Choosing the correct Shower Tray - A comprehensive Guide

When planning or revamping a bathroom, selecting the right shower tray is key. It not only forms the base of your shower but also ensures effective drainage and provides a secure surface. With various shapes, sizes, and accessories on the market, finding the perfect shower tray might feel daunting. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision.

1. Shower Tray Shapes

Different shower tray shapes can help you make the most of your bathroom layout.

• Square Trays: Popular and versatile, square trays are suitable for corner or alcove installation. They come in sizes like 700mm x 700mm and up, accommodating both smaller and larger spaces.
• Rectangular Trays: Rectangular options offer a wider showering area, perfect for a luxurious feel if your bathroom has the floor space. Sizes range from 800mm x 1000mm to 800mm x 1700mm.
• Quadrant Trays: For a modern look that also saves space, quadrant trays (rounded on one side) fit well in corners, making them ideal for compact bathrooms.
• Pentagon and D-Shape Trays: With unique shapes, pentagon and D-shape trays add a stylish touch. Pentagon trays fit well in tight corners with an angular design, while D-shape trays feature a rounded front edge.

2. Selecting the Right Size

After choosing a shape, you’ll need to decide on a size that suits your space.

• Space Availability: Measure the area precisely, accounting for any nearby furniture or fittings and ensuring doors can open freely if there’s an enclosure.
• Comfort and Accessibility: A larger tray provides extra room, making it more comfortable. Ensure easy entry, especially if elderly or mobility-challenged people will be using it.
• Waste Position: Confirm that the waste location on the tray aligns with your plumbing layout since some trays have an offset waste hole rather than a central one.

3. Tray Material Options

Shower trays come in various materials, each offering distinct advantages:

• Acrylic: Affordable and lightweight, acrylic trays are great for DIY installations. They’re soft on the feet but not as durable as other options.
• Stone Resin: Heavy and long-lasting, stone resin trays give a sturdy feel and a high-end appearance, resistant to scratches and stains.
• Ceramic: Durable and easy to maintain, ceramic trays are also heavier and may require professional installation for best results.

4. Accessories to Enhance Functionality

Certain accessories make your shower tray more adaptable and user-friendly.

• Riser Kits: Riser kits lift the tray above the floor, offering flexibility in plumbing configurations, especially if you need to accommodate waste pipe positioning on solid floors. These kits usually include adjustable legs and side panels for a finished look.
• Waste Systems: Efficient waste systems ensure proper drainage, preventing water accumulation. High-flow wastes work best with powerful showers, handling greater water volume. Look for easy-to-clean options, like quick-release waste caps.
• Anti-Slip Finishes: Trays with anti-slip coatings add extra safety, especially valuable in family bathrooms where children or elderly individuals might need additional stability.
• Upstands or Sealing Kits: Some trays come with raised edges (upstands) that enhance water resistance. For trays without this feature, a sealing kit helps achieve a waterproof finish.

5. Installation and Maintenance Tips

Correct installation and routine maintenance are essential to keep your shower tray in top condition.

• Professional Installation: Although many trays are designed for easy installation, a professional plumber can ensure it’s correctly positioned and sealed, especially for heavier options like stone resin or ceramic.
• Regular Cleaning: Use non-abrasive cleaners on your tray to avoid damaging the finish, particularly on acrylic or anti-slip surfaces.
• Leak Checks: Periodically inspect sealant edges to catch any signs of leaks, preventing water damage to your bathroom floor.

6. Aesthetic Factors

Finally, think about how your shower tray will complement your bathroom’s look. Choose a color that coordinates with your bathroom theme—white is common, but black and grey are great for a modern touch. For a minimalist look, opt for a low-profile tray that sits almost level with the floor, creating a sleek, walk-in shower effect.

Conclusion

The right shower tray combines suitable dimensions, shape, materials, and accessories to fit your bathroom and your lifestyle. Measure carefully, think about your preferred style and functionality, and consider any extra accessories for the perfect finish. A well-chosen shower tray will provide a stylish, functional foundation for an excellent shower experience.

Brand New Bathrooms has a huge range of Shower Trays and Shower Tray Accessories, so why not check them out today?