Wet rooms are the ideal interior trend for shower-lovers, being both stylish and high-functioning. Not only do they offer plenty of opportunity to get creative, but wet rooms are also designed to be 100% watertight and provide excellently efficient solutions for smaller bathrooms.
However, these moisture-rich spaces demand flooring that can not only withstand the challenges posed by water exposure, but also improve the overall bathroom aesthetic. Whether you’re envisioning the high-end look of a spa or simply aiming for minimal maintenance and maximum space-saving, your wet room flooring is a crucial decision.
From resilient tiles to innovative waterproof materials, our guide to the best flooring for wet rooms has you (and your bathroom) covered. We’re here to help you uncover the ideal wet room flooring that will not only withstand the test of time but also elevate your space to new luxurious heights.
Our concrete-effect tiles are ideal for wet room floor use, combining sleek style and practicality
How to choose the best wet room flooring
When it comes to choosing the best wet room flooring, there are a number of important factors to consider, including functionality, style, and durability.
Most importantly, you’re going to want to opt for a waterproof wet room flooring - after all, the last thing you want to experience is a leaky bathroom (excess moisture can weaken the structural base of your bathroom, resulting in significant damage, including the formation of mould and mildew).
Aside from waterproof qualities, you’ll also want to think about what your wet room flooring looks like, how easy it is to maintain, whether it’s slip-resistant, and how easy it is to install.
What is the best wet room flooring?
Tiles are a must-have for wet room flooring, with their inherent qualities making them an ideal solution for spaces that are prone to moisture - and you can have them on both the floor and the walls.
Five reasons why tiles make the best waterproof wet room flooring:
Water-resistance: porcelain tiles are inherently water-resistant, providing an impermeable barrier against moisture penetration.
Durability: tiles are renowned for their longevity and resilience, ensuring they withstand the test of time and repel the constant exposure to water.
Easy maintenance: thanks to their smooth, non-porous surfaces, which resist the growth of mould and mildew, porcelain tiles are super easy to clean. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping are typically all that’s needed to keep them looking pristine.
Variety of styles: tiles come in an extensive range of styles, colours, and finishes, allowing homeowners to achieve a bespoke aesthetic that complements their wet room design. Choose from sophisticated metro tiles to intricate patterned tiles.
Non-slip: many tile varieties offer textured surfaces that enhance traction, providing a safe and slip-resistant flooring option for wet areas.
Find out more about how to choose bathroom tiles.
Left: Onyx Natural Polished Porcelain, Right: Ibiza Bianco Honed Marble
Which are the best tiles for a wet room floor?
Overall, tiles present a great option for wet room flooring, being waterproof, low-maintenance, and durable. However, there are a number of different types of tiles to choose from – some of which are better-suited to wet rooms than others.
Some of the best tiles for wet room floors and walls, include:
Porcelain tiles: exceptionally durable and impermeable, porcelain tiles are ideal choices for wet areas. They also come in a variety of styles, mimicking natural materials like stone or wood.
Stone tiles: options like limestone, granite, or marble can bring a touch of luxury to a wet room. While stone tiles require proper sealing to enhance water-resistance, their timeless aesthetic appeal and durability make them popular choices for wet room flooring.
Mosaic tiles: these small, often glass or porcelain tiles, arranged in intricate patterns, not only add visual interest but also provide excellent slip resistance for wet rooms.
How to waterproof a wet room
We’ve emphasised the importance of a watertight wet room, but how can you ensure that a wet room tile installation is waterproof?
Choose water-resistant materials: opt for materials like stone or porcelain that are not easily affected by moisture.
Waterproof membrane: apply a high-quality waterproof membrane to all surfaces, including walls and floors. This will act as a protective barrier, preventing water from penetrating the underlying structure if there is a failure in the grouting down the line.
Seal joints and corners: pay special attention to joints, corners, and intersections where walls meet the floor. Use waterproofing tapes or bands to reinforce these vulnerable areas and create a seamless barrier against water ingress.
Seal pipes and drains: ensure pipes and drains are properly sealed with a flexible waterproof sealant to prevent potential leakage points.
Tile adhesive: use waterproof tile adhesive when installing tiles and a high quality grout that is recommended for wet room use.
Ensure proper plumbing: ensure all plumbing fixtures, pipes, and drains are correctly installed and well-sealed.
Exhaust fan installation: incorporate an exhaust fan into your wet room design to enhance air circulation and mitigate excess moisture. Proper ventilation helps to prevent buildup of humidity, reducing the risk of mould and mildew.
When it comes to choosing wet room flooring, one option rises above the rest: tiles. With an unrivalled ability to resist water, tiles serve as an impenetrable shield against moisture, as well as providing easy maintenance, ensuring longevity of the space, and coming in a vast array of styles.
Whether you go for the timeless elegance of natural stone or the durability of porcelain, tiles offer a versatile canvas to transform any bathroom into a magnificent wet room. If you’re feeling inspired, explore our selection of tile advice guides or browse our bathroom tiles to begin your tiling journey.
