The shower tray is a crucial component of your bathroom, providing a sturdy base for your shower enclosure and influencing the overall look and functionality of your space.
With various shapes, materials, and styles available, choosing the right shower tray can be overwhelming. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the perfect shower tray for your bathroom:
1. Determine the Shape and Size
The first step in choosing a shower tray is to ensure it fits your bathroom layout and complements your shower enclosure.
Common Shapes:
- Square: A versatile and space-saving option suitable for most bathrooms.
- Rectangular: Ideal for larger bathrooms, offering more space for a luxurious shower experience.
- Quadrant: Designed for corner installations, with a curved front that saves space.
- D-Shape: A combination of quadrant and rectangular shapes, offering a modern look with a curved front.
- Offset Quadrant: Similar to a quadrant but with one side longer, providing extra room while saving space.
Sizing:
- Measure the available space in your bathroom carefully before selecting a tray. Standard sizes range from 700mm to 1700mm, but custom sizes are also available.
- Consider the height of the tray, especially if you prefer a flush or low-profile design.
2. Choose the Right Material
The material of the shower tray affects its durability, appearance, and maintenance. Common materials include:
- Acrylic:
- Lightweight and affordable.
- Warm underfoot, making it comfortable to use.
- Easy to clean and resistant to stains.
- May not be as durable as other materials over time.
- Stone Resin:
- Made from a mixture of stone and resin for strength and durability.
- Offers a sleek, modern look with a low-profile design.
- Heavier and more expensive than acrylic but more robust and long-lasting.
- Ceramic:
- Traditional and highly durable.
- Scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
- Heavier and less versatile in terms of shapes and sizes compared to acrylic or stone resin.
- Steel:
- Extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear.
- Provides a sleek, minimalist look.
- Can be cold underfoot and more expensive than other options.
3. Consider the Height
Shower trays come in various heights to suit different preferences and installation requirements.
- Low-Profile Trays: Sleek and modern, they sit almost flush with the floor, creating a seamless look. Ideal for contemporary bathrooms or if you want easy accessibility.
- Raised Trays: Elevated trays are useful if your plumbing requires more space underneath for drainage pipes. They are better suited for bathrooms where floor excavation is not possible.
4. Check Drainage Compatibility
Ensure the shower tray is compatible with your plumbing setup and drainage system.
- Drain Location: Check where the drain hole is positioned and ensure it aligns with your existing plumbing.
- Fast-Flow Drains: Look for trays designed with fast-flow drains to prevent water pooling during use.
5. Prioritize Anti-Slip Features
Safety is an important consideration, especially for households with children or elderly individuals.
- Look for trays with built-in anti-slip surfaces or coatings to reduce the risk of slipping.
- Some materials, like stone resin, naturally provide better grip compared to smooth acrylic.
6. Match Your Bathroom Aesthetic
The shower tray should complement the overall style of your bathroom.
- Color Options: While white is the most common color, modern designs offer trays in black, grey, or other finishes to match contemporary aesthetics.
- Texture: Some trays have textured finishes that add a luxurious feel while enhancing grip.
7. Consider Installation Requirements
The ease of installation can vary depending on the tray’s material, size, and design.
- Professional Installation: Heavier materials like stone resin and ceramic may require professional installation due to their weight and precise leveling needs.
- DIY-Friendly Options: Lightweight acrylic trays are easier to handle and install for those with basic DIY skills.
8. Budget and Warranty
Shower trays are available at a range of price points, so consider your budget while ensuring quality.
- Acrylic: Most budget-friendly but may require replacement sooner than stone resin or ceramic.
- Stone Resin or Steel: Mid to high-end options that provide durability and longevity.
- Warranty: Look for a product with a solid warranty (typically 5–10 years), as this reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in its quality.
9. Accessibility Needs
If accessibility is a concern, consider the following:
- Walk-In Showers: Pair a low-profile tray with a frameless or open shower enclosure for easy access.
- Customizable Designs: Some manufacturers offer trays designed specifically for those with mobility challenges.
10. Think About Future Maintenance
Choose a tray that’s easy to clean and maintain:
- Smooth Surfaces: Trays with non-porous surfaces resist dirt and grime buildup, making cleaning easier.
- Stain Resistance: Some materials, like ceramic and high-quality acrylic, are naturally resistant to stains.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shower tray involves balancing practical considerations like size, material, and drainage with aesthetic and functional preferences. By carefully evaluating your bathroom’s layout, your personal needs, and your budget, you can find a shower tray that not only enhances your bathroom’s style but also provides years of reliable use.