Double Walk-in Shower vs. Wet Rooms: How to Know What Is Right for You
Photo from Unsplash
Originally Posted On: https://ebberns.co.uk/tips-guidance/double-walk-in-shower-vs-wet-rooms-how-to-know-what-is-right-for-you/
Double Walk-in Shower vs. Wet Rooms: How to Know What Is Right for You
Tiles, fittings, colour scheme and lighting. These are usually a few elements homeowners should consider when renovating a bathroom. However, the new layout is as important and required before delving into the details.
A renovation provides the perfect opportunity to tailor your bathroom to your needs. This might involve increasing comfort and safety and improving energy efficiency. These are factors that can also add to your home’s value.
Your shower choice can help achieve this, especially if you’re considering a double walk-in shower or a wet room.
If you’re still undecided, this article provides a comprehensive guide on both designs. Knowing their differences can help you decide which is best for your home.
A Double Walk-in Shower Vs. a Wet Room
The double walk-in shower and wet room have become popular additions to many modern bathroom designs. Spacious, stylish, and accessible are a few characteristics both have in common.
Glass is often used in both designs and helps open the space while letting light in. They also facilitate vast customisation options. You can create a personal spa-like haven to perfectly suit your needs and taste.
However, there are subtle differences between the two that you should be aware of.
The Double Walk-in Shower
Walk-in showers don’t have doors or curtains. Layouts can include three solid walls or glass panels with an open space for entry. Even a single glass can partition the shower from the rest of the bathroom.
They also have low-profile shower trays. This eliminates the need to step up or climb in, as in traditional showers or baths.
A walk-in shower has a single showerhead positioned on the wall or overhead. Double walk-in showers have two.
They’re often side by side with ample space for two persons to shower comfortably. The showerheads can also be placed on opposite ends of the shower area.
The Wet Room
Walls are optional when building a wet room. The layout is either completely open or includes a single glass partition.
Wet rooms are floor-level and flat with water flowing to a drain in the floor of the room. The design transforms the bathroom into a large, waterproofed, completely open area.
Double Walk-In Shower vs. Wet Room Installation
Growing families and placing greater importance on self-care may inspire your bathroom renovation. A walk-in shower or wet room can facilitate this.
Installing a double walk-in shower requires more space than a typical standard shower. This ensures there is enough room for two people to shower comfortably.
Although you can have a wet room in a small space, a larger area allows for more design options. However, even the installation of a small wet room can be extensive.
It often requires more materials and labour. It also involves more prepping and waterproofing than a double walk-in shower.
Double Walk-in Shower vs. Wet Room Cost
Bathrooms were one of the top four rooms homeowners renovated last year. It was also one of the top three rooms they would spend the most money renovating if money wasn’t an issue.
However, your budget will more than likely determine your design choices. How much will you want to spend on a wet room or double walk-in shower?
The installation of a wet room is more expensive than a double walk-in shower. It requires more materials, labour and preparation. This includes floor removal and the installation of drainage systems and waterproofing membranes.
A double walk-in shower will require a low-profile shower tray and waterproof membrane. Installation may also involve some additional plumbing work.
The costs for both will vary depending on the size and design. The installation of a double walk-in closet can cost between £1,000 to £5,000 versus £5,000 to £12,000 for a wet room.
Double Walk-in Shower vs. Wet Room Maintenance
Bathroom renovations can be a substantial investment. However, it pays for itself as it can increase the value of your home.
Maintenance plays a crucial role. It can help your double walk-in shower or wet room continue to look newly installed. It will also ensure that both function as they should.
The work entailed in double walk-in shower vs. wet room cleaning may surprise you. It may even sway your decision on which you install in your bathroom.
Experts recommend cleaning a wet room weekly to prevent the build-up of grime and mould. It begins with removing excess water on the floor before cleaning.
You’ll also need to use appropriate cleaning agents. The frequency should increase based on the amount of usage.
Cleaning a double walk-in shower often becomes a part of the daily shower routine. Cleaning after each use can prevent limescale buildup on glass and other surfaces. It should involve the use of only mild cleaning products.
Double Walk-in Shower vs. Wet Room Pros and Cons
It’s important to consider the pros and cons of each option before making a decision. Many may already be evident based on the information above.
A double-walk-in shower is spacious and stylish, allowing a range of design options. This includes bench seating, rainfall showerheads and a few other classy additions.
It provides easy access and facilitates greater mobility. You can also add safety features.
However, there is a greater slip risk, and despite being spacious, the design isn’t as open as a wet room. If it includes glass panels, cleaning will be more frequent.
Wet rooms have an open design that creates more space and allows light to flow through the room. They’re also easy to clean and maintain.
Wet room installations are extensive. You’ll need to waterproof your entire bathroom. More materials and labour also make installation more expensive.
The open design of both makes temperature control more challenging. It also limits privacy.
The Best Option for You
A bathroom renovation provides a chance to upgrade to a more luxurious design. This can include opting for a double walk-in shower or wet room. Both can transform a seemingly ordinary bathroom into a more modern, spacious and versatile space.
Your lifestyle, budget and taste will determine which is the best option for you. Ebberns can help you achieve the best design with high-quality, classy fixtures and fittings. We’re ready to get you started! Book a design appointment today!