Which Shower Trays Are Best? Top Picks and Buying Advice
| Last updated Jul. 16, 2024 |
Let's Explore Key Factors for Choosing the Right Shower Tray
With a wide variety of shower trays available on the market, selecting the right one for your bathroom can be a daunting task.
Despite seeming like a minor addition, the sheer number of choices makes selecting the ideal shower tray far from straightforward!
This guide aims to provide all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision.
We'll explore everything from shapes and materials to sizes, care tips, costs, and advice on how to choose the best tray for your needs.
Let’s dive right in…
What Shapes Do Shower Trays Come In?
Shower trays come in various shapes to suit different spaces and styles. The most popular shapes are square, rectangular, and quadrant/offset quadrant.
For those seeking something unique, there are also less common shapes like D-shaped and pentagon trays.
The shape you choose will often depend on the space in your bathroom and the desired position of your shower.
Square Shower Trays
Square shower trays are ideal for small bathrooms as they do not take up much space but still provide a comfortable showering area.
Their versatile shape allows for installation in various locations, including a corner, an alcove, or against one wall, providing flexibility in placement.
Click Here to Shop Square Shower Tray.
Rectangular Shower Trays
Rectangular shower trays, much like square ones, can fit snugly into a corner, alcove, or along a wall.
Their elongated shape provides more room to shower comfortably and pairs well with sliding shower doors, saving space in your bathroom.
Click Here to Shop for a Rectangular Shower Tray.
Quadrant & Offset Quadrant Shower Trays
Ideal for corner placements, quadrant and offset quadrant trays save floor space with their curved front.
Quadrant trays have equal sides, while offset quadrants are longer on one side, offering more showering space.
Shop Quadrant or Offset Quadrant Shower Trays.
Other Shaped Trays
For those looking for something unique, there are pentagon and D-shaped shower trays available. These require matching enclosures to fit their distinct shapes.
Important
When selecting your shower tray, it's crucial to consider the position of the plug hole and whether it's designed for a left-hand or right-hand installation.
What Size Shower Tray Should I Choose?
Choosing the right size shower tray is essential for a perfect fit in your shower enclosure, preventing leaks and ensuring efficiency.
With a wide range of sizes and shapes available today, it's crucial to consider your bathroom space and where the enclosure will be placed.
Aligning the shower tray precisely with the enclosure maintains watertightness, eliminating gaps where water might escape.
Shower trays are designed in various configurations to suit different bathroom layouts, offering flexibility in design and installation.
Whether you need a compact tray for a small bathroom or a larger one for a spacious shower, selecting the correct size ensures your shower is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
What Shower Tray Height Should I Choose?
Shower trays come in a variety of heights, each offering unique benefits to suit different bathroom preferences.
Choosing the right height for your shower tray involves considering factors such as bathroom layout, plumbing needs, and personal preferences for accessibility and aesthetic appeal.
Let’s take a closer look at the options available:
Low Profile Shower Trays
Low-profile shower trays, also known as level-access trays, sit flush with the bathroom floor, ranging in height from 25mm to 45mm.
They offer a sleek, modern appearance and easy accessibility, especially for those with mobility challenges, eliminating steps or gaps.
Proper drainage is essential to prevent water buildup; ensuring a slope towards the drain or using a linear drainage system helps maintain effective water removal.
Installation typically involves accommodating plumbing under the floor, or alternative options like easy plumb trays should be considered to meet specific installation needs.
Standard Shower Trays
Standard shower trays, ranging in height from 50mm to 90mm, provide a traditional appearance without requiring riser legs.
Choose these if you prefer a slightly taller tray that offers more depth and easier installation, making them ideal for achieving a classic bathroom aesthetic.
Easy Plumb Shower Trays
Riser shower trays, also known as easy plumb or deep trays, elevate higher off the floor to accommodate plumbing underneath.
Ideal for installations on hard surfaces or where plumbing clearance is needed, these trays use sturdy legs and often include matching panels to conceal pipework.
