Time For A Change?
and Party Wall interfaces might need inspection.
INTERIORS
• Investment view: If resale and budget are priorities, a high-quality shower enclosure with a modern tray or a flush-fit walk-in offers the best ROI. If you want a long- term, high-end upgrade and are prepared to fund proper waterproofing and ventilation, a wet room is a standout selling point, but only if installed correctly.
Refurbishing a tired 1970’S or 1980s bathroom Refurbishing a tired 1970’s or 1980s bathroom is a great opportunity to add modern comfort and real value to your home. Before choosing fixtures or finishes, think about three priorities: durability, waterproofing/ventilation, and how the change will affect the property’s resale appeal. Below is a practical, design-conscious guide to choosing between a shower and a wet room, current style directions, and smart choices for flooring and colour.
Practical considerations before you start
• Check structural and services: Older 1980s houses may have timber floors, narrow joists or concealed pipe runs. Verify whether floor strengthening, new drainage runs or relocation of waste pipes are needed. • Waterproofing & ventilation: Use a certified tanking system or liquid waterproof membrane for wet rooms; mosaic or large-format tiles must be laid over a properly prepared substrate. Install mechanical extract ventilation rated to current Building Regulations (Part F) and ensure all electrical work complies with Part P. • Heating: Underfloor heating is highly compatible with tiled floors and is a strong selling point; it improves comfort and reduces condensation. • Accessibility & longevity: Consider future-proofing (level access, grab rails, wider doorways) which can broaden appeal for downsizers or older buyers.
Shower versus wet room - the right investment
• Shower enclosure (walk-in or framed): Best balance of cost, flexibility and resale appeal.A high-quality walk-in or quadrant enclosure modernises the space, conserves floor area, and is relatively straightforward to install. Easy to retrofit into existing layouts with standard drainage and minimal structural alterations. • Wet room:A bold, premium choice that delivers a sleek, accessible, spa-like result. Best when you can rework drainage and floor build-up (fall to drain) and are prepared to invest in professional tanking and ventilation.Wet rooms increase perceived space and are excellent for accessibility (no thresholds), but they cost more and require meticulous waterproofing to avoid damp issues, especially important in older 1980s constructions where floor joists
Contemporary styles that suit 1970’s / 1980s homes
• Minimal/Scandi: Clean lines, neutral palettes, matte white sanitaryware, slim black or chrome hardware, timber accents.Works well to modernise boxy 1980s layouts.
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