What is a Wet Room System? Your Guide to Choosing the Right Solution

A wet room system is the complete set of components used to create a fully waterproof and drainable space without the need for a raised shower tray. It includes a wet room shower base system, waterproofing membranes, an efficient drainage system (often linear or integrated), and in many cases, a compatible tileable surface.

This kind of system provides a seamless, walk-in bathroom design that perfectly suits the aesthetic of a luxury living space. It’s ideal for accessible living spaces and presents a modern look which separates the space aesthetically from your average bathroom.

Why is it important to get the right wet room system?

We understand the challenges of luxury residential development, including balancing tight timelines, premium materials, and exacting client expectations. Every element demands care and precision to avoid complications further down the line. That’s especially true in high-spec spaces like bathrooms, and wet rooms, where waterproofing and drainage systems must perform perfectly.

Designing a luxurious and functional wet room starts with a solid foundation, and that means choosing the right wet room system. But what exactly does that involve? And how do you specify the best one for your project?

In this guide, we’ll walk through what a wet room system is, what it includes, and what to consider when choosing one for a high-end residential or commercial development.

What’s Included in a Wet Room System?

The key elements typically include:

• Wet room trays or shower bases – Pre-formed sloped trays that direct water towards the drain. These come in various sizes and are designed to suit concrete floors or wooden floors alike.
• Waterproofing membrane – Essential for creating a waterproof surface and protecting the structure beneath.
• Drainage system – Often linear drains, with options like square or centre drains, depending on your aesthetic and functional goals.
• Drain positions – Systems can be selected based on required drain positioning, whether central or offset.

Wet Room Kits vs. Complete Systems

It’s important to distinguish between wet room kits and full wet room systems. Kits may include only the basics (tray, drain, and waterproofing), while complete systems often come tailored for your project and floor type, including guidance on efficient drainage system configurations and compatibility with underfloor heating.

If you’re specifying for a luxury development, it’s best to choose a complete, high-performance system that simplifies installation and reduces risk.

Choosing the Right Wet Room System

When specifying a wet room shower area, consider:

• Floor construction / Finish – Is it timber, concrete finished with tiles, vinyl or a floored substrate? This affects which tray and waterproofing system you’ll need.
• Aesthetic goals – Minimalist linear drainage or a sleek tile insert finish?
• Accessibility – A level-access walk-in shower tray system may be essential in certain settings.
• Drain flow rate and position – Select a system with the right capacity and orientation for the space.
• Size – Wet room trays are available in multiple dimensions, including 900 x 900mm and other common formats to suit your layout.

The WM Approach

At WM | Wetroom Materials, we supply wet room systems and wet room kits trusted by leading architects and developers. From wetroom shower trays, square drains, vinyl drains with clamping mechanisms to create a watertight seal, tanking kits and more. We have all of the elements required to create a truly stunning wet room. 

Our wet room kits have been installed in luxury hotels, home and apartment development projects for over 20 years. Our products are tested to the highest European standards, designed for both beauty and performance, and supported by expert technical advice from specification to installation.

Whether you’re designing for natural stone, large-format porcelain, or slip-resistant vinyl, micro cement or resin, we can guide you to the right solution, including shower tray kits and drainage options for every type of floor.

Let’s Get Your Project Started

Speak to our team to find the best system for your next project. Our clients appreciate our ability to create custom solutions that are suited to their exact requirements. So if you are interested in a standard or custom solution, get in contact today to see how we can help.