Impey Showers - Wetroom FAQs – Ask the Expert
Shaun Hunt is Impey’s Technical and Trade Marketing Manager and a true expert when it comes to the specification and installation of wetrooms. We posed a selection of wetroom FAQs to Shaun, and he offered some invaluable information and insight.
How do I explore wetroom options for my home?
The first thing you should do when exploring the idea of a wetroom is to consider the structure of your home, and whether it is suitable for a wetroom arrangement.
Can the wetroom be installed against an outside wall to allow easy access to outside drainage? If not, are there sufficient options to create a run of pipework for drainage? Would a pumped waste be an option?
When installing the wetroom on a ground floor, the depth of screed is an important consideration. We suggest that 50mm – 75mm on top of the structural slab is the minimum. If this is not possible, there are other options you can consider, which involve creating a new floor with adequate drainage gradient to remove the wastewater effectively.
If you want to know the depth of screed in your property, you can use a drill to make a hole in the screed and you will be able to recognise when you reach the structural slab by the resistance felt through the drill.
If you prefer, ask a trained wetroom installer to come along and look at your property to scope out your wetroom options.
Can any type of bathroom be converted into a wetroom?
Our portfolio of wetroom solutions has been developed to install a wetroom in virtually any situation. From the simplicity and versatility of our Aqua-Dec EasyFit wetroom floor former, to the luxe of our Aqua-Dec Linear wetroom decs. Whether on a ground floor or an upper floor, we have an Impey product which will be suitable for your installation requirements.
As long as there is enough room to accommodate the showering area and create effective drainage, there are very few spaces which are not suitable for you to have wetroom installation.
When installing in a loft or attic space, it is important to check the thickness of the joists before conversion of the space. The joists must be domestic dwelling floor joists of the correct thickness and spacing, to ensure the integrity of the wetroom.
How does a wetroom work & what are the key components of a wetroom?
To install an Impey wetroom, the key components are
Gradient
Drainage
Waterproofing
The wetroom floor former must have a 1:40 gradient to allow the shower water to flow away through the waste into the drain. This equates to a 25mm drop for every metre of pipework.
The gradient is created by installing one of our prefabricated wetroom decs or by using our Aqua-Grade screed template system to create a new-pour concrete floor for wetroom drainage.
We recommend that the whole of your wetroom space, floors and walls are tanked (waterproofed) to alleviate any potential leakage issues. For further information about tanking guidelines, you can consult the Impey website.
After waterproofing you can fit tiles, enhance the space and invest in the longevity of the wetroom by fitting underfloor heating before tiling.
How long will it take to install my wetroom?
The length of installation is dependent on many factors, including the size and complexity of your project, the type of property, unforeseen circumstances, the experience and competence of the installer etc.
In a modern property, where the fitting is quick and simple, and no hitches are encountered, it is possible to install a wetroom from start to finish within a week.
We have developed a selection of products that are straightforward and fast to install. But of course, if your project involves rerouting pipework, relocating radiators, intricate tiling or working with several trades, there are situations where the installation can take longer.
Does a wetroom need a shower tray?
A wetroom floor former tray (sometimes called a dec), will often be hidden underneath the tiles. Our Impey wetroom floor formers are preformed with the perfect gradient to ensure efficient and effective drainage.
A true wetroom is level-access and therefore does not have a visible shower tray.
How can I ensure that a wetroom will not leak?
Starting with pipework, as a brand we insist that all connections are solvent welded. The reason for this is that rubber seals on compression fittings can degrade over time, leading to leaks that can damage the integrity of a building.
We recommend that all Impey wetrooms should be fitted with our market-leading waterproofing solution, WaterGuard. WaterGuard is a tanking solution for walls and floors, and when installed with any Impey Aqua-Dec floor former provides a lifetime watertight guarantee.
WaterGuard is a 1mm thick, flexible waterproofing membrane. The complete wetroom sealing solution - not just for floors but also for walls. When correctly installed across the entirety of a wetroom, it provides an impenetrable barrier against leaks.
The butyl rubber coated self-adhesive sealing membrane is supplied on a roll, making it extremely easy to handle and apply. And to aid installation, WaterGuard requires no curing time and can be tiled directly after laying, reducing fitting time dramatically compared to other paint on alternatives. The polypropylene non-woven surface allows for an easy key for tile adhesive and clearly printed guidelines provide a guide for tiling and measurement. WaterGuard is 100% compatible with epoxy and solvent-based sealers.
For your peace of mind, when installing our WaterGuard system with any Impey floor former we offer a ‘Lifetime Watertight Guarantee,’ which lasts for the lifespan of the tiles used within the wetroom environment.
Does a wetroom require a glass screen or enclosure?
Whether you choose to include a glass screen or enclosure depends on your wetroom design and the overall aesthetic which you wish to achieve.
It’s not necessary to include any glass within the wetroom, particularly in small wetroom where space is at a premium.
If your wetroom is a larger space, you may wish to create a contained area with either a screen or an enclosure to ensure the showering area is not draughty, and steam is contained within.
What kind of tiles can I use in my wetroom?
In the majority of cases, tiles that are suitable for a wetroom floor are chosen to complete the look. Opting for floor tiles with a textured finish is a popular choice.
If you require a high level of slip resistance for an accessible wetroom, non-slip tiles or vinyl flooring may be a consideration.
Do wetrooms look institutional?
There is no reason that your level-access shower space needs to look institutional. Even when designed for accessibility, there are many stylish options for grab rails, shower seating and glass screens which can ensure you have a contemporary showering space regardless of access requirements.
How do I keep my wetroom clean?
We do not recommend that you use harsh chemical bathroom or drain cleaners for your wetroom, as this can cause the degradation of rubber seals within the pipework and turn plastic brittle.
Cleaning your wetroom trap by hand is a simple and quick job. Learn how it comes apart and keep it clean by removing and washing it in a bucket of soapy water as required.
You can take a look at our YouTube channel for more information about cleaning and maintenance of your wetroom.
How long will a wetroom last?
When installed in accordance with our manufacturer's instructions, your wetroom should last for the lifespan of the tiles used. This could be up to 20 years or potentially longer if looked after.
The complete Impey wetroom system comes with a lifetime guarantee. This guarantee lasts for the lifespan of the tiles used in the original installation.
Who should install my wetroom?
It is important that you choose an experienced installer who has been trained to fit Impey wetrooms. Opting for someone who is familiar with the product range and the installation methods will ensure the best possible outcome for your wetroom.
We offer free of charge ‘We Are Wetrooms’ training courses, which cover installation of our Aqua-Dec EasyFit and Aqua-Dec Linear models as well as the Aqua-Grade screed template product range and WaterGuard tanking membrane. To register your interest or find out more here.
For any technical queries, drop us an email or call 01460 256 080.
Is a wetroom suitable for wheelchair access?
Absolutely, yes it is. If you are intending to use your wetroom for wheelchair access it is important to ensure that there is enough space for entry / exit and a turning circle.
Our prefabricated floor formers can support up to 300KG (47 stone) without the need for underboarding, ensuring that they are ideal for wheelchair users and people who shower with a carer.
If you would like to find out more, our Accessible, Independent and Assisted Living Showering Brochure is available to download.
If you have any further questions or queries regarding the installation of your Impey wetroom do not hesitate to get in touch.
You can email our technical specialists at: technical.support@impeyshowers.com
Alternatively, if you are a stockist or have several individuals who would benefit from specialist wetroom installation knowledge, get in touch to book one of our bespoke CPD courses. CPD enquiries can be submitted via our online contact form.