or elderly individuals, a wetroom can be more navigable for them.
- Conversely, traditional bathrooms can ensure a level of privacy that might be beneficial.
- Design Choices
- Those leaning toward modern, clean designs might prefer a wetroom.
- Traditional setups offer numerous design possibilities, allowing you to express your aesthetic style.
- Potential Resale Impact
- Depending on the area you’re located in, the right bathroom style might be more appealing to prospective buyers.
- Exploring what buyers in your locality prefer can help you figure out what’s more marketable.
Final Thoughts
In the end, whether you choose a wetroom or traditional bathroom comes down to your personal needs and what fits your lifestyle. While wetrooms boast modern looks and make the best out of available space, they do involve considerations about costs and upkeep. On the other hand, traditional bathrooms generate clearly defined areas to deal with day-to-day needs but can seem smaller in less spacious homes.
As you undertake your upcoming renovation or design project, consider consulting various sources for ideas and guidance. Whether you go for the trendy appeal of a wetroom or the comforting style of a traditional bathroom, knowing your options will enable you to make a smart choice that improves functionality and adds to the overall charm of your home.
