Creating Bathrooms for the Elderly That Are Safe & Stylish

With 18% of the UK population now aged 65 or over, ensuring that our homes are suitable for old age has become increasingly important. A critical concern for many elderly people is to continue to live comfortably and safely in their own home for as long as possible. But did you know that 20% of adults today find difficulty in everyday tasks such as personal care and this often goes unchecked and unremedied?

A bathroom created by Room H2o for a disabled customer in Dorset by Room H2o

We need to make sure that our bathrooms are adapted for the changing needs of our families and that bathroom aids for the elderly, including bath seats for the elderly and walk in showers for the elderly, are a priority within this so that the older generation can see out their golden years in comfort and style.

Room H2O suggests a few practical ways below in which you can make your bathroom a safer and easier place to manage as you, or a family member, ages.

An accessible bathroom layout

There are several space-specific factors to consider where accessible bathrooms for the elderly are concerned:

  • Where does the bathroom open out to (e.g. a hallway or bedroom) and is there enough space to manoeuvre a walking frame or wheelchair?
  • Is the doorway wide enough for an older person with impaired mobility to enter and exit comfortably?
  • Is the layout easily accessible e.g. is the shower placed straight in front of the doorway so it’s easy to get to without negotiating corners and turns? Is there enough room between the toilet and the wash basin for legs and/or a walking frame or the addition of a support frame?
  • Are the bathroom suite products chosen and positioned with care e.g. is there any need for a floating sink so that a wheelchair can fit underneath or a swing skin that can be moved away from the wall? Is there any need for a lavatory or bath with an adjustable height so that it’s easier to access?

Plans for and easy access disabled bathroom by Room H2o for a customer in Dorset

If executed by a skilled and experienced bathroom design company such as Room H2o, you could have an accessible bathroom that has as much style as any regular bathroom while considering comfort and safety for all. It’s possible to make your facilities suitable for the entire family, from young children to elderly relatives, and we can show you how we will achieve your vision with our in-house CAD bathroom design software.

Strike it safe with bathroom lighting

Good lighting in any bathroom is essential. Dim or insufficient illumination that hides potential trip and slip hazards makes accidents less avoidable and more likely. Make sure the lighting is bright and consistent, particularly around the toilet, hand basin and shower/bath areas. You could even consider adding low level floor lighting to these key areas to provide extra clarity.

This does not mean that functionality has to supersede flair, as well as the choice of cool (white-toned) crisp lighting and warm (yellow-toned) subtle lighting options that compliment your interior design theme you can opt for mood-lighting (including lights of different colours, contrasts and tempos) in and around the bath or shower to aid the relaxation of the bathing ritual.

You should also consider light switches, are they easy for those with impaired mobility to reach and operate? Trends are leaning towards lights with motion sensors, which are not always ideal for those who may be seated for extended periods, and large wall pads with an easy click on and off without strain.

Bathroom mirrors and shelving solutions with built-in border or back lighting can add seamless style as well as extra light while LED ceiling spot lights can add a good overall natural-light feel to brighten smaller or darker spaces that do not benefit from windows or a sky-light.

Consider a walk-in bath or walk-in shower

This luxury walk-in shower provides easy access for disabled or elderly people

Traditional baths have high sides, which can be tricky for people with limited mobility or balance issues to get in and out of. And, while useful short-term, bathtub steps for the elderly are not always the ideal future-proofing solution. Both height-adjustable baths and walk-in baths both are available as excellent alternatives.

While adjustable baths can be lowered to a more manageable step-up height, walk-in baths can be entered at ground-level and then, once the door is shut, filled to temperature. But the water will need fully draining before you can get back out of the bath. Bath seats for the elderly are also a wonderful solution for those who can’t submerge but still enjoy a good soak.

Those who would still like the occasional use of a bath with the more regular use of a shower for everyday ablutions, should consider a modern ‘shower bath’ options. A bath/shower can be fitted with a semi-frameless or frameless glass shower enclosure to make access easier. These modified designs provide adequate room for you and a carer to assist, if required.

Even a small change, such as installing a slim shower tray, will help keep the floor level and minimise tripping hazards. We can also fit shower seats for the elderly complete with foot rests, making things more comfortable if you have difficulty standing for any length of time. Shower chairs or stalls could be wall-mounted for extra stability or foldable to save space when not in use.

Remember, Room H2o are specialists in made-to-measure shower enclosures so we can design and install a walk in shower for the elderly to suit your exacting requirements and budget.

Those with limited mobility may want to consider the installation of a complete wet room – this comprises a fully waterproof level tiled floor throughout the bathroom with no ledges or trip hazards. Most contemporary wet rooms are suitable for individuals who need wheelchair access or require a shower seat on wheels.

In terms of the shower itself, it’s best to opt for a shower hose with a longer length and to have a shower head fitted on a riser, rather than in a fixed position, and on a side wall that’s easier to reach when seated. The ability to adjust or even remove the shower head means that it can used when standing or seated.

