When it comes to redesigning or creating a bathroom space, we tend to focus on fashionable tiles, stylish taps or ideal light fittings. But while the visuals steal the show one very important piece gets forgotten, the shower trays. This simple fitting is, in fact, the fundamental building block of your entire shower enclosure, and more crucial than you might think.
It’s also not just about looks, a shower tray serves as both a platform on which to stand in your shower and to pitch water to the drain, and as a barrier to prevent escaping water from flooding the bathroom. From everyday functionality to long-term durability and safety, the tray you select can make all the difference in how well your bathroom functions and lasts.
So, what is a shower tray and why is it so worth it to invest in a high-quality one? Let’s break it down.
What Is a Shower Tray?
A shower tray, most referred to as a shower base, is a molded surface that collects water and directs water to the drain. It rests under your feet as you shower and provides you with a way to trap water where you want it. Shower trays come in all different shapes and sizes, as well as heights and finishes, they can be flushed to the floor, raised slightly with a low-profile tray, or high due to plumbing requirements.
Newer alternatives would be no slip shower trays, raised shower trays and luxury slate effect trays, which offer a luxury design statement and tactile quality in the bathroom. These trays help in multiple ways and are very essential for the bathroom.
Keeps Water Contained
Preventing water from sliding all over the rest of the bathroom floor is, surely, one of the main jobs of a shower tray. Without it, water can splash everywhere, resulting in slick conditions, damp tiles and potential water damage down the line. A nice tray will let that water slide into the drain and collect in the enclosure, and off your floor, and out of your mind.
Promotes Better Drainage
The perfect shower tray slopes ever so gently to ensure water drains faster and efficiently, away from your feet. This eliminates stagnant water pools that may cause offensive odors, discoloration or promote the growth of bacteria. At the end of the day, whether it’s a contemporary minimalist or slate effect shower tray, drainage are crucial to ensuring your bathroom remains dry, clean, and luxurious.
Offers Non-Slip Safety
Bathrooms are inherently slippery, especially where there’s water. This is where non-slip shower trays come into play. These are designed with textured surfaces for more grip and less accidents, so the trays are also safe for kids. Great for families with kids or elderly, or anyone with difficulty moving, non-slip tray is just what you need to make showering easier and enjoyable.
Easier to Clean and Maintain
By containing the water in one spot, shower trays also help prevent mould, mildew, and soap scum from covering your entire bathroom. Their aseptic surface is convenient to sponge cleaning which save your time. A drier floor also results in fewer watermarks and a buildup of grime, so your bathroom stays fresher longer.
Enhances Bathroom Design
Quality shower trays, which are both functional and elegant, will be a modern addition to any bathroom. Their simple lines, and modern materials make them versatile for use in combination with glass partitions, rainfall showerheads, or shower enclosures. For instance, a slate effect shower tray can give natural, high-end texture that also happens to be low maintenance. Whether your style is contemporary or classic, the perfect shower tray pulls the design together.
Raised Shower Trays Offer Flexibility
Where plumbing above the floor level can be an issue, as can adapting floor heights, raised shower trays offer a practical solution. These trays are raised so that pipework can be accommodated underneath. They’re great for rapid installations, remodeling, and leveling uneven floors and otherwise creating a beautiful, realistic looking hardwood floor.
Protects the Structure of Bathroom
One of the biggest enemies of any bathroom is water leaks. Over time, water penetrating will harm grout, weaken the tiles and even impact the structure of the space. A long lasting shower tray provides a watertight connection between your shower and the rest of your bathroom at a very minimal cost, so you don’t have to be worried about the water damage.
Built to Last
Durability is one of the bathroom’s key elements, and shower trays are no exception. High-quality trays made from stone resin or reinforced acrylic, will stand the test of time under daily use, and they will not crack, warp, or yellow. A sturdy tray, well taken care of, can last for years, offering great value for money and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Picking a strong and sturdy shower tray option is more than completing another thing on your bathroom check-list. It’s about ensuring your space is safer, cleaner, functional and more stylish for years to come. From avoiding water damage and spills to improving drainage and ease of cleaning, the right one sets the stage for a functional, hassle-free shower.
Whether you are a fan of the minimalist look of a slate effect shower tray, the plinth effect of a raised shower tray, or you need maximum safety with non-slip options, you need to know that your chosen shower tray will stand the test of time. After all, this one thing is an important part of your routine, as well as the design of your bathroom.So, when you’re considering your next bathroom renovation, don’t forget about the base, as a strong foundation always begins with the right shower tray.
