A shower tray is a preformed tray that serves as the base of the shower. It is made using strong and durable materials that are available in different shapes and sizes. Shower trays are used in walk-in showers, which are becoming a popular addition to many people’s bathrooms. Walk-in showers are easy to keep clean, take up less room and can include handle bars and seating to assist the elderly.
How to Choose a Shower Tray Based on Material
Whether choosing to update your bathroom or remodeling it in its entirety, there are a variety of materials to choose from that will match your bathroom decor. These bathroom shower tray materials are durable and provide a scratch and stain resistant surface. Also be sure that the resin shower tray is slip-resistant and easy to keep clean. With these factors in mind, you can expect to find fitting shower trays made from the following materials:
- Acrylic
- Stone Resin
- Solid Steel
- Porcelain
- Marble Stone
- Marble Mosaic
Of course, low profile shower trays made from stone, mosaic or porcelain are most attractive, but consider how your walk-in shower will be used. These attractive surfaces can become slippery for children and seniors, especially when wet or covered in soap. For this reason, acrylic is the most common and popular choice for quadrant shower trays, followed by resin. Acrylic surfaces are slip-resistant and easy to clean, making them a practical choice for families and busy bathrooms.
How to Choose a Walk In Shower Tray Based on Shape
Not only is the material of your shower tray an important factor, but so is the shape. The shape of your wet room shower tray will give you the overall look and design of your walk-in shower, so consider this carefully. If remodeling your bathroom, you can start from scratch using a brand new shape and size. Otherwise, you will have to choose which shape will fit comfortably in the available space. You can expect to find acrylic shower trays in the following shapes:
- Square
- Pentangle
- Rectangle
- Quadrant
- Offset Quadrant
- Walk In
Most shapes are designed to fit into corners or alcoves of the bathroom, allowing for more bathroom space. If you’re looking to maximize your showering space however, consider purchasing a ceramic shower tray that’s in the shape of a rectangle, offset quadrant or walk in. These shapes allow for more room in the shower, but will also take up more floor space.
How to Install a Shower Tray
Shower trays can be installed yourself, but it’s a project that involves careful attention. You want to be sure that a waterproof seal is created around the edges, as well as that the large shower tray is on even flooring. Make sure that you install the shower tray before tiling the walls of the shower, as this allows for a tighter and more secure fit.
Shower trays come in a variety of sizes, so measure the dimensions of your shower floor before selecting a rectangular shower tray. Also consider the shape and materials that your shower tray will be made of. Shower trays are designed to fit on a flat sub-floor, adding to the ease of installation. Using a level, make sure that your concrete, wood or plywood sub-floor is even. If not, use a self-leveling product to even out the floor.
The shower tray should be positioned correctly, paying close attention to the position of the drain. If the drain is not in the proper location, it’s best to have it relocated, as this is cheaper than having a custom shower tray made. Line up the components so that the drain fittings are positioned properly.
Remove the drain cap and put plumber’s putty along the bottom of the drain cap, then seal it back in place. This will prevent water from getting underneath the tray. To create a waterproof lining, pour 2 inches of mortar into the pan and allow it to dry. Then place a waterproof lining made of PVC or CPE. Cover the lining with another layer of mortar.
Cheap shower trays are great ways to add to the charm and brilliance of your bathroom. Both functional and attractive, shower trays can transform your existing walk-in shower in one easy step. Of course, always keep in mind how often you utilize your shower and if any children or elderly will be using it. While you want your standard shower tray to look stunning, you also want it to be easy to care for, as well as have an anti-slip surface for added safety.
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