How Much Does a Wet Room Cost in London?

If you are wondering how much a wet room costs you have come to the right place. You need to know the average cost for the installation, which includes labour costs, completely waterproofing the space and buying everything you need for the shower area.

There’s a lot that can impact the total costs, such as the type of tiles that you choose and if you install heating mats. In fact, you might need to factor in the cost of abiding by building regulations. This is why it’s important to research the average cost of a wet room, and our guide is here to help.

Average Costs for a Wet Room in London

The average cost of a wet room in London is between £4,000 and £10,000, with most homeowners paying around £8,000. The average cost of a disabled wet room is around £5,000.

Costs Breakdown

Shower Enclosure & Components

The average cost for a shower enclosure and its components, such as a shower screen, ranges from £500 to £1,500, depending on the materials and design.

Shower Fixtures

Shower fixtures for a wet room – including shower heads, valves and controls – tend to cost between £200 and £800.

Flooring

Flooring for a wet room generally costs between £50 and £150 per square metre.

Waterproofing Materials

Waterproofing materials usually cost between £500 and £1,000 for a wet room.

Wall Coverings

Wall coverings, including tiles or waterproof panels, cost on average £20 to £80 per square metre.

Drainage System

The drainage system for a wet room usually costs between £300 and £800, depending on the complexity of the system needed.

Underfloor Heating

The cost of underfloor heating can vary from £60 and £185 per square metre, with the average cost being between £300 to £400 per wet room.

Ventilation

Installing a proper ventilation system to prevent moisture and mould can cost between £150 and £500.

Waterproof Lighting

Waterproof lighting suitable for wet rooms usually costs between £50 and £200 per light. The total cost will depend on the number and type of lights needed.

Factors Affecting Costs

There are a lot of factors that impact the cost of a wet room, all of which need to be budgeted for.

Size of the Wet Room

The size of the wet room is one of the biggest factors affecting the overall cost of a wet room. Larger wet rooms require more materials for flooring, walls and waterproofing, which increases the cost. Plus, a bigger space often means more labour is needed to complete the project, further increasing the cost.

The complexity of the plumbing and drainage systems can also rise with the size, as more extensive areas may need multiple drains or more intricate layouts.

Quality of Materials

The quality of materials that you choose will influence the cost of your wet room. Premium materials such as high end tiles, natural stone or custom glass enclosures are likely to cost a lot more than basic, standard options.

Opting for budget friendly materials can keep your costs down, but they might not provide the same quality of finish or longevity. When you are designing a wet room, balancing quality with your budget is key.

Labour Costs

Labour costs are a major component of the total cost of a wet room project. Skilled tradespeople – such as plumbers, electricians and tilers – charge for their expertise and time, with rates varying based on their experience, location and the complexity of the work. The scope of the project, including any custom work or complex designs, can require more time and specialised skills, further increasing the cost of labour.

Waterproofing Requirements

Waterproofing involves applying sealant to all surfaces in a wet room to prevent water leakage and damage. The extent and quality of waterproofing required depends on the wet room’s size and design, with more complex layouts needing additional materials and labour. It’s an important part of your budget, as waterproofing is a major factor in determining the longevity and functionality of the wet room.

Drainage System

Drainage prevents water pooling and it ensures a safe, functional wet room space. The complexity of the drainage system – including the number of drains, type of drainage (linear or and the need for additional plumbing – can increase the overall cost.

It’s important to remember that installing a high quality drainage system might be more expensive initially, but it can prevent future issues such as blockages or slow drainage further down the line.

Design Features

Custom tiling, storage and luxury fixtures can impact the cost of a wet room. Customised elements often require additional materials and labour, which you will need to factor into your budget. Choosing high end fixtures such as rainfall showerheads, underfloor heating or smart controls can also add to the cost.

Accessories and Extras

Things such as towel warmers, mirrors, lighting and decor can increase the overall cost of a wet room. Though these are often considered to be finishing touches, they do play a significant role in the functionality and ambiance of the space.

High quality or designer accessories can be costly, but they contribute to a luxurious feel. Of course, there are a lot of budget friendly options available, but they might not offer the same durability or visual appeal.

Types of Wet Room

Traditional Wet Room

A traditional wet room is a minimalist, fully waterproofed space where the shower area is level with the rest of the floor, creating a sleek and open plan design. This type of wet room often features simple and clean lines, and materials such as tiles or stone that can withstand constant exposure to water. The absence of shower trays and enclosures makes traditional wet rooms easy to clean and maintain, offering a modern and seamless look.

Family Wet Room

A family wet room is designed with practicality and durability in mind, making it ideal for family homes. These wet rooms often incorporate robust materials and non-resistant flooring to ensure safety for everyone, including young children.

They tend to be slightly larger to accommodate the needs of a growing family. There is an emphasis on functionality, with features such as dual shower heads catering to the needs of different family members.

Luxury Spa Wet Room

A luxury spa wet room transforms a regular bathroom into a relaxing retreat, offering an indulgent experience that’s similar to visiting a spa.

