When designing an accessible bathroom, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing between a level access shower tray and a wet room. At Aquadapt, we understand that making the right choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and property constraints. This guide will help you understand the key differences between these two excellent accessible showering options.
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Understanding the Basics
What is a Level Access Shower Tray?
A level access shower tray is a specially designed shower base that sits flush with your bathroom floor, creating a seamless, step-free entry. The tray itself is recessed into the floor structure, eliminating any trip hazards while providing a dedicated area for water containment. Typically, these shower areas include screens or doors to help manage water spray.
What is a Wet Room?
A wet room is a fully waterproofed bathroom where the shower area integrates completely with the rest of the room. The entire floor is subtly sloped toward a drain, eliminating the need for a traditional shower tray. Wet rooms can be completely open or partially screened, offering maximum accessibility and a contemporary aesthetic.
Cost Considerations
While wet rooms were traditionally more expensive than level access trays, advancements in materials and installation techniques means that today, both options represent similar investments, with costs varying based on:
- Size of the area
- Choice of materials (tiles, vinyl, etc.)
- Existing bathroom configuration
- Additional features (screens, seating, etc.)
This comparable pricing means your decision can focus more on functionality and aesthetics rather than budget constraints.
Advantages of Wet Rooms
Enhanced Aesthetics
Wet rooms offer a sleek, minimalist appearance that many find visually appealing. The absence of a visible tray creates a seamless look, as the former (the structure that creates the gradient for water drainage) sits hidden beneath your chosen flooring. This integrated design contributes to a more spacious feel and contemporary aesthetic.
Truly Open Space
Without the defined boundaries of a shower tray, wet rooms provide an uninterrupted floor space that maximises accessibility. This open design is particularly beneficial for wheelchair users or those who require caregiver assistance, as it eliminates any defined barriers between the shower area and the rest of the bathroom.
Flooring Flexibility
Wet rooms can be finished with either:
- Tiled floors: Offering endless design possibilities with various colours, patterns, and textures.
- Special vinyl flooring: Heat-sealed around edges and corners, extending up the walls to create a waterproof environment.
This versatility allows you to create a look that complements your overall bathroom design while maintaining full functionality.
Zero Threshold
The completely flat floor of a wet room provides the ultimate in accessibility, with absolutely no lips or edges to navigate. This feature makes wet rooms the gold standard for universal design and ongoing independence considerations.
Advantages of Level Access Shower Trays
Superior Water Containment
The defined area of a level access shower tray keeps water exactly where it belongs. The tray’s subtle edges and dedicated drainage system minimise the risk of it spreading throughout your bathroom, reducing potential slip hazards and water damage concerns.
Easy Installation of Fixtures
The clearly defined shower area makes it straightforward to add fixed screens, grab bars, or other accessibility fixtures. These additions can be securely attached around the tray’s edges, providing stability without requiring extensive bathroom modifications.
Simplified Waterproofing
Unlike wet rooms, which require full room waterproofing, level access trays only need sealing around the immediate shower area. This means there’s no need for extensive vinyl application up walls, simplifying both installation and future maintenance.
Long-Term Reliability
Level access shower trays typically provide more durable waterproofing solutions compared to wet rooms. Without heat-sealed vinyl that might deteriorate over time, these systems generally offer more reliable long-term performance and peace of mind.
Less Disruption During Installation
One significant practical advantage of level access shower trays is the ability to install them with minimal disruption to the rest of your bathroom. They can often replace an existing bath or shower enclosure without requiring a complete bathroom renovation, saving time, money, and inconvenience during installation.
Making Your Decision
When choosing between these options, several key factors should guide your decision-making process.
Property considerations play a crucial role in determining which solution is most suitable for your home. The construction and height limitations of your floor will influence installation possibilities, while your existing plumbing configuration may favour one option over the other. The overall size of your bathroom will also impact how each solution integrates with your space and affects the room’s functionality.
Personal needs are equally important in making the right choice. Consider the level of mobility assistance you currently require, as well as any anticipated future needs. Think about whether you prefer the enclosed feeling of a defined shower area or the open, barrier-free experience of a wet room. Planning for long-term accessibility needs ensures your investment will continue to serve you well as circumstances change.
Practical considerations shouldn’t be overlooked when making your final decision. If water splashing and containment are concerns, this may influence your choice. Consider your preferred installation timeline and how much disruption you can accommodate during the renovation process. Finally, think about your maintenance preferences and which solution aligns better with your lifestyle and upkeep capabilities.
The Aquadapt Approach
At Aquadapt, we believe there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for accessible bathrooms. Our experienced team works closely with healthcare professionals and clients to assess individual needs and property requirements before recommending either a level access shower tray or wet room installation.
Our highly experienced team offer comprehensive consultations to evaluate the bathroom layout, discuss all mobility needs, present clear layout options, provide transparent pricing, and create custom solutions that blend accessibility with contemporary design.
Conclusion
Both level access shower trays and wet rooms provide excellent accessible showering solutions with similar cost implications. Wet rooms offer aesthetic advantages and completely barrier-free design, while level access shower trays provide practical benefits including better water containment, easier installation, and minimal disruption to your existing bathroom.
The best choice depends on your specific circumstances, preferences, and property constraints. Whether you prioritise the elegant, integrated look of a wet room or the practical functionality of a level access shower tray, Aquadapt can help you create an accessible bathroom solution that enhances your independence, dignity and quality of life.
Contact our team today to discuss which option might be best suited to your unique needs and to schedule your personalised consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much more expensive is a wet room compared to a level access shower tray?
A: Today, costs are comparable. Wet rooms used to be pricier, but modern materials and methods have narrowed the gap. Final cost depends on size, materials, and features.
Q: Which option is better for wheelchair accessibility?
A: Wet rooms offer more open space and easier manoeuvring. Level access trays still provide step-free entry but with subtle edges. Choose based on your mobility needs and space preferences.
Q: Will a wet room cause water to spread throughout my entire bathroom?
A: No, wet rooms are designed with sloped floors and central drains. Proper installation prevents water spread. For added containment, a level access tray may offer more peace of mind.
Q: Can I install either option without completely renovating my bathroom?
A: Level access trays usually require less renovation and can replace existing fixtures. Wet rooms need full waterproofing and floor grading, making them more complex to install.
Q: Which is easier to clean?
A: Wet rooms have fewer edges, making them simpler overall but require cleaning the whole area. Level access trays concentrate mess in one area, potentially making cleaning quicker.
Q: Can I add grab bars and other features?
A: Yes, both support accessibility features. Trays offer clear attachment points; wet rooms may need extra wall reinforcement. Both can be customised with seating and hand showers.
