Wet rooms have become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to combine accessibility with luxury. These open-plan, fully waterproofed bathrooms create a sleek and modern aesthetic, ideal for both small and large spaces. But before taking the plunge into wet room installation, one of the first questions most homeowners ask is: how much does a wet room cost?
The answer isn’t entirely straightforward. The cost of a wet room can vary greatly depending on the size, materials, plumbing complexity, and whether you’re converting an existing space or starting from scratch. In this guide, we’ll break down all the factors that influence wet room pricing so you can plan your renovation project more confidently.
What is a Wet Room?
Before diving into costs, it’s helpful to define what exactly a wet room is. A wet room is a completely waterproof bathroom in which the shower area is not enclosed by a traditional cubicle. Instead, the room is designed with a gradient that allows water to flow into a drain set into the floor. The entire floor and walls are tanked (waterproofed), and the space is usually tiled from floor to ceiling.
Wet rooms are perfect for modern homes, especially where accessibility and minimalist design are priorities. They’re also highly favored in small bathrooms, as eliminating shower screens or trays can open up more usable space.
How Much Does a Wet Room Cost on Average?
The average cost of installing a wet room in the U.S. ranges from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on the complexity of the installation and quality of materials used. Here’s a general pricing breakdown:
| Size/Type | Estimated Cost |
| Small basic wet room (5×7 ft) | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Mid-size wet room (6×8 ft) | $12,000 – $16,000 |
| Large luxury wet room | $16,000 – $25,000+ |
These estimates include labor, waterproofing, tiling, fixtures, and fittings.
Key Factors That Affect Wet Room Costs
1. Waterproofing (Tanking)
This is the most essential element of any wet room. Waterproof membranes or tanking systems are installed across the entire floor and walls to prevent leaks. Professional tanking can cost between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the surface area.
2. Drainage and Flooring
The floor must be sloped toward a central drain, which sometimes requires building a sub-floor or modifying the existing one. Installing underfloor heating (optional but popular in wet rooms) will also increase the cost. Expect to spend around $1,500 to $3,000 for professional floor and drainage work.
3. Tiling and Materials
High-end materials like natural stone or custom mosaics can significantly increase your cost. On average:
- Ceramic tiles: $2 – $10 per sq. ft.
- Natural stone: $7 – $20+ per sq. ft.
- Installation: $5 – $15 per sq. ft.
Tiling alone can add $2,000 to $6,000 or more to your project.
4. Plumbing and Fixtures
Installing new plumbing lines or rerouting existing ones adds to the expense, particularly in older homes. Quality fixtures such as rainfall showers, floating vanities, and wall-mounted toilets can drive prices up. Plumbing and fixtures might cost $2,000 to $5,000 depending on complexity and brand selection.
5. Labor Costs
Labor often represents 40%–60% of your total cost. Hiring licensed professionals for waterproofing, plumbing, electrical, and tiling is crucial to ensure your wet room is safe and long-lasting. Labor alone can range from $3,000 to $8,000+ based on the project size and location.
6. Accessibility Features (Optional)
If you’re installing a wet room for accessibility, you might include handrails, non-slip tiles, walk-in tubs, or seated shower benches. These features can add $500 to $2,000 to the overall budget but are vital for aging-in-place or universal design plans.
Wet Room vs. Traditional Bathroom
Cost Comparison
Wet rooms are generally more expensive to install than standard bathrooms, primarily due to the extensive waterproofing and flooring work. While a traditional bathroom remodel might cost around $6,000 to $15,000, a wet room often starts around $8,000 and climbs from there.
However, the benefits of a wet room—modern aesthetics, increased property value, and accessibility—often justify the added expense.
Are Wet Rooms Worth the Investment?
If done well, wet rooms can boost your home’s resale value, especially in high-end markets or with buyers seeking stylish and accessible features. Some key benefits include:
- Easy cleaning with open designs and minimal fixtures
- Maximized space in small bathrooms
- Barrier-free access for elderly or disabled residents
- Spa-like luxury appeal in upscale homes
On the flip side, improper installation can lead to water damage, so it’s critical to hire experienced professionals for waterproofing and plumbing.
Ways to Save on Wet Room Installation
If you’re budget-conscious, here are a few tips to keep costs in check:
- Use mid-range tiles instead of high-end natural stone
- Limit customizations, such as built-in niches or benches
- Opt for standard fixtures over luxury fittings
- Keep plumbing in place to avoid rerouting costs
- Do minor tasks like demolition or painting yourself (if experienced)
Maintenance and Long-Term Costs
Once your wet room is installed, ongoing maintenance is minimal. Regular sealing of tiles (especially stone), checking the waterproof membrane, and clearing the drain are the primary tasks. Expect minimal long-term expenses if the room is properly installed and ventilated to prevent mold or mildew.
Final Thoughts
To circle back, how much does a wet room cost? On average, you’re looking at $8,000 to $20,000 depending on size, materials, and design choices. While it’s a higher upfront investment than a standard bathroom, a wet room pays off in style, ease of use, and potential resale value.
It’s an excellent choice for homeowners looking to future-proof their space or add a touch of luxury to their everyday routine. If you’re converting a second bathroom or creating a guest suite, it could be the standout feature that sets your property apart.
And speaking of standout investments, if you’re funding your renovation or just planning to shift focus toward other ventures, it may be time to sell your El Paso Texas land. Land sales can provide the capital needed for home improvements like a wet room upgrade—or even help you secure your next dream property.
Call us anytime at 713-561-5162 or connect with us on our website and we’ll lay out all of your options for your specific situation.