Slip-resistant bathroom floor coverings

Slip resistant black floor tiles in a wet room shower

The most obvious and important aspect of any bathroom is the floor. Remember, there is no such thing as anti-slip flooring for bathrooms. Whether you choose vinyl, porcelain tiles or natural stone make sure that you choose one which has a high degree of slip-resistance – wet or dry. Textured finishes, such as matt or brushed, are best and something like a porcelain tile that has a high water-resistance is good too. The tiling professionals at our sister company UK Tiles Direct can advise you on the best choice of slip-resistant flooring as a bathroom aid for the elderly.

The addition of an extractor fan is also good to reduce the level of ambient moisture in the bathroom during and after use. Less condensation, especially on the floor, means less chance of a slip hazard. Don’t use any rugs or mats which do not have a slip resistant backing and keep carpeting to a minimum for maximum hygiene and ease of negotiating a wheelchair or walking frame around. Underfloor heating is an excellent way to keep damp bathroom floors dry but it’s not always suitable for use with vinyl floor coverings so take this into careful consideration when choosing a surface that will tick all your boxes for practically and safety.

Use of different types, finishes, colours or patterns of floor covering could help the visually-impaired to navigate their way around the different areas of the bathroom with more ease. Eyesight often deteriorates with age and it’s not always practical to shower with your specs on!

Stylish grab rails for the elderly and accessible toilets

Stylish stainless steel grab rails installed in a shower by Room H2o in Dorset

For many older people moving from standing to sitting, or vice versa, can be difficult. This is a particular problem with modern toilets, which can be quite low to the ground. Consider replacing your facilities with a raised toilet, available in a range of stylish designs and colours and in heights from 390 mm to 460 mm. Alternatively, a lavatory with an adjustable height could be a good option.

Grab rails positioned at strategic points in the shower, bathtub or around the toilet are a must for an accessible bathroom or washroom. Modern designs with stylish finishes, such as chrome or stainless steel, which match taps and towel rails avoid the functional ‘hospital’ look while contrasting metals alongside concrete or stone-effect tiles could add an urban-chic to your overall bathroom design.

For more information, ideas or to view our selection of safe luxury bathroom displays simply contact us or visit the Room H2O Bathroom and tile showroom in Wareham, Dorset.

Make Your Bathroom a Safer Place For Old Age

With nearly 11 million people now aged 65 or over ensuring that our homes are suitable for old age is becoming increasingly important. Being able to continue to live comfortably and safely in their own home for as long as possible is a critical concern to many elderly people. One of the most essential elements in being able to do this is making sure that your bathroom is both safe and adapted for your changing needs.

Room H2O have put together a few practical ways in which you can make your bathroom a safer and easier place to manage as you, or a family member, ages.

This luxury large frameless shower enclosure features a level access wetroom floor and a shower seat perfect for elderly users

Bathroom lighting is important

Good lighting in any bathroom is essential. Dim or insufficient illumination makes accidents far more likely – hiding both trip and slip hazards. Make sure the lighting is bright and even, particularly around the toilet, hand basin and shower/bath areas.

Consider replacing your bath with an easy access shower

Traditional baths have high sides which can be tricky for people with limited mobility or balance issues. Replacing this with a semi-frameless or frameless glass shower enclosure makes access easier and provides adequate room for both you and a carer to assist, if required. Even a small change, such as installing a slim shower tray, will help.

Showers can also easily be fitted with seats, making things more comfortable if you have difficulty standing for any length of time. Elegant designs for these and foot rests mean a practical but stylish bathroom can be maintained.

For those who have severe access issues you may want to consider the installation of a complete wet room – this creates a level tiled floor throughout the bathroom with no ledges or trip hazards. This is most suitable for individuals who need wheelchair access.

In terms of the shower itself it’s best to have a shower head fitted on a riser, rather than in a fixed position. The ability to adjust or even remove the shower head, means that it can used when standing, seated or for hand washing.

For those who would still like the occasional use of a bath consider fitting one of the modern ‘shower bath’ options, with a built in door for easy access and a discreet shower screen.

Slip resistant bathroom floor coverings

The most obvious and important aspect of any bathroom is the floor. Remember: there is no such thing as anti-slip flooring for bathrooms. Whether you chose vinyl, tiles or natural stone make sure that you choose one which has a high degree of slip resistance – wet or dry. Texture finishes are best. Do not use any rugs or mats which do not have a slip resistant backing.

Underfloor heating is an excellent way to keep damp bathroom floors dry but is not always suitable for use with vinyl floor coverings.

Fitting an extractor fan is also a good idea to reduce the level of ambient moisture in the bathroom during and after use. Less condensation, especially on the floor, means less chance of a slip hazard.

Stylish hand rails and convenient adapted toilets

For many older people moving from standing to sitting, or vice versa, can be difficult. This is especially the case with modern toilets which can be quite low to the ground. Consider replacing with a modern raised toilet, available in a range of stylish designs and colours, in heights from 390 mm to 460 mm.

Hand rails positioned at strategic points in the shower or around the toilet are vital. Modern designs with stylish finishes, such as chrome or stainless steel, which match taps and towel rails avoid the functional, ‘hospital’ look.

For more information, ideas or to view our selection of safe luxury bathroom displays simply contact us or visit the Room H2O Bathroom and tile showroom in Wareham, Dorset.

