Wet Room Planning & Waterproofing Essentials: Design, Products & Expert Advice
Wet rooms have become one of the most desirable bathroom upgrades in modern homes. Sleek, open plan, and practical, they’re the perfect way to create a luxury spa like feel while maximising space. But behind every beautiful wet room is careful planning and most importantly, the right waterproofing. Without it, even the most stunning design can lead to leaks, costly repairs and disappointment.
At Aquatec Bathrooms in Salisbury, we don’t just sell the products - you can experience a working wet room display in our showroom, featuring the stunning Axor overhead and hand shower system. It’s the ideal place to get inspiration, see how the products function in real life, and talk to our experts about what’s possible in your own home.
Here, we’ll cover the essentials of wet room planning, from waterproofing and drainage to layout and product choices, and explain how Aquatec can help you bring your vision to life.
Why Choose a Wet Room?
Wet rooms are more than a trend, they’re a long term investment in comfort and style. Some of the top benefits include:
- Maximising Space: Especially useful for small bathrooms, wet rooms remove bulky shower trays and create a sense of openness.
- Easy to Clean: With fewer nooks and crannies, wet rooms are quick to maintain.
- Accessibility: A barrier-free, level entry design makes them perfect for all ages and abilities.
- Luxury Feel: With the right fixtures, like Aquatec’s Axor shower range, you can recreate the indulgence of a high end spa at home.
Step One: Waterproofing & Tanking Systems
The most important part of wet room planning is something you won’t see once it’s finished, the waterproofing system. A fully tanked wet room ensures no water seeps into walls or floors, preventing mould, rot, or leaks into other rooms.
At Aquatec, we advise on:
- Tanking kits designed for wet rooms of any size.
- Waterproof wall panels or tile backer boards to protect surfaces.
- Sealing products for joints, corners, and transitions.
We only recommend tried and tested products that we know will stand the test of time, giving you peace of mind with your installation.
Step Two: Drainage & Flooring
A successful wet room requires clever drainage. The floor must slope subtly towards the drain, ensuring water flows away efficiently. The two most popular options are:
- Linear drains: Sleek, modern, and easy to maintain.
- Square drains: Compact and cost-effective.
Pairing drainage with the right flooring is key. Non-slip tiles, vinyl, or stone can all work beautifully. Aquatec Bathrooms' team can advise which finishes are most practical for your household, whether you’re creating a family friendly bathroom or a stylish master ensuite.
Step Three: Layout & Product Selection
Unlike a traditional bathroom, a wet room has fewer barriers, so layout planning is crucial to keep water where it’s meant to be. Positioning the shower away from the entrance and using smart glass panels can help contain spray while keeping the open feel.
At our showroom, you can test out the Axor working overhead and hand shower, a perfect example of how high-quality fixtures enhance both functionality and aesthetics. We’ll also guide you on choosing the right brassware, shower screens, and storage solutions that match your space and budget.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When planning your wet room, it’s easy to overlook the small details that make a big difference. Avoid:
- Insufficient waterproofing – never cut corners here.
- Poor drainage positioning – puddles are not part of the luxury feel.
- Ignoring ventilation – without it, condensation and mould can quickly build up.
- Cheap fixtures – investing in quality pays off in reliability and lifespan.
Aquatec Bathroom’s showroom displays and expert advice will help you sidestep these pitfalls and get your wet room right the first time.
Why Visit Aquatec for Your Wet Room?
Unlike online only suppliers, Aquatec Bathrooms gives you the chance to see, touch, and test products in person. Our working wet room display shows you exactly how premium products like Axor showers perform, while our staff can walk you through waterproofing kits, drainage solutions, and the best fixtures for your budget.
We’re not just a bathroom showroom, we’re also plumbing and heating merchants with years of experience supplying the local trade. That means our advice goes beyond design; we can help you understand what works with your plumbing system, which products are compatible, and how to future-proof your bathroom.
Final Thoughts: Plan Right, Enjoy for Years
A wet room is an investment in both style and functionality, but it only works when built on a foundation of solid waterproofing and smart design. With the right products and expert advice, you can enjoy a bathroom that feels indulgent, practical, and built to last.
At Aquatec Bathrooms in Salisbury, our showroom is the perfect place to start. Come and see our working wet room, experience the Axor shower system, and let our team guide you through every step of your project.
Visit our showroom today, or contact us to book advice on your wet room project.
