Frequenty Asked Questions
- Can I get VAT relief on an accessible or mobility bathroom?
Yes, if you qualify. If you have a long-term illness or disability that affects everyday life, you won't pay VAT on the products or the installation when we adapt, extend or fit a bathroom to help with your condition. That could mean fitting a walk-in shower or adapted bath, putting in a ground-floor bathroom, or adding grab rails. Being older isn't enough on its own, and a general bathroom upgrade doesn't qualify. There's nothing to claim back afterwards: you just complete our [VAT relief form] before the work starts, and the VAT is left off your bill. Not sure whether you qualify? Give our team a call on 0114 287 8030.
- How do I choose a good bathroom installer?
Get at least three written, itemised quotes, and be wary of any that are far cheaper than the rest. Look at reviews and photos of the installer's past work, and ask for references. Check that they have public liability insurance. Make sure any gas work will be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer and any electrics by a qualified electrician. Before work starts, agree a written contract that covers the scope of the job, the price, the timings and the payment schedule, and don't pay the whole amount upfront. Also ask what guarantee you'll get on the workmanship. Pryor Bathrooms is a Which? Trusted Trader.
- What's the difference between a wet room and a walk-in shower?
A walk-in shower has a low shower tray with one or two glass screens, so the water stays in the shower area. In a wet room, the whole room is waterproofed (this is called "tanking") and the floor slopes gently towards a drain, so there's no tray at all. Wet rooms give completely step-free access, which makes them ideal for wheelchair users and anyone with limited mobility. They do cost more and take longer to fit, because of the waterproofing and the reshaped floor. Wet rooms can be fitted upstairs too, including on timber floors, as long as the floor is properly prepared and waterproofed.
- What features make a bathroom easier for older or disabled people?
The most useful changes are:
- a level-access shower with no step to climb
- grab rails fixed firmly into the wall
- a fold-down shower seat
- a comfort-height toilet, which is usually around 450–480mm to the seat\
- a thermostatic shower to prevent scalding
- non-slip flooring
- lever taps that are easy to turn
- How can I make a small bathroom feel bigger?
The tricks that work best are:
- wall-hung vanity units and toilets, so you can see more floor
- large mirrors to bounce light around
- light, neutral colours
- large-format tiles, with the same tile on the walls and floor
- a clear, frameless glass screen instead of a shower curtain
good layered lighting - tall or recessed storage to keep surfaces clear