The Best Places to Get Advice & Inspiration For Your Bathroom Design

Any interior design project can be overwhelming. And when it comes to bathroom design, there are so many fabulous products, innovative ideas and evolving trends, it can be hard to know where to start.

Here’s a guide to the best places to go for inspiration, ideas and expert advice for your bespoke bathroom design project.

Bathroom design inspiration is just a click away

The internet is bursting with ideas and bathroom design advice. There are a host of online magazines and websites dedicated to bathroom design. For example, if you visit idealhome.co.uk/bathrooms, you’ll be presented with an array of wonderful concepts for bathrooms of all shapes, sizes and themes, as well as tips on decorating, finding the perfect fixtures and fittings, and expert advice on everything from bespoke shower design to laying tiles.

The Ideal Home website is a great source for bespoke bathroom design ideas

Websites suchas Ideal Home are a great resources for bespoke bathroom design ideas

Room H2o’s Pinterest profile is crammed full of suggestions to inspire you – whether you’re looking for ideas for en suite bathrooms, shower design, or you want to have a look at some examples of our made-to-measure shower screens, there are hundreds of pins to help you get your creative juices flowing. You’re also sure to be inspired if you stop by and take a look at our Houzz projects and idea books, too.

Room H2o Houzz profile for bespoke bathroom design projects and ideas

Visit the Room H2o Houzz and Pinterest profiles for bespoke bathroom design ideas and projects

View bespoke bathroom design at showrooms or events

One of the greatest ways to glean ideas for bespoke bathroom design is to see examples in-situ. If you visit our large showroom in Wareham, Dorset, you can see a range of fantastic products from some of the leading bathroom designers and brands. From luxurious showering solutions, including frameless shower screens and ultra-thin shower trays, to stylish brassware, gorgeous furniture and exquisite tile collections from our sister company, UK Tiles Direct. With stunning display bays, you’ll be able to envisage the possibilities for your own bespoke bathroom design.

You can see the latest bathroom products and get bespoke bathroom design advice at the Room H2o showroom in Wareham Dorset

You can see the latest bathroom products and get bespoke bathroom design advice at the Room H2o showroom in Wareham Dorset

You could also visit one of the many industry shows around the country, for more inspirational ideas for your bathroom design project. The Ideal Home Show runs at Olympia, in London, around March/April each year, encompassing everything to do with the home, including the very latest interior design trends. Grand Designs Live is on at the NEC in Birmingham from 11th to 15th October this year, with over 500 exhibitors offering innovative ideas and up-to-the-minute design solutions for every room of the home, including bathrooms.

Grand Designs Live and similar interiors shows are great for getting bespoke bathroom design ideas

Vist shows such as Grand Designs Live and the Ideal Home Show for bathroom design ideas

Speak to an expert bathroom designer

Enlisting the help of a professional is a great way to make sure you achieve the bespoke bathroom design of your dreams. Whether an interior designer or one of Room H2o’s expert bathroom designers, you could actually find you save money in the long run by investing in professional help at the beginning. If you have a bathroom design consultation with one of our designers, you’ll benefit from expert advice on everything from style, design, layout, materials and installation, which could help you avoid making any expensive mistakes.

Bathroom design plans created by Room H2o using Virtual Worlds design and visualisation software

A professional bathroom designer will be able to provide advice and technical assitance for your bespoke bathroom design

See your bespoke bathroom design come to life

With our state-of-the-art bespoke bathroom design software, you can actually see your bathroom design before you buy. Our in-house CAD-based software allows us to generate floor plans and 3D illustrations of your bathroom, taking into account all your ideas and aspirations, which will be discussed in detail at your bathroom design consultation. This is the perfect way to see your dream bathroom design brought to life.

This luxury bathroom was designed by Room H2o for a client in Bournemouth using Virtual Worlds

Virtual Worlds bathroom design software, as used by Room H2o, allows you to see and make changes to your bespoke bathroom design before you buy

For more inspirational bespoke bathroom design ideas, please visit our large bathroom and tile showroom in Wareham, Dorset, today.

Our Guide To Planning A Great En-suite Bathroom

En-suite bathrooms are a great addition to any home, for comfort, convenience and value. But there’s lot to think about when planning your en-suite bathroom design – from plumbing and electrics to fixtures and fittings. Here’s a guide to help you get the most from your en-suite bathroom installation and design

Loft en-suite bathroom with frameless walk-in shower screen

Loft en-suite bathroom with frameless walk-in shower screen

Think about the space you have for an en-suite bathroom

Where are you planning to put your en-suite? The space you have available is the determining factor in what you can do with your en-suite bathroom design. But, thanks to clever space-saving ideas and bespoke products like made-to-measure shower screens, even the smallest of areas can be transformed into an en-suite bathroom.

An en-suite bathroom design proposal created with Virtual Worlds

An en-suite bathroom design proposal created with Virtual Worlds 

Take time to think about how you can make the most of the space you have. Do you need a simple, convenient en-suite bathroom or do you want to create a more luxurious place to relax? Chic shower designs, whether an over-bath shower or a shower enclosure with a frameless glass shower screen, and fabulous bathroom tiles – from large porcelain tiles to mosaics and marble – will all help you create your perfect space.