Some can be quite tall, ranging from 120mm to over 200mm, chosen for specific aesthetic or functional requirements in bathroom setups.
Selecting the right shower tray height is crucial for both functionality and style in your bathroom.
Whether you favour a low-profile modern look, classic raised elegance, or convenient easy plumb installation, each option offers unique advantages.
Aligning your choice with your bathroom's specific needs and design goals ensures optimal performance and satisfaction with your shower enclosure setup.
Cost Considerations
Shower tray prices can vary significantly depending on their size, material, and specific features.
For instance, acrylic low-profile trays typically range from £100 to £250, whereas high-end options such as gel-coated stone resin anti-slip wet room trays can average between £500 and £600.
What Are Shower Trays Made From?
Choosing the right material for your shower tray involves considering various factors beyond just aesthetics.
The material not only influences the look of your bathroom but also affects how easy it is to maintain and its durability against daily wear and tear.
When it comes to shower trays, there are several materials to choose from, each with its own advantages:
Acrylic Shower Trays
Known for their affordability, lightweight build, and easy installation, making them a popular choice for modern bathrooms.
They offer flexibility with various sizes, shapes, and colours, but are constrained by standard dimensions and waste positions, which may not suit older or irregular spaces.
While naturally non-slip, acrylic trays are less durable than alternatives like stone resin or ceramic, prone to scratches and cracks.
They require regular cleaning to prevent staining and often need wood reinforcement for added strength.
Despite these considerations, their light weight simplifies handling and installation, appealing to those seeking a practical, budget-friendly option for bathroom renovations.
Fibreglass Shower Trays
A popular choice due to their affordability, lightweight design, and ease of installation.
They offer a practical solution for bathrooms on a budget or with low foot traffic. However, despite their initial appeal, fibreglass trays have drawbacks.
Their ability to absorb water, despite being protected by a waterproof paint layer, can result in wear and eventual leaks over time.
They are also more susceptible to scratches and impacts compared to materials like stone resin or ceramic, which can impact their overall durability.
Regular maintenance is necessary to preserve their appearance and waterproof properties.
Nevertheless, fibreglass shower trays remain a cost-effective option that meets the needs of many homeowners seeking a straightforward bathroom installation solution.
Resin & Mineral Shower Trays
Resin and mineral shower trays are popular choices for bathrooms, prized for their durability and aesthetic appeal.
These trays blend natural minerals with synthetic resins to create surfaces that are scratch-resistant and easy to maintain.
Available in a variety of colours and textures, they offer robustness and heat resistance, though their weight may require careful handling during installation.
Here are some common types of resin and mineral shower trays:
Stone Resin Shower Trays
Pros: Highly durable and impact-resistant, resembling natural stone in appearance. They offer a luxurious and solid feel, retaining heat well and providing excellent longevity.
Cons: Generally heavier and more expensive than other types. Installation may require careful handling due to weight, and customisation options can be limited.
Gel-Coated Stone Resin Shower Trays
Pros: Combine the durability of stone resin with a smooth, scratch-resistant gel coating. Easy to clean and maintain, with a glossy finish that enhances bathroom aesthetics.
Cons: Similar to stone resin trays, they can be heavy and more costly. Limited customisation compared to acrylic options.
Mineral Cast Shower Trays
Pros: Made from a blend of natural minerals and resins, they offer excellent durability, heat resistance, and a wide range of colours and textures. Lightweight yet robust.
Cons: Depending on the specific composition, they may not be as heavy-duty as stone resin trays. Can be pricier than acrylic options.
Acrylic Capped Shower Trays
Pros: ABS is lightweight, easy to install, and available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours. It is affordably priced and often features a naturally non-slip surface.
Cons: Less durable than stone resin or mineral cast trays, prone to scratching and cracking with heavy use. May require wood reinforcement and careful maintenance to prevent damage.
Each type of resin and mineral shower tray offers unique advantages and considerations.
Despite being initially pricier than acrylic or fibreglass alternatives, their durability and aesthetic appeal justify the investment for both residential and commercial bathrooms.
