Simple Guide to Choosing a Shower Tray

A shower tray is an essential part of a new shower enclosure. There are many options available, with different shapes, styles, and colours. But where do you start if you’re looking for a new tray or an upgrade?

In this easy guide we will to help you choose a new shower tray. We’ll cover everything from the different shapes to how to keep your tray clean.

What is a Shower Tray?

A shower tray is the base of your shower. It directs the water into the drain, which is usually in the centre, corner, or side of the tray. Shower trays are strong and durable. They fit with the shower panels to create a watertight enclosure. Getting the right size is important to prevent leaks and water damage.

What sizes are shower trays available in?

Shower trays are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes starting from as small as 700mm x 700mm upto larger 2200mm x 1000mm size trays.

How Do I Measure a Shower Tray?

Measuring a shower tray needs to be precise to avoid mistakes. Here’s what you might need:

• Tape measure
• Pen or pencil
• Paper for notes
• Cardboard

For square or rectangular trays, measure each side from the corner (e.g., 800mm x 800mm). For curved trays, find the radius by measuring from the centre to the point where the tray starts to curve. You can also use cardboard to trace and cut out the shape of your tray.

Make sure to note where the drain is so it lines up with your plumbing. 

Also not that majority of trays will have wall boards or tiles installed onto the tray, the thickness of this wall covering will need to be taken into account. For example you may measure 790mm from the tile which would mean you have a 800mm tray with 10mm of tile. 

What Shower Tray Shapes Can I Buy?

Shower Trays are available is a variety of shapes:

Square Shower Trays

Rectangle Shower Trays

Walk In Shower Trays

Quadrant Shower Trays

Offset Quadrant Trays

Pentangle Shower Trays

Anti Slip Shower Trays

Stone Resin Shower Trays

Slate Effect Shower Trays

Cuttable Shower Trays

Steel Shower Trays

Shower Tray Seals & Riser Kits

• Square Trays: Ideal for small bathrooms, fitting in a corner or alcove. Compatible with pivot, bifold, and hinged doors.
• Rectangular Trays: Can fit in corners or alcoves, offering a larger shower area. Available in various sizes.
• Quadrant Trays: Have two equal sides and a curved front, perfect for corners.
• Offset Quadrant Trays: Combine rectangular and quadrant shapes, with one side larger than the other.
• Walk-In Trays: Designed for walk-in enclosures, often larger with low-level access.
• Shaped Trays: Includes D-shaped, P-shaped, and pentagonal designs, suitable for unique bathroom layouts.

What Are Shower Trays Made From?

Shower trays are made from different materials:

• ABS Acrylic Capped Stone Resin: Made from stone mixed with resin and coated with acrylic for durability and scratch resistance. See our range of stone resing shower trays here
• Acrylic: Affordable, lite weight and easy to install.
• Steel: Crafted from premium-quality steel, these shower trays are engineered to withstand the demands of daily use.

Trays come in various finishes, with white being the most popular, but black, grey, and sandstone are also available.

Can a Shower Tray Be Raised?

Yes, a shower tray can be raised with a riser kit, which lifts the tray off the floor for easier access to plumbing. This is useful if you need a higher enclosure or easier pipe access. 

Alternatively you can build a false raised floor to install the shower tray.

What Types of Shower Trays Can I Buy?

• Low-Level: Flush with the floor, great for easy access and minimal design. Normally around 25mm thick
• Standard: Common in households, with a raised edge to prevent water escape. Normally around 40mm thick.
• Classic Deep tray: Normally around 100mm thick and have a deeper lip around the tray to contain water.

How Much Do Shower Trays Cost?

Shower trays start from around £80 but depending on the depending on size, brand, material and finish trays can cost over a thousand pound. 

How Do I Clean a Shower Tray?

Shower trays can get dirty with soap scum, limescale, and bacteria. Here’s an easy cleaning method:

• Mix 100ml of white vinegar and 100ml of washing-up liquid in a bottle.
• Spray onto the tray and leave for 30 minutes.
• Wipe and rinse.

Check the manufacturer’s warranty before cleaning to avoid voiding it.

Can Shower Trays Be Cut to Size?

No all trays can be cut, and cutting a tray not designed to be cut will void any warranted. Cut-able showers trays should be purchased should you require a size or shape tray not commonly available and it’s best to let a professional handle this to avoid mistakes.

Ready To Choose?

We hope you found this information helpful. When your ready to choose and purchase a shower tray, please visit our tray section at Rubberduck Bathrooms