When it comes to modern home design, few decisions are as exciting—and important—as planning your bathroom layout. Bathrooms are no longer just functional spaces. They have evolved into spa-like sanctuaries where homeowners want comfort, convenience, and visual appeal. As such, one of the hottest debates among renovators today is the wet room vs. traditional bathroom choice.
Do you stick with a classic design? Or do you embrace the open-concept luxury of a fully waterproof wet room? At JG Contracting, we help homeowners across the Greater Toronto Area make these decisions every day. With our deep expertise in bathroom remodels, flooring, painting, and tile installations, we ensure every renovation reflects your personal style—without sacrificing practicality.
Before you start knocking down walls or choosing tile samples, let’s dive into the pros, cons, and best-use scenarios for both wet rooms and traditional bathrooms. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the right fit for your home, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
What Is a Wet Room?
A wet room is a fully waterproofed bathroom with no separation between the shower and the rest of the space. There’s no shower tray, and the floor gently slopes toward a central drain. Often, the shower area is open, although some wet rooms include a single glass panel for splash protection.
Unlike traditional bathrooms, wet rooms embrace an open layout that maximizes floor space and emphasizes minimalism. These bathrooms are often finished with seamless tiling and contemporary fixtures, creating a clean, modern vibe.
What Is a Traditional Bathroom?
Traditional bathrooms follow a more compartmentalized design. The shower or bathtub is separated from the rest of the space—usually by a curtain, enclosure, or built-in wall. Flooring and walls may not be completely waterproofed, and plumbing fixtures are typically installed with structural partitions.
Traditional bathrooms can range from vintage styles with clawfoot tubs and pedestal sinks to transitional designs that blend classic charm with modern upgrades.
Space and Layout: How Each Option Performs
One of the biggest considerations when deciding between a wet room and a traditional bathroom is space. Wet rooms work particularly well in smaller bathrooms, where removing barriers can make the room feel larger. The open design creates a seamless flow and eliminates the need for bulky enclosures or thresholds.
However, wet rooms require professional waterproofing. Improper slope or drainage design can cause puddles or leaks. That’s where our expertise at JG Contracting proves invaluable. We ensure every layer—from subfloor prep to tile sealing—is completed to perfection, keeping your space dry and damage-free.
Traditional bathrooms, on the other hand, provide greater flexibility in layout. You can incorporate tubs, separate showers, and custom vanities without worrying as much about water control. Families often appreciate this defined structure, especially if they have young children or prefer bathing over showering.
Style and Aesthetic Appeal
There’s no doubt about it—wet rooms deliver a sleek, high-end appearance. Their open-plan nature lends itself to ultra-modern design. With floor-to-ceiling tile and minimalist fixtures, the space feels luxurious and spa-like. If you’re drawn to clean lines and open sightlines, a wet room could be your dream come true.
Traditional bathrooms offer a more versatile design canvas. From farmhouse charm to ornate Victorian aesthetics, you can customize every corner. If you love cabinetry, unique lighting, or stand-alone tubs, the traditional route may suit your taste better.
At JG Contracting, we specialize in bringing your vision to life—whether that’s a fully tiled wet room oasis or a classically styled bath retreat.
Maintenance and Cleaning Wet Room or Traditional Bathroom
This is where wet rooms shine. Without barriers, nooks, or heavy glass panels, wet rooms are incredibly easy to clean. With proper slope and drainage, water flows smoothly, leaving little residue or standing moisture. You won’t spend weekends scrubbing soap scum from metal frames or door seals.
That said, wet rooms do require vigilant drying. Because everything is exposed, excess moisture can cause slipperiness or mold growth if not managed properly. Investing in excellent ventilation—something we prioritize in every JG Contracting project—can reduce that risk significantly.
Traditional bathrooms may demand more maintenance. Shower curtains need washing. Grout lines in separate enclosures require periodic cleaning. Additionally, enclosed spaces trap steam more easily, which can lead to faster mildew development if the fan system is underpowered.
