Would you like a wet bath for your Renton home? This may sound like a strange question—after all, don’t all bathrooms get wet anyway? However, a wet bath is a real, distinct concept. We’ll explain exactly what it is and why it might just be the perfect upgrade to your abode.
What Does a Wet Bath Mean?
A wet bath is an open-concept bathroom where there is no distinction between the shower and other parts of the room. No partitions separate the shower from the dry areas, and the bathtub is typically absent. While this may sound like a novel idea for the average Renton resident, it is standard for many countries outside the United States, especially in Asia and Europe.
Wet baths are also called wetrooms, and there’s a single reason for both monikers: the whole place can get wet after each use. The absence of a shower partition means that water can splash everywhere as the user washes up. Fortunately, a slight slope descending to the central drain keeps all that water from pooling and spilling to other parts of the house.
For that reason, wet baths are fully waterproofed. The walls and floor are completely sealed and tiled to keep moisture within the bathroom. Additionally, the ceiling has a protective membrane that protects the structure above from moisture damage and prevents water vapor from escaping into other parts of the building.
What Is The Difference Between A Wetroom And A Bathroom?
The key difference between a traditional bathroom and a wetroom is the layout. More specifically, it has a lot to do with the existence of a partition between the shower and the rest of the room, or the lack thereof.
Traditional or dry bathrooms typically have two distinctly separate areas. The first is a dry area that contains the vanity and storage, and practically everything else that should not be wet. The other is the shower, which is clearly separated from the dry floor space by a curtain or a glass partition and, often, a raised curb or notable elevation. Additionally, a bathtub is almost always present, making it the perfect option for families with small children.
In contrast to the traditional bathroom setup, wet baths merge everything in a single space. Entering the bathroom means walking straight to the shower. This layout is intended for small bathrooms and oddly shaped floor spaces, so wet baths usually don’t have a tub.
Where Are Wet Bathrooms Common?
The wet bath concept is designed for small spaces, so you might think it would be a familiar feature in small houses and apartments. Ironically, though, it is becoming more common in homes with large bathrooms. Large spaces work well with the open-concept layout, as it allows homeowners plenty of freedom to add improvements.
Luxury upgrades and smart systems are especially popular, offering features such as heated floors and voice controls. A well-made remodel can easily give a spacious wet bath a bespoke, spa-like atmosphere. When integrated with innovations such as advanced temperature controls and entertainment systems, the otherwise minimalist space transforms into the ultimate hub for relaxation and comfort.
Here’s a fun fact: before the wet bath became a home improvement hit, it was a common feature in RVs. These mobile homes have extremely limited space, so it makes sense to have a bathroom design that integrates everything in a single area. Wet baths are still the standard bathroom for most campers. After all, the alternatives are to pay for external facilities or simply go through the inconvenience of having no dedicated on-board bath.
What Is The Point of a Wet Bathroom?
Now, not everyone lives in an RV, so why would any stationary homeowner forego the convenience of a separate shower in favor of a wet bath? Wet bathrooms actually offer several advantages:
- Greater freedom of movement. The wet bath’s open-concept layout allows users to move more freely in a more spacious environment. This is especially helpful for people with mobility challenges. The absence of barriers, curbs, and enclosures adds to the accessibility and comfort.
- Versatile and flexible design. Wet baths offer many opportunities for customization and improvement. Luxurious remodels prove rather popular for this type of bath, but that’s just one option out of many. You can go purely functional or adopt a wild aesthetic—the possibilities are endless.
- Space-efficiency. As mentioned earlier, wet baths are primarily designed to be built in cramped, odd spaces. It is the best option for houses in bustling cities like Renton, where floor space is a premium and expansion is not quite possible.
Some Things to Consider
Before you wrap your head around the idea of getting a wet bath for your Renton home, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Wet bathrooms are expensive. Turning your dry bath into a wet one means sealing all the inner surfaces and installing waterproof fixtures and furnishings. Additionally, the construction can be complex, requiring the help of licensed professionals and materials specialized for damp environments. This could cost you between $6,000 and $20,000, which is much higher than a straightforward remodel.
- Water can get everywhere during use. The lack of a shower partition means that the water will splash all over the place during bath time. It may not be practical to bring things that need to stay dry—like smartphones—in the bathroom, as they may end up getting soaked. Furthermore, the floor can get completely wet easily, potentially turning it into a slip hazard.
- Possibly uncomfortable experience. Showers can feel cooler as the warmth escaping your body quickly disperses without the shower enclosure. Wet baths may also offer loud acoustics, which can amplify any and all noise, making bathing a less serene ritual. Privacy can also be an issue, as there is no dedicated changing area.
Would a Wet Bath Be Perfect for Your Renton Home?
Installing a wet bath can be an exciting option during a bathroom remodeling project, thanks to its sleek, minimalist design and practical benefits. Still, it often comes with higher construction costs and unique challenges to consider. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal style, budget, and overall priorities.