The construction of your en-suite bathroom

If you’re re-fitting an en-suite bathroom, you probably won’t need building regulations approval, as long as you’re just replacing existing fittings with new ones. If you’re fitting a new en-suite bathroom, then it’s likely you’ll need building regulations approval to make sure ventilation, drainage, electrical work and structural stability meet standard requirements.

If your bathroom design involves creating a new room or partitioning an existing one, then you’ll need to add extra walls, and the construction of these is highly important. You would usually build a stud wall, with a timber frame and plasterboard over the top, which should be water resistant to help avoid damp. It’s also worth thinking at this stage if you want the structure of your en-suite bathroom to be part of the overall bathroom design – for example, open beams or exposed brickwork.

Heating and plumbing options for an en-suite bathroom design

There are many heating and plumbing options to consider for your en-suite bathroom – from the type of boiler you have down to the water pressure. And these will be some of the determining factors when you’re choosing the fixtures for your bathroom design.

If you have a combi boiler, you need to make sure it has enough hot water flow to supply to another bathroom, and check your water pressure so you can choose the right taps and ensure the most appropriate shower installation. In en-suite bathroom design, heated towel rails are a popular choice over radiators, as a practical solution where space is limited.

Cutaway bathroom floor showing Thermonet electric underfloor heating system

Cutaway bathroom floor showing Thermonet electric underfloor heating system

Underfloor heating is ideal in an en-suite bathroom, for a continuous warm environment. Electric underfloor heating works brilliantly with large, thin porcelain tiles, keeping them lovely and warm underfoot and allowing for quick drying.

Choosing your en-suite bathroom lighting and electrics

First and foremost, safety is key when it comes to the lighting and electrics for your en-suite bathroom. Always consult a qualified and registered electrician to help with installing your electrics and lighting, as there are strict regulations on what you can use in a wet environment.

Effective bathroom lighting highlights design features and washing areas

Effective bathroom lighting in this luxury en-suite highlights design features and washing areas

Your choice of lighting can set the mood, make wonderful effects and help to give the illusion of a bigger space. Using different kinds of lighting can create wonderful ambience, offer practicality and really brighten things up if you don’t have a window in your en-suite bathroom. Well-placed spotlights are good for giving bright and directional light, and can be surface mounted or set into walls, ceilings and floors.

Selecting tiles for the floor and walls of your en-suite bathroom

Bathroom tiles offer a world of opportunities for both the style and function of your en-suite bathroom. Our sister company, UK Tiles Direct, has a fabulous range of tiling ideas for en-suite bathrooms. The beautiful collection of ceramic, natural stone and coloured glass mosaic tiles are ideal for both walls and floors – from the sophisticated Cosmos Grey and Black Square, to the stunning beige hues of Planet Gold Circle. Add a splash of colour with Quartz Red or go bold with Lagos Lima or Lagos Corinto – guaranteed to inject personality and brighten up any space.

Porcel-Thin book matched white marble porcelain tiles create and eye-catching backdrop for the elegant freestanding bath

Porcel-Thin book matched white marble porcelain tiles create and eye-catching backdrop for the elegant freestanding bath  

With a stunning selection of large porcelain tiles, you can create a wonderfully spacious and seamless floor, with fewer grout lines for easier upkeep. Advances in technology have made it possible to produce exceptionally realistic marble and wood look tiles, which are a fabulous and extremely hardwearing alternative to the real thing. The stunning Silk Silver marble effect exudes luxury, while the Jurassic Vein Black brings a striking ‘wow factor’ to any en-suite bathroom.

Always use the right products when installing your bathroom tiles, like waterproof tile adhesive and waterproof tile grout, available from the Kerakoll range.

Your en-suite bathroom fixtures and fittings

Possibly one of the biggest considerations when installing an en-suite bathroom is your choice of fixtures and fittings. Much of this will be determined by the space you have to work with, but you certainly don’t have to compromise on style, even in the smallest of rooms.

At Room H2o, we have a wide range of luxury bathroom fixtures and fittings to suit all tastes and budgets. Our selection includes both modern and traditional basin taps including designer offerings from major brands, such as Vado, Crosswater, Woodstock and Rialto. We also have a variety of high-quality toilets to suit any en-suite bathroom design – from wall hung and floor standing, to duel flush and water saving options.

Designer Hero wall hung toilet and wide vanity unit by Roper Rhodes

Hero designer wall hung toilet and wide vanity unit by Roper Rhodes

Our extensive selection of shower enclosures, frameless glass shower screens, made-to-measure shower screens and bespoke shower trays offers something for everyone. For the epitome of luxury, make a bold, contemporary statement with the innovative Drench range of black shower enclosures, or choose one of our stunning frameless glass shower enclosures, made to your exact requirements.

From our highly skilled bathroom designers to our installation technicians, our team of experts is here to help you create your perfect en-suite bathroom. Get in touch with us or visit our large bathroom and tile showroom in Wareham, Dorset, today.

Make Your Bathroom a Mould-Free Zone

Mould thrives in a damp environment, so it’s no wonder it makes itself so at home in a bathroom. But the good news is, with a few simple steps, you can prevent it.