Accessibility and Long-Term Use
If you’re renovating with future mobility in mind, wet rooms offer unbeatable accessibility. There are no thresholds to step over, and the open layout allows for wheelchair or walker access. This makes wet rooms ideal for aging in place or creating inclusive environments for guests and family members.
However, traditional bathrooms can also be modified for accessibility. Features like grab bars, walk-in tubs, and wider doorways can be added to enhance functionality. At JG Contracting, we frequently integrate accessibility upgrades into both wet room and traditional designs, ensuring long-term safety and comfort.
Resale Value and Appeal to Buyers
Bathroom renovations often deliver excellent return on investment, especially when done right. But what do buyers think about wet rooms?
Wet rooms appeal to modern buyers, especially those who appreciate contemporary design or luxury finishes. However, families with young children may prefer a bathtub. That’s why homeowners sometimes opt for a hybrid solution: a wet room-style shower paired with a freestanding tub elsewhere in the home.
Traditional bathrooms, on the other hand, offer broader appeal. Buyers often expect at least one bathtub in a family home. So if resale is a top priority, consider the demographics of your neighborhood and the preferences of likely buyers.
At JG Contracting, we guide you through these decisions with market insights and design recommendations tailored to your goals.
Wet Room Installation and Cost Considerations
Wet rooms typically cost more to install than traditional bathrooms. The waterproofing process is intensive. Every surface must be sealed with membranes, and floor levels must be adjusted to ensure correct drainage. Depending on your existing structure, this can require structural modifications.
Still, the durability and long-term savings on maintenance may offset those upfront costs. Wet rooms use fewer materials—no need for enclosures or step-in tubs—which can help balance the budget.
Traditional bathrooms usually involve simpler plumbing and construction methods, which can reduce costs—particularly if you’re updating an existing space rather than starting from scratch.
No matter your choice, JG Contracting delivers precise execution, clear timelines, and transparent budgeting. We ensure you get maximum value and minimum stress.
Let’s Compare at a Glance
Here’s a brief comparison chart to highlight key differences between wet rooms and traditional bathrooms:
| Feature | Wet Room | Traditional Bathroom |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Open, barrier-free | Enclosed, compartmentalized |
| Best For | Small bathrooms, modern aesthetics | Families, varied styles, broader appeal |
| Accessibility | Excellent (wheelchair/walker friendly) | Good with modifications |
| Cleaning | Easier, fewer barriers | More cleaning for doors, curtains, grout |
| Installation Cost | Higher due to waterproofing requirements | Lower, especially in existing setups |
| Resale Appeal | Strong with modern buyers | Broad appeal, especially with bathtubs |
| Design Style | Sleek, minimalist | Versatile, customizable |
Which One Should You Choose, Wet Room or Traditional?
Choosing between a wet room and a traditional bathroom depends on your lifestyle, home layout, and future plans. If you crave a modern, minimalist look and need an open, accessible design, a wet room may be your ideal fit. If you value flexibility, warmth, and broader appeal, a traditional bathroom may better meet your needs.
Fortunately, you don’t have to make this decision alone.
Trust JG Contracting to Bring Your Vision to Life
At JG Contracting, we offer an extensive range of services throughout the Greater Toronto Area, including bathroom remodels, kitchen upgrades, flooring, tile installation, and interior painting. Whether you choose a contemporary wet room or a cozy traditional bathroom, we execute every renovation with craftsmanship, care, and precision.
We’ve built a reputation for superior quality, timely completion, and exceptional customer service. Our team is here to make the renovation process seamless and stress-free.
Get Your Complimentary Estimate Today
Transform your bathroom with a renovation tailored to your vision. Contact JG Contracting today for a free, no-obligation estimate—customized to meet your style, preferences, and needs.
📧 Email: jgcontractingyyz@gmail.com
📞 Call: 437-259-9632
Your dream bathroom is just one call—or click—away. Let’s make it a reality together.
