Bathrooms & Wet Rooms
Generally there are 3 main types of shower room suitable for the less mobile people amongst us and prioritise accessibility, safety and ease of use. Normally we would supply a new toilet and basin to go in your new shower room. The easiest shower room to use when mobility is an issue is a wet room, but there are also options for a level access shower room or low profile shower tray. Both wet rooms and level access shower rooms are able to be used by wheelchair users with or without assistance depending on the clients ability. All types can include wall mounted, fold down shower seats and grab rails. While there are similarities between all three, there are also key differences in terms of their design and features. Here’s an overview of each.
Our multi-trade fitters are not just professionals, they are specialists in creating accessible wet rooms and bathrooms that are not only safe and easy to use but they form part of your home. With a comprehensive skill set covering various trades, our team is dedicated to transforming spaces into accessible retreats that cater to the unique needs of individuals. You would have one fitter who carries out most of the work in your home, avoiding delays whilst waiting for numerous other trades. Your fitter would be supported by only 2 other trades – an electrician and specialist flooring contractor and we manage the whole project so it flows seamlessly.
We service locations throughout Suffolk, including Bury St Edmunds, Ipswich, Stowmarket & Woodbridge.
Wet Room
Essentially a wet room is an open plan shower area integrated into the bathroom area which is fully accessible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Key features of a wet room include:
- Wet rooms have a fully open design without any dedicated shower enclosures or trays. We fit a shower former (a type of tray that goes under the specialist flooring) and then the entire bathroom floor is waterproofed, allowing water to drain away uniformly.
- Wet rooms require comprehensive waterproofing measures, which can include tanking the floor and walls to prevent water seepage and damage. This involves installing a waterproof membrane and carefully sealing joints and corners.
- Wet rooms have a centrally located drain or multiple drains strategically placed to efficiently remove water from the entire bathroom space.
- We would always recommend a shower curtain as an absolute minimum to contain splashes from your body within the area covered by the shower former.
- Wet rooms offer maximum accessibility and flexibility in terms of shower design and layout. They can accommodate various shower configurations, such as walk-in showers, multiple showerheads, or even full-body shower panels.
- Grab rails and wall mounted fold down shower seats are normally fitted to make your showering experience more comfortable and safer.
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Low level shower
A low-level shower refers to a specific type of shower tray or base that is installed at a lower height compared to standard shower trays. It is also commonly known as a low-profile shower tray. Here are some key characteristics of a low-level shower.
- The height of a low-level shower tray is typically lower than traditional shower trays. It is designed to be more accessible, making it easier to step in and out of the shower. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals with limited mobility, the elderly, or those with disabilities.
- Similar to standard shower trays, low-level shower trays have built-in drainage systems to ensure efficient water removal. They are designed to slope gently toward the drain to prevent water pooling and ensure proper drainage.
- Low-level shower trays are available in various materials, including acrylic, stone resin, or other durable materials. This allows for flexibility in terms of design, style, and durability, enabling you to choose a tray that suits your preferences and bathroom decor.
- Normally a low level shower tray would have a glass enclosure with or without doors depending on your individual circumstances.
Low-level showers are popular for their accessibility features and modern aesthetics. They can provide a practical and stylish solution for those seeking a shower with easier access.
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Level Access Shower Room
A level access shower room refers to a bathroom with a shower area that can be accessed without any steps or barriers. It is designed to be easily accessible for individuals with mobility challenges, such as those who use wheelchairs or have difficulty navigating steps. Key features of a level access shower room include:
- The shower area is on the same level as the rest of the bathroom floor, without any steps or raised platforms.
- It typically includes a shower tray, which is a shallow, waterproof surface that collects and drains the water. The tray will have a slight gradient to direct water towards the drain. Vinyl flooring specifically designed for wet rooms could be fitted up to the tray and cover the rest of the floor.
- The shower area may have a separate enclosure, such as a glass partition or curtain, to prevent water from splashing onto other parts of the bathroom.
- Level access shower rooms often include additional accessibility aids, such as grab bars, fold-down seating, and handheld showerheads.
In summary, whichever configuration would suit your individual requirements could be designed and fitted.
Clare: Can you share the initial challenges you faced after your wife’s MND diagnosis?
Ed: Certainly. My wife’s decline in mobility due to MND happened rapidly. Initially, we managed with grab rails provided by the local occupational therapist team, but it soon became apparent that more extensive adaptations
were needed.
Clare: How did the collaboration with Ian come about?
Ed: Ian played a crucial role in this process. Recognising the need for significant changes, we decided to convert our utility room into a fully adapted wet room. The adjoining playroom, which was no longer in use, was earmarked to become a bedroom. Ian and I worked closely, sharing ideas and finding solutions to ensure the best outcomes. His advice and input were invaluable throughout the project.
Clare: What were the key elements of the home adaptation project?
Ed: It was indeed a substantial project. We had to create a new doorway and partitioned wall, and the electrical layout needed to be reconfigured. Ian’s expertise ensured that every detail was carefully considered to meet our specific needs.
Clare: How has the adaptation impacted your wife’s mobility and daily life?
Ed: As my wife’s mobility declined further, she now requires a power-assisted trolley to get off the toilet. This would not have been possible without the adaptation and the spacious wet room. A conventional downstairs toilet wouldn’t provide sufficient space, but converting the utility room has significantly improved our day-to-day lives.
Clare: Can you elaborate on the importance of the wet room conversion for your wife’s needs?
Ed: The wet room adaptation was a game-changer. The space and accessibility it provides have become essential, especially as my wife’s needs have evolved. The collaborative effort with Ian allowed us to create a tailored solution that truly meets our requirements.
Clare: How has Ian’s involvement made a difference in the overall project?
Ed: Ian’s expertise and collaborative approach were instrumental in the success of this project. He not only provided technical solutions but also understood the human aspect of our situation. His input ensured that the adaptations were not just functional but also empathetic to the challenges we we were facing. Ian’s team genuinely went above and beyond what I expected. Ian, Jamie and the rest of the crew are incredibly professional but also very personable and thoughtful , and what could have been quite a disruptive piece of work went smoothly from start to finish and I’m delighted with the result. This home adaptation project, guided by Ian’s insights, has significantly enhanced the quality of life for my wife and myself. It has allowed us to navigate the challenges of MND with greater ease and comfort.
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