Whether you’re replacing your bath for a luxury walk-in shower, installing a separate shower unit, or looking to completely revamp your bathroom, a well-fitted shower tray can help bring your design together. This article will guide you through the different shower trays available, how to install a shower tray correctly, and seal it for a professional finish. 

Different Types of Shower Trays

There are several types of shower trays, characterised by their material, colour, shape, and drain positioning. The most popular shower tray options include:

Square Shower Trays

These are a common choice and fit neatly into the corner of many bathrooms. They offer plenty of room and typically have a central drain, such as the Schluter KERDI-SHOWER-TT or the JACKOBOARD Aqua Flat Shower Element.

Rectangular Shower Trays

Long and narrow, rectangular shower trays offer a range of sizes, making them ideal for limited spaces or replacing large bathtubs. Popular brands include JACKOBOARD Aqua Flat Shower Element with Offset Drain Large and wedi Fundo Primo Shower Tray.

Quadrant Shower Trays

Quadrant shower trays, like the JACKOBOARD Aqua Quadrant Shower Element, are a great space-saving shower tray option, as they fit tightly into the corner. It also has a curved front edge to suit curved shower doors. 

Sloped Shower Tray

Most shower trays slope to the central or off-centre drain point. Sloped shower trays, like the Schluter KERDI-SHOWER-LTS Sloped Tray for Linear Drain Long Side and Schluter KERDI-SHOWER-LTS Square Sloped, offer a sleek and modern look, with a gentle slope that directs water to a drain along the edge of the tray. 

Pentagon Shower Trays

If you’re tackling an awkward space or looking for a unique shower tray design, pentagon shower trays like the Schluter KERDI-Shower-TT Sloped Tray provide a functional and stylish solution. 

Tiled Shower Trays

Tiled shower trays are waterproof tray bases that function like a standard shower tray but are designed to be tiled, creating a unique, seamless pattern and a level-access shower.

Low-Profile vs Raised Shower Trays

As the name suggests, a low-profile shower tray has a low edge rather than raised sides. Low-profiles fit into the floor and offer a more modern and subtle look with easy, walk-in access. However, they may require modifications to the floor or drainage system. Raised shower trays sit on the floor and have a raised edge. They are easier to install as the tray fits over the plumbing. 

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How To Fit a Shower Tray Yourself

Our installation specialists have combined their expertise to create a step-by-step guide for fitting your shower tray correctly the first time. 

Shower Tray Installation Steps

1. Pick the right tray size and type

Measure the area where your shower tray will sit, and ensure your new shower tray fits snugly into the space. You also need to align the drain with your plumbing to ensure water is removed correctly. 

2. Check your flooring

You need the substrate where you’re installing the shower tray to be stable and level. If you are working with timber joists, old hardwood floors, or even concrete, you may need to reinforce the area. 

3. Start with a dry fit

Position your shower tray in place and mark the perimeter of the tray and the drainage hole with a pencil to ensure everything lines up.  Use a spirit level to ensure the edges are straight when marking the outline, and remember to consider any clearance required for tiles or shower screen trim you intend to use. 

Read more: Your Guide to Shower Screens and Shower Screen Trims

4. Align your waste pipe

Check that the position of your shower drain aligns with your existing plumbing and waste line. Remember, your outlet pipe needs an adequate fall to ensure water drains efficiently. If adjustments are needed, now is the time to make them. 

Read More: Different Types of Shower Drains

5. Support your tray base

For solid surfaces such as concrete, mix and spread a layer of mortar (1 part sand to 5 parts cement) onto the floor’s surface. This will help strengthen your tray and create a smooth base for installation. 

For suspended or timber floors, you may need to replace this section of the floor or use a marine-ply material or timber floor attachments like the Schluter KERDI-Line-G3 Installation Accessory to provide reinforcement. 

6. Install your shower tray

You can opt to use an adhesive at this point. If you do, apply a thin layer to the back of the shower tray and floor surface. Place the shower tray in position and gently press it into place. Use the spirit level to ensure it’s level and allow the mortar and/or adhesive to fully dry. 

7. Test the drainage

Using a bucket of water, slowly pour the water across your shower tray to ensure it falls in the right direction of the shower drain and flows into your plumbing with no leaks. 

8. Tile, trim and edge 

Once the shower tray is secured in place, tile and grout the surrounding walls and floor if this is the desired look. Use an appropriate tile trim to protect your tiles and shower tray, and neaten exposed tile edges.

Read More: Best Bathroom Fittings for Tiled Bathrooms, How to Tile a Niche in a Shower, How to Make Exposed Tile Edges Look Finished, and 5 Different Types of Tile Trim for a Bathroom.

9. Silicone and seal to finish

Once your tile grout has dried and cured, apply a continuous silicone seal around the edge of the shower tray. Using a silicone such as the Mapei Mapesil AC Mould-Resistant Silicone, apply this along the line where the tray meets the tile or trim. This is a crucial step for waterproofing your shower tray installation.

10. Wipe down and enjoy

Using soapy water and a sponge, wipe down your shower tray, tiles, and floors to remove any dust or debris. 

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How To Seal a Shower Tray

The sealant around your shower tray is one of the most essential elements when installing a shower tray. It’s crucial that it’s done correctly. When sealing a shower tray, always use a high-quality silicone sealant, ideally with mould-resistant properties. 

Make sure the area is clean and dry.  Using a steady hand or sealant gun, apply a continuous line of sealant along the top edge and sides of the shower tray, between the tray and the wall. Smooth the sealant by wiping it with your finger or a cloth, and apply gentle pressure to create a clean join. Leave it for at least 24 hours for it to fully dry and cure. 

If you’re unsure which shower tray is right for your bathroom renovation or need some expert advice on fitting your shower tray correctly, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of experts can talk you through the different types of shower trays and the best solutions for a seamless and professional installation.