Mould is a fungus that reproduces by way of spores carried through the air. Outside, it’s actually quite useful as it breaks down dead matter like leaves, plants and trees. But in the home it can be a pest – and it’s not just limited to bathrooms (although this is the most common place), it will thrive on any damp surface in the home.

Health issues associated with Mould

The allergens mould produces can cause problems for some, with allergic reactions such as sneezing, eye irritation, congestion, a runny nose, skin rashes and dermatitis. So it’s even more important to keep it at bay if you can.

Your bathroom design

  • When designing your bathroom, there are things you can do to help prevent mould from growing:
  • Make sure it’s well ventilated with an extractor fan that’s suitable for the size of the room.
  • Think about tiled or sealed stone surfaces, as they will absorb less moisture than wood or paint.
  • Use paints designed for bathrooms or kitchens, as they usually contain anti-bacterial and fungal additives.
  • Fit underfloor heating, as it helps floors dry quickly.
  • Use good quality sealants, and tile grouts and adhesives with bacteriostatic and fungi static additives.

Looking after your bathroom

Simple day-to-day care can help to keep your bathroom free of mould:

  • Don’t let water and moisture stand for long. Remove excess water from surfaces after showering or bathing. This will also help to keep your bathroom or wetroom looking good, by preventing watermarks and calcium stains.
  • Clean your bathroom often, using anti-bacterial products, and dry thoroughly after.
  • Ventilation isn’t just about having an extractor fan – keep the door open when you can and open the window too.

Good heating and ventilation, combined with carefully selected finishes and construction materials that contain anti-bacterial and fungal additives, can help make your bathroom or wetroom a mould-free zone.

A Comprehensive Guide to How to Seal a Shower Tray

Wondering how to seal a shower tray or looking for top DIY tips on how best to apply silicone sealant? Room H2O’s expert advisors are here to help …

This is how to apply silicone sealant to shower tray with a neat bead formed with a smoothing tool

One of the most common causes of water leaks from shower trays, shower enclosures and baths is the poor application of silicone sealant. Here are some handy tips to set you on the right path and make sure you apply silicone sealant correctly to achieve a professional finish and prevent water leaks.

Shower tray sealing: the right tools

  • Choose the correct type of silicone sealant that is compatible with your chosen wall or floor coverings (such as natural stone, porcelain tiles or ceramic tiles). Consult the tile supplier or sealant manufacturer for further guidance.
  • Buy a hygienic silicone sealant of good quality. It should specify that it is suitable for use in bathrooms / wetrooms and contain an anti-mould and bacterial additives such as Kerakoll Fugabella Eco Silicone Sealant  or Kerakoll Fugabella AM Silicone Sealant, which are both available from our sister company UK Tiles Direct.
  • Buy a good quality sealant application gun to make applying silicone sealant an even and consistent process. For even smoother results, you could also buy a silicone sealant application tool. Made from rubber and designed to remove excess sealant, these handy tools will help you achieve a neat bead of silicone when sealing a shower tray. The Fugi, produced by Cramer (pictured below), features cut outs of various sizes which produce different bead thicknesses. While this is suitable for use with silicone sealant and caulking, similar good quality tools can be purchased from tile retailers and good DIY outlets.
  • Buy a good retractable utility knife.  A sharp knife will be required for opening the silicone sealant and trimming the application nozzle to size.
  • Make sure you have paper towels and a large plastic bag to hand when shower tray sealing. Silicone sealant is sticky by nature so when smoothing the freshly applied sealant, you will likely need to clean excess from the application tool with paper towel. After cleaning, dispose of the paper towel and make sure your hands are clean.

Silicone sealant application and finishing tool by Cramer

Preparation is key when sealing a shower tray

  • It is important to read and follow the silicone sealant manufacturer’s instructions.
  • The sealant must be fully cured before it comes into contact with water.
  • Remove loose deposits and surface dust with a vacuum then, with a damp cloth that has been soaked in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to remove any stubborn deposits, thoroughly clean and dry the area where the silicone sealant will be applied (the shower tray surface and tiles).
  • Give the area a final wipe down with a clean damp cloth to remove any residual detergent but do not get the area wet.
  • Thoroughly dry the shower tray area with paper towel or allow the shower tray to air dry for a couple of hours before applying the silicone sealant, which will not adhere properly should any moisture remain.

Top 10 tips for applying silicone sealant to shower trays

1 – Clean the shower tray

Check the shower tray and walls are completely dry and free from dirt, dust, grease and debris or the silicone sealant will not adhere correctly.

Thoroughly clean the shower tray and tiles to ensure the surface is free of dirt and grease before applying silicone sealant

2 – How much silicone sealant to use

If using a tool to smooth the silicone sealant, select the correct aperture size to produce a bead that will fully cover the gap between the shower tray and tiles.

A Fugi silicone sealant application with various sized cut-outs at each corner for achieving various thicknesses of silicone sealant bead

3 – Sizing the sealant application nozzle

The nozzle of the silicone sealant tube will usually feature perforated marks to indicate where and how to trim the nozzle but a good rule of thumb is to cut at a 45-degree angle and create a 5-6mm hole in the end of the tube, which can be enlarged if a wider bead is required.

