DIY Guide: How to Install Your Shower Tray Like A Pro

A correct shower tray installation can be the difference between a smoothly running and a leaking bathroom. Learn to fit a shower tray properly with easy-to-follow instructions in our step-by-step guide here, if you have made the decision to buy a new shower tray.

And if you're still in the market for a shower tray, consider our latest offering - the LuxeFlo range. With its advanced features and sleek design, LuxeFlo is the ultimate resin shower tray range for your dream bathroom. 

In today’s DIY guide, we'll walk you through the steps to install your shower tray like a pro, so you can achieve the bathroom of your dreams.

A shower tray is essential and probably the most important part of your shower area. Therefore, you will need to make sure you complete its installation properly to avoid any future problems. Although installing a tray is a kind of task that is better left to the professional, if you are a DIY enthusiast with some knowledge of using basic plumbing tools, then it can help you save money. The time you may need to complete the task depends on whether it's a new installation or a replacement for the older one and your skill level. However, you should be ready to spend a few hours completing this task.

In case you are unsure about whether to DIY shower tray installation or not, ask yourself a question.

“Are you familiar with basic pipework (cutting or joining pipe and fittings)?”

If your answer is "yes", you can probably handle this task.

Before we start discussing the actual process of installation, it is important to decide whether you are going for an adjustable-height shower tray or a low-profile shower tray. Your choice will depend on various factors like the type of floor you have and the position of waste etc. Adjustable shower trays come with legs allowing you to access the pipe underneath in case something goes wrong and are, therefore, a more popular option. However, in case you have a timber flat floor then a low-profile tray may be a better option.

Here is the list of tools you will need to fit a shower tray:

• Measuring Tape
• Screwdriver (you may need a drill machine in some cases)
• Spirit Level
• Lead Pencil/Marker
• Crescent Wrench
• Buzz Saw
• Steel Square
• Jigsaw
• Power Miter Saw
• Spanner Wrench
• Hognose Or Reclip Saw
• Tongue-and-groove pliers
• Small Shovel
• Pipe Cutter/ Knife

Here is a step-by-step process that you will need to follow. The Initial steps are the same for both shower tray types. 

You will need to make sure the place where you want to fit a shower tray is completely clean and ready for installation. You should remove any old tiles, waste pipes, or flooring to ensure it is dry and clean.

Follow these steps for the adjustable shower trays.

Simply place the tray in the position you want to install it. Make sure it will fit into the space available without any clearance issues. You can now start screwing the legs into the position and adjust the height up to the desired level. There should be an adequate gap in adjusting the legs that allow waste to fit. Check the waste to see if it is lined up and fitting into it perfectly.

In case you are satisfied with the overall fitting, then create the most suitable route for a waste pipe (in case it's not already in place). Once the waste is adjusted properly, you can connect the waste to the tray and attach that to the trap.

It is essential to ensure the tray is leveled perfectly. So, use the level and check it from all angles to be on the sure side. In case your tray is not leveled properly, it can cause many problems.

Once the shower tray is leveled, you can now start working to connect the waste with the outlet pipe underneath. You will need to make sure the waste fits into the waste perfectly with no gaps or loose at any spot. To ensure proper fitting, you can pour some water into it and see if there is anything wrong with it.

You can now start fitting the glass shower tray side panel to complete the look. These are not difficult to fit. You will only need to put them in place and screw them into place. 

You will need to seal the tray from all around and between the walls. It will protect against leaks. Make sure there are no gaps left around the corners, top, edge, and wall.

Follow these steps for the low shower trays

The next step will be to mark the area of the shower tray to work on. It ensures the measurement is the perfect place for the shower tray onto the floor and uses a marker to mark the outline on the floor. 

You will first need to create the hole for the waste if it is not already there. You can do it by cutting a hole in the floor using a jigsaw. Make sure it is relatively smaller than the waste to fit in properly.

Now you can fit the waste and trap it in the designated space. You should follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure waste is leveled according to the shower tray.

Once the waste and trap are in the right position and fit, you can apply sealant around it to make it watertight.

Since low-profile shower trays don't have any room for pipework underneath, between the base and floor, you may need to create the space by removing the floorboards. Then you can use a mixture of sand (5 parts) and cement (1 part) and spread it all over the marked area (step 2) of the shower tray.

Now you can put a shower tray on mortar while positioning it on the waste and use shims to level it if necessary. Use the level multiple times to ensure it is leveled properly from all sides. You will need to leave it dry for the next 24 hours.

You will need to perfectly fit the shower tray to the floor with screws and rawl plugs. Make sure everything is set up properly and is secure and stable.

Now it is important to apply the silicone sealant on the edges of the shower tray. It is important to make sure there will not be any leakages between the shower tray and the wall. So, seal it completely from all sides. 

After the silicone sealant has dried, finish the area by tiling or installing a shower panel. 

Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and observe any relevant building regulations.

In conclusion, installing a shower tray might seem like a daunting task, but it can be accomplished with the right tools and a bit of knowledge. Whether you opt for an adjustable-height shower tray or a low-profile one, it is essential to ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions and observe any relevant building regulations.

We hope that this step-by-step guide has been helpful in providing you with the necessary information to install your own shower tray like a pro. By doing so, you can save money and ensure that your bathroom is a smooth-running and leak-free haven.

Remember to take your time and don't rush the process. A well-installed shower tray can make a big difference in your bathroom's overall functionality and aesthetics. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to install your shower tray with confidence!