Flax Fibre Shower Trays
Flax fibre shower trays by Porcelanosa are renowned for their eco-friendly credentials, crafted from durable flax fibres combined with resin. Flax fibre acrylic shower trays, on the other hand, merge the eco-friendly benefits of flax fibres with the durability and sleek finish of acrylic.
- Uses minimal water and pesticides, appealing to eco-conscious consumers
- Excellent moisture resistance
- Gel Coat surface for non-slip safety
- Available in various colours and natural textures enhancing bathroom decor organically
- Warm appearance and velvety texture similar to traditional acrylic trays
- Lighter than ceramic, making installation easier and enhancing impact resistance
Versital Shower Trays
Premium material is favoured in high-end bathrooms for its luxurious appearance and versatility.
It replicates the look of natural stones like marble and granite without their maintenance issues. Each shower tray is crafted in a single piece for seamless design and excellent waterproofing.
Coated with a protective gel layer, Versital trays resist stains and water damage, ensuring long-term durability and easy upkeep.
They offer extensive customisation in size, shape, and colour, making them ideal for bespoke bathroom designs, though they come at a higher cost compared to resin and mineral alternatives.
Ceramic Shower Trays
Ceramic & Fireclay Shower Trays, are valued for their durability and suitability in commercial environments due to their robust construction.
They excel in high-traffic areas, resisting stains and chemicals effectively but are vulnerable to chipping or cracking from heavy impact.
Despite their durability and competitive pricing, ceramics and fireclay require careful handling during installation due to their weight and fragility, potentially increasing installation costs.
Nevertheless, ceramic and fireclay shower trays provide a timeless, clean aesthetic that complements various bathroom designs.
Slate Shower Trays
Bring a modern and luxurious feel to any bathroom. They are made from natural slate stone, known for its unique texture and elegant appearance.
Each tray has its own distinct look due to the natural variations in slate, which adds character to your bathroom.
Apart from their stylish appeal, slate shower trays are also practical. They have antibacterial properties that help keep your bathroom clean and hygienic.
They are very durable and hard, so they can withstand daily use without getting damaged easily and they are easy to clean and require minimal upkeep.
Choosing the right shower tray material involves considering several factors like durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and budget.
Each material comes with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Acrylic shower trays are lightweight and cost-effective but may scratch easily.
- Stone resin & mineral trays offer durability and a luxurious look but can be heavier and more expensive.
- Ceramic & Fireclay trays are robust and easy to clean but are heavy and susceptible to chipping.
- Fibreglass trays are affordable and easy to install but may wear out quicker and require more maintenance.
- Flax fibre merges eco-friendly qualities with durability, although it is not as widely accessible as other materials.
- Versital trays, known for their premium materials and seamless waterproof designs, are typically pricier and favoured in high-end projects.
- Slate trays offer natural stone features renowned for their durability and unique aesthetic, though they are heavy and require careful installation.
Ultimately, the ideal choice depends on your priorities and bathroom requirements, ensuring you find a tray that meets both functional needs and aesthetic preferences.
Can I buy a Coloured Shower tray?
White Slate finish
Graphite Slate Finish
Black Slate Finish
Sandstone Slate Finish
Shower trays used to be limited to standard white or off-white colours, but modern materials now offer a wide range including sandstone, graphite, and black.
Acrylic and fibreglass trays offer many colour options due to easy pigmentation, while stone resin and natural material trays have fewer but feature natural textures.
Choosing the best shower tray is a personal decision. To achieve a cohesive look, consider your bathroom's design when selecting the tray color.
Cut to Cut-to-size shower trays
Some shower tray materials, like acrylic, stone resin, gel-coated stone resin, and ABS, can be cut to fit unique bathroom layouts.
Acrylic and ABS trays are easier to trim with fine-toothed saws, while stone resin and gel-coated stone resin need specialised tools and expertise.
This video shows you how to cut a Giorgio Shower Tray by Tissino.