Trim the nozzle of the silicone sealant tube at a slight and angle and do not be tempted to make the aperture too large

4 – Applying silicone sealant to the shower tray

Apply the silicone sealant to the inner corner of the shower tray. Use gentle pressure to the trigger of the application gun and work towards the front of the shower tray in one continuous, smooth action to ensure application of a uniform silicone bead.

Applying silicone sealant in a continuous bead from the back corner of the shower tray to the front

5 – Be careful

Do not apply too much sealant as excessive amounts can be difficult and messy to remove.  More sealant can be applied prior to smoothing if required

6 – Make sure there are no gaps in the sealant bead

Ensure the bead of silicone sealant is continuous and thick enough to fully cover the gap between the shower tray and the tiles. If any visible gaps remain, carefully add a little more sealant to these areas.

A correctly applied bead of sealant to a shower tray with no gaps or bubbles prior to smoothing and finishing

7 – Clean the sealant application nozzle

Once you have finished each line of sealant, release the pressure from the application gun. Wipe away excess sealant from the nozzle and replace the cap. Residual pressure can remain in the tube causing silicone sealant to leak from the nozzle so take care!

8 – Achieving a perfect silicone sealant bead

Starting from the point the silicone was first applied, place the silicone sealant smoothing tool against the shower tray and tiles. Apply gentle but even pressure and draw the tool along the length of the shower tray, remove excess silicone and leave a neat bead as you go.

A Fugi silicone sealant finishing tool creates a neat bead of silicon sealant around the perimeter of the shower tray

9 – Take care not to tear the new silicone sealant

Once a smooth, uniform bead has been achieved around the shower tray, do not be tempted to keep smoothing the silicone as it will start to tear, look untidy and may not adhere correctly.

10 – Allow the silicone sealant to dry fully

Allow to cure fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, fresh silicone should be left to dry or cure for a minimum of 24 hours, although this depends on the brand and type of sealant.

A perfectly straight and neat fresh bead of silicone sealant applied around the edges of a shower tray to prevent water leaks

Resealing a shower enclosure

Whether you are resealing the shower enclosure in the bathroom at home or you are a contractor planning on sealing showers for a large development, the best advice we can give you is:

  • Remove old sealant – Use a sealant remover to dissolve the existing sealant, or, carefully scrape at it with a plastic or metal blade.
  • Clean and dry – Use warm water containing a mild detergent to thoroughly remove grime and residue from the area and then use paper towels or a hairdryer to speed up the drying process.
  • Make it neat – A sealant application tool, such as the Fugi by Cramer, will help you to achieve a neat and even bead of silicone sealant
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions – As a rule of thumb shower doors and enclosures should only be sealed around the outside at the bases and on the inside and outside of the vertical profiles where they meet the tiled walls.  Sealing around the base on the inside will often cause a shower enclosure to leak.  Carefully read the manufacturers sealing instructions before applying silicone sealant.
  • Seal that shower – Follow our shower tray sealing tips above for hassle-free shower sealing with a smooth, neat finish.

Some tips on sealing a bath

We know that not everyone has the luxury of a freestanding bath and that many modern bathroom designs will incorporate over-bath showers that also require sealing.  When sealing a bath, follow the preparation advice above but remember that there is one crucial extra step you will need to take before reaching for the silicone sealant.

  • Make sure the bath is filled with water prior to applying the sealant
  • The water in the bath acts as a weight (most baths settle slightly when filled due to the movement in flooring) and ensures that the silicone sealant will not stretch or tear when the tub is filled at bath time and the weight of a human is added.

Shower sealing, installation and more

Room H2O appreciates that DIY is not everyone’s cup of tea and there are some jobs you would rather leave to the professionals. With that in mind, we offer a full range of specialist services from bathroom installation services in Dorset to made to measure shower enclosure survey and installation services throughout the South East. Should you require more information about our shower sealing and bathroom fitting services, do not hesitate to get in touch.

Contact our Dorset bathroom shower design team on 01929 551963 or wareham@roomh2o.co.uk

Tips for Fabulous Small Bathroom Designs

Having a small bathroom doesn’t mean you’re restricted on how creative you can be with its design. With some clever ideas and expert advice, you can have the luxury small bathroom of your dreams.

Here are our top small bathroom design tips.

A space efficient small bathroom designed using virtual worlds bathroom design software

Sinks for small bathrooms

If you want to save space, corner sinks are a perfect choice, as are narrow troughs. When wall mounted, the low profile of a trough sink frees up floor space, which is perfect for storage. An oval sink is a highly stylish choice, which will also give you more surface space than a square.

Baths and small bathrooms

One of the fundamental considerations in small bathroom design is whether the space allows for a bath. If you have room for a bath, or you want a large indulgent tub, you could look at clever ways to free up more room around it, such as shelves built into the wall for towels and toiletries. Consider adding a glass bathscreen for the added practicality of a shower over the bath.

Shower enclosures for small bathrooms

Clear shower enclosures are ideal in a small bathroom, with glass being the perfect way to really open up the area. Use a glass panel rather than a door, as swinging doors take up valuable space and can be hazardous in a small bathroom. If glass isn’t an option, a clear shower curtain will allow more light in.  Bifold and sliding shower doors can also be a great option for small bathrooms as these types of shower doors do not open out into the room.

