How to Choose the Best Wet Room Flooring

Just embarking on a journey to adding a wet room into your home? Or maybe you have questions as to what are practical bathroom flooring solutions for your space. Well, the good news is we’ve compiled this article to help make your home transformation a little easier.

How are wet rooms different from traditional bathrooms?

Different to traditional bathrooms, wet rooms have to be entirely waterproof – as they don’t have the usual trays to contain water in one place. They offer a sleek, easy-to-clean and highly accessible alternative – allowing even wheelchair users to manoeuvre around effortlessly. 

However, choosing the right wet room flooring is crucial to maintaining both safety and functionality. It’s worth spending a bit of extra time getting it right. There are lots of options available from wet room vinyl flooring to wet room floor tiles so it is essential to consider the pros and cons of each. So, without further ado, let’s explore the key considerations for your home.

Considerations When Choosing Flooring

With lots of wet room flooring to pick from, it’s important to consider all the different impacts of each. We’ve made a list of things to think about when you choose the right one for you:

• Water Resistance: Since wet rooms are fully waterproofed spaces, the flooring must be 100% water-resistant to prevent damage and leaks.
• Slip Resistance: Non-slip flooring for wet rooms is essential, especially if you have physical disabilities.
• Durability: The flooring must withstand daily exposure to water, humidity and cleaning products.
• Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to clean and look after.
• Style: Does it fit with the aesthetic of your home and your preferred style?
• Installation: Will it require a specialist installer – and how complicated is it? This will impact the overall cost.
• Cost: Budget considerations are always an essential consideration.

Wet Room Flooring Types

There are plenty of options to pick from… let’s discuss them all:

Tile Flooring

Wet room floor tiles are a popular option for modern wet rooms, offering a sleek, undisturbed look. You can buy them in various materials such as ceramic, porcelain and natural stone – meaning there’s sure to be a style that suits your desired look.

The Pros:

• They’re waterproof 
• You can get tiles in so many colours, patterns, materials and textures to suit any style.
• They are long-lasting and can withstand heavy use, not wearing down with use.
• They’re easy to keep clean with a simple wipe.

The Cons:

• Some tiles, especially ceramic options, can be slippery. Consider hard stone options for a natural grip.
• A professional will have to install them to make sure they are efficiently waterproofed.
• Some materials are cold underfoot compared to other options.

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring offers an undisturbed look – without the grouted edges and lines of tiles. As well as having a sleek appearance it’s often cheaper as it’s provided on a continuous roll.

The Pros:

• As it is a single, continuous surface it prevents water from seeping through.
• You can find non-slip versions to make the floor suitable for all users.
• It normally offers a warm and comfortable step, perfect for post-shower walking.
• It usually is quicker and easier to install because they don’t require grouting, etc.
• It is easy to maintain and clean. 

The Cons:

• Some people prefer the more natural look of tiles and stone.
• Because it’s a thinner material, it can be torn or cut more easily.

Non-Slip Flooring

Safety should always be a priority and non-slip flooring for wet rooms is specifically designed to provide extra grip and stability.

The Pros:

• It reduces the risk of falls and accidents.
• It comes in various designs so you can achieve the aesthetic you want.
• It’s easy to clean and to look after.

The Cons:

• It may not offer the same luxurious aesthetic that some people want from their wet room, that tiles and stones can offer.

Microcement Flooring

Microcement, rather than being a put-down hard material is instead a coated finish that provides a modern, industrial-style look that’s also waterproof.

Pros:

• As it’s not a physical starting material like tiles, it offers a seamless finish.
• It can also be applied to walls for a sleek all-over look.
• It’s completely waterproof.
• There are lots of colours to pick from to suit your bathroom style.
• It’s long-lasting and stands up to everyday wear.

Cons:

• It may need a non-slip coating on top of it to make sure it’s completely safe and slip-resistant.

Wet Room Flooring Costs

This changes depending on the different materials, and how premium you want to go. For example, marble stone tiles will be considerably more expensive than a simple coloured ceramic tile. Typically, vinyl is cheaper than all tiles, while microcement and non-slip flooring is more similar to tile costs. 

Additional costs may include underfloor heating, waterproofing and professional fitting services. If you are considering a wet room for mobility reasons, Mobility Plus offers expert advice and installation services to ensure safety and ease of use.

How to choose flooring for your needs

Finding the perfect wet room flooring comes down to balancing budget, safety and style. If you are looking for an affordable, low-maintenance choice, wet room vinyl flooring is a solid bet. Love a high-end, timeless look? Wet room floor tiles deliver on style but may need a non-slip finish for safety. 

If preventing slips is your top priority, non-slip flooring for wet rooms is the way to go. Microcement flooring is a cement-based coating that ticks a lot of boxes. Think about what works best for your space and lifestyle. If you have further questions regarding wet rooms, we’d be happy to help, simply get in touch with our team. 

FAQs

1. What is the best type of flooring for a wet room?

The best flooring for a wet room is one that combines slip resistance, durability, and complete waterproofing. Popular options include vinyl flooring, safety flooring, tiles with anti-slip finishes, and resin floors. Vinyl and safety flooring are often preferred in accessibility-focused bathrooms because they provide excellent grip underfoot and a seamless, easy-to-clean surface. Tiles can offer a stylish finish, but it is important to choose textured or matte options to reduce the risk of slipping. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your needs, budget, and the level of safety required, particularly if the wet room is being designed for mobility support.

2. Is non-slip flooring essential in a wet room?

Non-slip flooring is essential in a wet room, as the entire space is regularly exposed to water. Without adequate slip resistance, the risk of falls increases significantly, particularly for older adults or those with limited mobility. Safety flooring is specifically designed to maintain grip even when wet, making it a popular choice for accessible bathrooms. Many modern options also balance safety with aesthetics, so you do not have to compromise on style. When selecting flooring, look for products with a high slip resistance rating and consider how they will perform over time, ensuring they remain effective with regular use and cleaning.

3. Can you use tiles for wet room flooring?

Yes, tiles can be used in wet rooms, but they must be chosen carefully. Porcelain or ceramic tiles with a textured or matte finish are best, as they provide better grip than polished surfaces. Smaller tiles or mosaic styles are often recommended because the additional grout lines help improve traction underfoot. However, tiles require precise installation to ensure proper drainage and waterproofing, including the use of a tanking system beneath the surface. It is also important to maintain grout lines to prevent mould or deterioration. While tiles can create a high-end look, they may not always be the safest option for users with significant mobility needs.

4. How do you ensure wet room flooring is waterproof?

Wet room flooring is made waterproof through a process known as tanking. This involves applying a waterproof membrane beneath the floor surface and often up the walls to create a sealed environment. The flooring material is then installed on top, with all joints and edges carefully sealed to prevent leaks. Proper installation is crucial, as even small gaps can lead to water damage over time. In addition, the floor must be correctly sloped towards a drain to ensure water flows away efficiently. Professional installation is strongly recommended to guarantee that the wet room remains fully watertight and performs reliably for years.

5. What is the safest wet room flooring for elderly or disabled users?

The safest wet room flooring for elderly or disabled users is typically specialist safety vinyl or non-slip flooring designed for high-moisture environments. These materials offer excellent grip, even when wet, and often have cushioned properties that can help reduce the impact of slips or falls. They are also seamless, which removes trip hazards and makes wheelchair access easier. In addition to safety, these floors are low maintenance and hygienic, making them ideal for everyday use. When choosing flooring, it is important to consider individual mobility needs and ensure the surface provides both comfort and confidence during use.