Extra Features to Consider
Anti-Slip Shower Trays
Choose shower trays with non-slip surfaces for better bathroom safety. These trays have textured coatings to prevent slips, especially useful with soap and shampoo residues.
Non-slip trays are essential for households with children, elderly individuals, and those with mobility issues, but they enhance safety for everyone.
Investing in an anti-slip shower tray is a smart move to prevent accidents.
Click Here to watch a video showcasing the benefits of anti-slip trays.
Upstands
An upstand in shower trays refers to a raised edge along the sides and back of the tray, which forms a tight seal when installed against tiled walls.
This seal prevents water from spilling over and seeping into the walls or floor, making the shower more durable and functional.
While optional, upstands significantly improve the watertightness and reliability of your shower tray.
Installation
The installation process for different types of shower trays varies based on their design and the surface where the tray is fitted. Following manufacturer guidelines is crucial for proper installation and waterproofing.
- Low-profile trays require a level floor, adhesive application, and sealing with silicone to ensure a secure fit.
- Standard raised trays involve positioning, adjusting with legs or risers if needed, and sealing around the edges.
- Easy plumb trays, designed for accessible plumbing, require planning for plumbing access, installation on adjustable legs, connection to the waste pipe, and finishing with concealed panels and silicone sealing.
For a video on how to fit a Shower Tray onto a concrete base - Click Here
To see a video on how to fit a Shower Tray onto joins and marine ply - Click Here
Care Instructions
Keeping your shower tray in good condition is essential for its durability.
Regular cleaning with mild, non-abrasive cleaners is recommended to prevent any damage. This practice helps remove soap scum buildup and preserves the tray's appearance over time.
By maintaining cleanliness, you ensure your shower tray stays looking fresh and functional for longer.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Shower Tray
How to choose the right shower tray
When choosing a shower tray, consider its aesthetics and technical aspects. Factors like material choice and installation constraints are critical in wet environments.
Proper drainage, especially for ground-level trays, is crucial for functionality and visual appeal in your shower area.
Step 1. Placement
First, determine where you want to place your shower enclosure in your bathroom.
Step 2. Size
After you've decided on positioning, you can work out how big your tray needs to be and what shape would best suit the location.
Step 3. Plumbing
Check your plumbing location before choosing your shower tray.
- If plumbing can go under the floor, opt for a low profile or slightly raised standard tray for a minimalist or accessible design.
- For plumbing above the floor, choose an easy plumb riser tray for straightforward access during installation and maintenance.
Step 4. Budget
Consider your budget when choosing a shower tray. Decide on your spending limit and whether you prefer a budget-friendly option or a higher-end tray with extra features or durability.
Knowing your budget helps narrow down choices and find a suitable shower tray that fits your financial plan and quality preferences.
Step 5. Material
Consider your preferences when selecting a shower tray material based on factors such as durability, weight, and budget.
Align your choice with your priorities—whether it's ease of installation, long-term durability, or aesthetic versatility—to ensure your shower tray meets both functional and aesthetic needs in your bathroom.
Step 6. Extra Features
When choosing your shower tray, consider safety-enhancing features like anti-slip surfaces and upstands to contain water and prevent leaks in tiled shower enclosures.
Select features that match your safety preferences and maintenance needs to ensure your shower tray meets both practical requirements and enhances your bathing experience.
By carefully considering these factors and exploring various options, you can find the ideal shower tray that complements your bathroom's aesthetic and fulfils your practical requirements.
Whether you prioritise the material's durability, the tray's size and shape, or specific features like anti-slip surfaces or upstands, there's a shower tray suited to every preference and necessity.
When selecting a shower tray, it's crucial to prioritise the material's quality over purely focusing on style and shape to ensure long-term functionality.
If you have any questions or need advice, Contact Us Here to speak with one of our friendly team members. You can also visit our Shower Tray Collection page for more information and options.
Karoline Hermansen: Your Showering Expert
Meet Karoline, our resident expert at TUB, where she brings her design degree and extensive background in all things shower-related. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Karoline delivers fresh insights and updates to keep you informed on everything showering.