Cupboards and storage, making the most of small spaces

The less clutter the better, when it comes to small bathroom designs. There are many storage design ideas for small bathrooms available, including sinks with integrated cupboards and drawers, and toilets with built-in toilet roll holders.

Towel rails and shelving, maximising space in small bathrooms

Avoid having anything that sticks out from the walls, particularly in narrow bathrooms. Hooks on the back of the door are a space-saving way to keep your towels and dressing gowns handy. If you don’t have a vanity unit in your bathroom, a ledge above the sink is a great place to keep your daily essentials, without taking up any floor space.

Bathroom safety

Avoid anything that could be a potential hazard when moving around in a small bathroom. Tight spaces can make sharp corners dangerous – if the corners of a vanity unit would get in the way, opt for a rounded style. Keep any wall-mounted fixtures at a safe height and look for tiles and flooring that won’t become too slippery when wet.

Colours for small bathrooms

Keep colours simple – too many paint colours or busy wallpaper will only make a small bathroom feel smaller and cluttered. Two colours work well together, one for the walls and another for accessories. You could choose an unusual accent colour to add decorative elements to your bathroom, allowing the room to feel sleek and open, without overpowering it.

Mirrors, creating the illusion of space in small bathrooms

When it comes to design ideas for small bathrooms – think mirrors. Use as many mirrors as possible in your small bathroom design. When light bounces off the reflective surface of a mirror it will create the illusion of a much bigger room. Oval mirrors can also help to make ceilings appear higher.

Small bathroom lighting

As much natural light as possible is important to create a bigger looking bathroom, so never block windows. Clever lighting can help visually enhance the space – uplighting or cove lighting can help create the impression of a higher ceiling and, if you have a narrow bathroom, illuminating one wall will also create the effect of a more open area. Don’t use drop or pendant lights, as they will make the room look even smaller.

Tiles for small bathroom designs

The use of pattern is a great tiling idea for small bathrooms, as it will give the illusion that the room is larger. Bigger floor tiles will also help to open up the room, with thin (and fewer) grout lines giving the appearance of more floor space.

Our sister company, UK Tiles Direct has a fabulous range of tiling ideas for small bathrooms. The beautiful collection of ceramic, natural stone and coloured glass mosaic tiles are ideal for small bathroom walls and floors. And the stunning selection of large format and ultra-thin porcelain wall and floor tiles create a wonderfully spacious and seamless floor. Available in plain, pattern, wood and stone effect digitally printed finishes, these gorgeous tiles are the perfect choice for a luxury small bathroom.

At Room H2o, our experts are happy to help with all aspects of your small bathroom design. We provide free, no-hassle bathroom, shower and wet room design and installation, as well as tiling contractors, for any domestic or commercial project.

Contact our Dorset bathroom design team on 01929 551963 or email wareham@roomh2o.co.uk

Top Bathroom Design Tips & Advice

With so many amazing design possibilities, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when it comes to planning a new bathroom. While style and functionality are, of course, very important, there are a whole host of other things you should consider to really make sure you’re getting the bathroom of your dreams. Here, we share some of our bathroom planning advice with you.

Contemporary bathroom design image using Virtual Worlds software

How you use your bathroom

Consider who will be using your bathroom and the needs they may have. If it’s to be the main family bathroom you’ll need a space that’s both child and adult friendly, and maybe even suitable for the elderly. (Click here to read an article about bathrooms for the elderly.) An en-suite, on the other hand, may only be used by a couple of people, so can be more adult focused.

Essential bathroom features

Think about the habits of the people using your bathroom, these can differ depending on who lives in the home. For example, a couple may favour a shower over a bath, in which case you could consider having no bath at all and creating a wetroom or an indulgent shower. With our fabulous made-to-measure shower enclosures and made-to-measure trays you can create the ultimate shower experience in any space.

A family with small children, however, will almost certainly use a bath more. You could have a bath with a shower screen or, if room allows, a bath and a separate shower enclosure. A floor-level shower can be installed practically anywhere and is the perfect choice for family bathrooms, as there’s less of a trip hazard.

Bathroom décor & flooring ideas

Tiles are the perfect choice for a bathroom floor, and a great way to add colour, pattern or texture. Large porcelain wall and floor tiles, like those from Porcel-Thin, are highly stylish and with so many patterns and effects available, there’s one to suit any interior design theme.

Advances in technology have made it possible to produce exceptionally realistic stone effect porcelain tiles, which are a fabulous and extremely hardwearing alternative to the real thing. While real stone is suitable for bathrooms, it can be very expensive and requires a lot of care. With a range of fantastic ultra-thin and large format porcelain wall and floor tiles, you can easily create the stunning effect of natural stone.

Wood effect tiles also open up opportunities for timber to be featured in a bathroom, as real wood isn’t usually suitable in wet areas. With the feel and detailing of the real thing, these porcelain tiles look fabulous on both walls and floors.

Wood effect porcelain tiles in a bathroom

Bathroom & wetroom heating & ventilation

The best way to prevent mould and damp is by controlling moisture with a suitable extractor fan. Make sure it’s positioned somewhere it can quickly and efficiently remove airborne moisture. This will also help to dry the floor and reduce the risk of slipping.