These wet rooms are outfitted with premium features such as rain showerheads, heated floors and water massage systems. There is a focus on using high quality materials like natural stone, marble and designer tiles, and mood lighting is often used to create a sense of luxury and relaxation.

Disabled Wet Room

A disabled wet room is specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals with mobility challenges, with accessibility, safety and comfort in mind.

These wet rooms tend to have wide entries to allow easy access for wheelchairs, and the floor is entirely level to reduce the risk of someone falling and hurting themselves.

Safety features such as grab rails, non-slip flooring and shower seats are standard in disabled wet rooms. Fixtures and controls are positioned at reachable heights, and adjustable shower heads accommodate various user preferences. The design focuses on both functionality, whilst also ensuring that users can maintain independence and comfort.

Compact Wet Room

A compact wet room makes the most of a small space, making it an excellent choice for smaller homes. These wet rooms are designed to fit all necessary bathroom functions into a confined area, without compromising on comfort or style.

They often use space saving fixtures such as wall mounted sinks and toilets, combined with smart storage solutions, to keep the area as uncluttered as possible. Despite their size, compact wet rooms can be highly functional and stylish, offering the benefits of a wet room but without the need for masses of space.

DIY Vs Hiring a Professional

When it comes to building a wet room, you have the choice of hiring a professional tradesman or tackling the project yourself. There are pros and cons of each, and the right route for you will depend on your budget and DIY abilities.

The Pros of a DIY Wet Room

• Cost Savings – Building a wet room yourself can save a significant amount of money on labour costs, as there’s no need to hire a professional tradesman.
• Project Control – When you handle a DIY project yourself, you have complete control over every aspect of the design and installation, allowing for full customisation to your preferences.
• Flexible Timing – When you build a wet room yourself, you can work on the project at your own pace without the need to coordinate schedules with a professional.

The Cons of a DIY Wet Room

• Skill and Knowledge Required – Building a wet room requires specialised knowledge and skills in waterproofing, plumbing and tiling. Unless you have the expertise, your workmanship could lead to mistakes.
• Time Consuming – DIY projects can take significantly longer to complete, especially if you’re learning as you go. This could lead you without a bathroom for longer than you intended.
• Risk of Poor Quality – Without professional experience, the final result might not be as high quality or durable as you would like them to be, leading to future repairs and higher costs.

The Pros of Hiring a Professional

• Expertise – Professional tradesmen have the necessary skills and experience to ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently, leaving you with a flawless wet room.
• Quality of Work – Hiring a professional tends to result in higher quality workmanship, which can enhance the durability and appearance of your wet room.
• Time Efficiency – Professionals can complete a wet room project faster than a DIY approach, reducing the time your bathroom is out of action.

The Cons of Hiring a Professional

• More Expensive – Hiring a professional tradesman can be expensive due to labour costs, especially if your wet room project is going to take a long time to complete.
• Less Personal Control – You may have less control over the finer details of the project when you hire a professional, as you’ll be relying on their judgement and expertise.
• Scheduling Issues – Coordinating with a professional’s schedule can sometimes delay the start or completion of the project, especially if they are sought after and have a lot of other customers.

Finding Someone to Build a Wet Room

There are various ways of finding someone to build a wet room. One way is to ask friends and family for recommendations, which could lead to you finding a trusted tradesperson who has already proven their skills and reliability.

You can also use online directories, such as The Page, which allows you to search for tradespeople based on specific criteria, such as those who are experienced in the specific type of wet room that you want.

The Page

At The Page, we streamline the process of finding the perfect tradesman for your wet room. When you send an enquiry, we match you with a curated list of tradesmen who are specifically suited to your job requirements.

Instead of navigating a whole host of various options, you have access to the perfect professionals for your project. Each tradesman at The Page has been personally met and vetted, with their previous work thoroughly assessed to ensure that they meet our high standards of quality and reliability.

This ensures that you receive professional, trustworthy and skilled tradesmen who are capable of delivering exceptional results for your wet room.

Benefits of a Wet Room

There are a lot of benefits of a wet room. The open plan layout of a wet room creates a spacious and contemporary feel, enhancing the visual appeal of the bathroom.

The design also makes cleaning easier, as there are fewer places where dirt and mould can accumulate. Plus, wet rooms are highly versatile and can be adapted to fit various spaces, including small bathrooms where maximising space is crucial. Wet rooms also provide excellent accessibility for people with mobility issues, as there are no steps or thresholds to navigate.

Installation Time

The installation time of a wet room can vary based on factors such as the room’s size, the complexity of the design and the condition of the existing space. On average, a straightforward wet room installation can take about one to two weeks. More complex designs will likely take slightly longer.

Will a Wet Room Add Value?

A wet room can add value to a property, as they are often seen as a luxurious and practical addition to a home. Wet rooms maximise the use of space, making even small bathrooms feel larger and more open.

They are particularly appealing in contemporary home designs and are liked for being easy to clean, accessibility and family-friendly. An expertly installed wet room can increase marketability and potentially boost the property’s resale value.