A safe new alternative to engineered stone for wet areas

In recent years, engineered stone has gained popularity in the world of home design and renovation. Its stunning appearance, durability, and versatility have made it a favoured choice for various applications, from kitchen countertops to bathroom vanities. However, an alarming health risk has emerged within the industry, leading experts and homeowners alike to seek safer alternatives.

The use of engineered stone, laden with crystalline silica, has led to a concerning surge in health problems, particularly respiratory issues, akin to the asbestos crisis of the past. Workers exposed to the dust generated during the fabrication and installation of engineered stone products are at risk of developing silicosis, a debilitating and potentially fatal lung disease.

Wet Area Solutions recognised the need for a safer alternative and took a pioneering step by introducing acrylic solid surface shower bases, vanity tops, and shower niches that emulate the look and feel of stone but without the health risks.

Solid surface is non-porous, hygienic, easy to clean and durable, making it the perfect safe solution for bathrooms. An additional and unique feature of solid surface is the seamless joins that can be integrated with no gaps for water to collect or bacteria to grow.

"We call it the safe alternative to engineered stone, and that's what it is,” says Wet Area Solutions’ Carole Davis. 

One of the key advantages of Wet Area Solutions' products is their versatility in design and customisation. The ability to manufacture custom pieces allows homeowners and designers to create tailored wet areas that meet their specific needs and aesthetic preferences.  Customisation extends to size as well as colour, enabling complete versatility of design.

Wet Area Solutions' products provide the freedom to contrast and create striking design combinations. Whether it's pairing a marble-look shower base with marbled wall tiles or opting for a monochromatic theme, the possibilities are endless. The ability to choose from a palette of 12 colours, including classic white, ensures these products seamlessly integrate into various design schemes.

Installation is another area where Wet Area Solutions excels. Their shower bases are designed to be easily glued down on a flat, level surface and do not need to be checked in, streamlining the installation process. Plumbers can handle the waste connection, and the outlet placement can be tailored to fit existing plumbing, making these products ideal for renovations where moving plumbing is impractical.

The shower bases are remarkably thin, with a thickness of just 12mm and an additional 10mm for the lip. “The bases can be made with various lip styles on any or all sides, ensuring they will easily integrate into any bathroom layout,” says Carole. This slim profile not only looks sleek but also offers practical advantages in terms of ease of access.

While the company provides the shower base, niche and vanity top in the desired colour and size, homeowners can choose their cabinetry, giving them complete control over the final look of their bathroom. 

When it comes to acrylic vanity bowls, homeowners can choose between top-mounted or under-mounted bowls, and position them anywhere along the vanity top, adding yet another layer of customisation. The shower niches, too, are highly customisable, with both a full-width wall installation or a compact square box available, seamlessly fitting into your design scheme.

Wet Area Solutions sources its solid surface from U.S. company Meganite via Forest One, both reputable companies that share a commitment to safety and quality.  Meganite's solid surface is free from the harmful crystalline silica found in engineered stone, ensuring the safety of both manufacturers and installers.

In a world where health and safety are paramount concerns, Wet Area Solutions' innovative approach to wet area design offers homeowners and designers peace of mind. Its products not only replicate the aesthetics of stone but also provide the customisation options and ease of installation that modern bathrooms demand. As concerns over crystalline silica continue to grow, it's reassuring to know that a safer alternative exists.

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