If the bathroom is going to be used by all the family, it’s a good idea to have a towel radiator that’s big enough to dry everyone’s towels. And fitting electric underfloor heating is the ideal solution for a continuous warm environment. Electric underfloor heating works brilliantly with large, thin porcelain tiles, keeping them lovely and warm underfoot and allowing for quick drying.

Storage solutions for every bathroom

Whatever the size of your bathroom, storage space is a must. Whether it’s for toiletries and accessories, linen and towels or children’s toys, there are some fantastic bathroom storage solutions available. Sinks set into a unit with cupboards and drawers are great for keeping everything organised and leaving your bathroom clutter free.

Bathroom storage ideas

Making the most of awkward bathroom spaces

Made-to-measure shower enclosures and shower trays open up a world of possibilities in even the smallest and most awkward of spaces. Sometimes a full-size shower isn’t always viable, perhaps in a small en-suite or a loft conversion, but a bespoke shower enclosure or screen can be manufactured to the exact height and angle you have available. You can even have a stylish end of bath shower enclosure made to measure, to utilise any redundant floor space you may have between the end of your bath and the wall.

Bathroom & wet room design advice

Seeking bathroom design advice can really help you get the absolute best out of your bathroom. Many people simply replace an old bathroom suite with a new one, without considering any other options they may have. With state-of-the-art bathroom design software, bathroom specialists can offer virtual bathroom design services, to help you make the most of the space you have and design a bathroom that’s perfect for you and your needs.

Let our team of specialist designers help you create the bathroom you desire. Contact our Dorset bathroom design team on 01929 551963 or email wareham@roomh2o.co.uk

Designing a Wet Room – 5 things that you should consider

A wet room will turn any bath or shower room into a luxurious and practical space. If you are planning your own wet room project there are some important factors that should be considered. Here is Room H2o?s guide to five important wet room planning considerations.

Wet room drainage

When creating a wetroom the shower area and surrounding floor are formed as one continuous surface.  Consequently a wet room drain will often be positioned lower than drain of shower tray or bath and for this reason the location of the shower waste and drain pipe should be carefully considered.  There must be adequate space below the wet room floor in order to achieve a fall of 1:40 on the drainage waste pipe and when constructing a wet room on top of a suspended floor the position of the floor joists must be considered so that they do not impact on the waste position.

Selecting the correct wet room kit and floor former

There are many different types of wetroom formers (sometimes referred to as wet room shower trays) available on the market so it is important to select a former and wet room tanking kit suitable for your particular application.  The choice of wet room floor former will be dictated by the substrate, commonly solid concrete or suspended wooden joists, and the waterproof tanking membrane should be suitable for the floor and wall material, usually stone or lightweight stud construction.

Wet room shower screens and shower head position

In a wet room the choice of shower screen and shower head position should be carefully considered.  If you are planning an open wet room without a shower screen, or alternatively a small wet room where space may preclude the use of a screen, the wet floor former will need to be large enough to collect and channel the water to the wet room drain.

Commonly a frameless glass wet room screen or shower enclosure is installed to contain the water within the wet area.  If a fixed walk-in shower screen is used ensure that it is large enough to contain water deflected from the body when showering and that the shower head is either ceiling mounted and away from the open end of the screen or wall mounted adjacent to the shower screen.  A walk-in shower screen should only be considered a water deflector and therefore some degree of moister will escape into the outer wet room.

A full frameless shower enclosure can look stunning and will contain the moisture within the wet floor area.  It is still advisable to position the shower head and drain away from the shower door if at all possible as this will help to clear the water and minimise transfer to the outer bathroom floor.

Wet room flooring

It is possible to install a low maintenance vinyl floor in a wet room, however tiles are most commonly used for wet room flooring.  Vinyl floors provide slip resistance and are easy to clean, however they are often found in commercial applications and can look a little industrial.

When selecting wet room floor tiles slip resistance is an important consideration, a suitable tile should carry a slip resistance rating of R11 or R12 and a matt finish is worth considering.  Within the area of the wet room floor former the tiles have to be shaped to create the fall to the drain gully. Mosaic tiles will generally be slightly easier to lay and provide a greater degree of slip resistance, however they require more grouting and maintenance.  Larger format tiles with narrower grout lines will be easier to keep clean and allow water to drain more easily than mosaics.

If you are using a standard cement based grout ensure that it is flexible, suitable for wet rooms and of high quality, do not be tempted to cut costs here. However it should be noted that cement based grout is NOT waterproof and should only be considered water resistant.  For a completely water proof solution an epoxy based grout should be used.  Professional installation is recommended as epoxy based grout is hard to apply making a high quality finish difficult to achieve.

Maintaining your wet room

Drying the wet room floor with a squeegee after showering will prevent water soaking into cement based grouts, which can cause it to degrade and crack.  In hard water areas calcium deposits can form on cement grouts and this can be difficult to clean.  On a final note, natural stone wet room floors should be cleaned and sealed regularly to maintain its condition and prevent saturation.

If you are considering installing a wet room and would like some professional assistance Room H2o would like to help.  Let us inspire you, please contact us to discuss your wet room design ideas.