{"id":4698,"date":"2026-02-20T07:19:29","date_gmt":"2026-02-20T07:19:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/?p=4698"},"modified":"2026-05-14T12:59:10","modified_gmt":"2026-05-14T12:59:10","slug":"how-to-remove-a-shower-tray","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/2026\/02\/how-to-remove-a-shower-tray\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Remove a Shower Tray"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Updating your bathroom is an exciting project, but before you can install a shiny new enclosure, you often face a difficult task: removing the old one. Learning how to remove a <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/shower-trays\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">shower tray<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> properly is essential to avoid damaging your plumbing, flooring, or walls.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Whether you are dealing with a cracked base or simply modernising your space, this guide will walk you through the process. <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Showers to You<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> will cover the tools you need, the safety steps to take, and the specific techniques for different tray types.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Understanding Your Shower Tray Type: Acrylic vs Stone Resin<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Before you start ripping up flooring, you need to know what you are dealing with. The material and installation method of your current tray will dictate how difficult the removal process will be.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Acrylic Trays<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">These are lightweight and often feel hollow when tapped. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">They<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> are frequently installed on a riser kit (legs) with a panel covering the front. Removing these is generally easier because you can access the plumbing underneath.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Stone Resin Trays<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">These are heavy, solid, and durable, such as the <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/shower-trays\/shower-trays-by-brand\/kudos-shower-trays\/kudos-kstone-45mm-stone-resin-shower-trays\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Kudos Kstone 45mm Stone Resin Shower Trays<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">. They are typically installed directly onto the floor using a mortar mix or strong adhesive. Knowing how to remove a shower tray of this type involves more effort, as you often have to break the bond between the tray and the concrete or floorboards.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/shower-trays\/shower-trays-by-brand\/kudos-shower-trays\/kudos-kstone-45mm-stone-resin-shower-trays\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-4701\" src=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Kudos-KStone-Shower-Trays-300x210.jpg\" alt=\"Kudos KStone Shower Trays\" width=\"300\" height=\"210\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Kudos-KStone-Shower-Trays-300x210.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Kudos-KStone-Shower-Trays-1024x717.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Kudos-KStone-Shower-Trays-768x538.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Kudos-KStone-Shower-Trays-650x455.jpg 650w, https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Kudos-KStone-Shower-Trays.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Essential Tools and Safety Equipment for Removal<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You cannot perform this job with your bare hands. Gather these items before you begin to ensure a safe and efficient workflow:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Utility knife:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> To cut through old silicone sealant.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Crowbar or Pry Bar:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> For leveraging the tray off the floor.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Hammer and Chisel:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Essential for chipping away mortar or stubborn tiles.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Adjustable Wrench\/Pliers:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> To disconnect the waste trap.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Bucket and Towels:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> To catch excess water from the trap.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Reciprocating Saw (Optional):<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Useful for cutting through a stubborn waste pipe.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">PPE (Personal Protective Equipment):<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Safety goggles and heavy-duty gloves are non-negotiable. Old porcelain or resin can shatter into razor-sharp shards.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Pre-Removal Checklist: Preparation is Key<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Don&#8217;t rush straight into prying up the tray. A little preparation prevents accidents and flooding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>1. Turn off the water<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Locate your isolation valve or stopcock and turn off the water supply to the shower. Even though you are working on the waste (drainage), it is safer to ensure that no water can accidentally flow if a tap is knocked.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Remove the shower enclosure<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You cannot effectively learn how to remove a shower tray with the glass doors still attached. Unscrew the frame from the wall channels and carefully remove the glass panels. Place them in a safe room away from the work area.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>3. Clear the area<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Remove any bath mats, toiletries, or loose items. You need space to move, especially if you are hauling out a heavy stone tray.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Step-by-Step Removal Guide<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Once the area is prepped, follow these steps to begin the removal.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>1. Cutting the Sealant<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The tray will be sealed to the wall (and possibly the floor) with silicone. Take your utility knife and run it along the edges where the tray meets the tiles or wall panels. Be thorough here; old silicone can hold surprisingly tight. If you have a bottom row of tiles overlapping the tray, you may need to chisel these off to free the tray edges.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">For future reference, read through our guide on <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/2026\/02\/how-to-reseal-a-shower-tray\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How to Reseal a Shower Tray<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<h3><strong>2. Disconnecting the Waste<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> is often the trickiest part of figuring out how to remove a shower tray.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Raised Trays:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Remove the front panel. You should see the waste trap and pipework. Unscrew the trap from the waste outlet.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Flat-to-Floor Trays:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> If you cannot access underneath, you may need to unscrew the waste grid from the top. If the waste is corroded or stuck, you might have to break the tray around the waste hole to free it later.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong>3. Protect the Floor<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Lay down a dust sheet or cardboard. When you pry up the tray, debris and old mortar will likely crumble out.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Lifting Techniques for Different Installations<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Now comes the physical part. The method changes depending on how the tray was fixed.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Removing a Tray on Riser Legs<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If you have disconnected the waste and cut the sealant, this should be straightforward. Unscrew the feet from the floor (if they are screwed down). If they are glued, use your pry bar to gently lever the legs up. The tray should lift out relatively easily.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Removing a Tray from Mortar<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> requires more force. Insert your crowbar under the lip of the tray. Gently apply pressure to lever it upwards.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Warning:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Stone resin trays often crack during this process. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> is normal. If you are not reusing the tray, it does not matter if it breaks.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Use a block of wood under your crowbar to protect the floorboards or tiles you want to keep.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Work your way around the perimeter, loosening the adhesive bond gradually.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Assessing the Subfloor<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Once the tray is out, you will likely be left with a patch of floor that looks less than perfect. Before installing a new one, you must inspect the area.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Check for <\/span><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">water damage or rot<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">. If the old silicone failed, water might have seeped into the floorboards or joists. Replace any soft or rotting wood immediately. If you install a new tray over a rotten floor, you risk future movement and leaks.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Ensure the floor is <\/span><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">level<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">. Use a spirit level to check the surface. If it is uneven, you may need to lay marine plywood or use a self-levelling compound. A flat surface is critical for the longevity of your next tray.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Next Steps: Choosing Your Replacement<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Now that the hard work is done, you can select a replacement that suits your bathroom. Modern trays offer better durability and smarter designs than older models.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>For a Lightweight Solution<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If you found the heavy lifting difficult, consider a modern polymer stone resin tray. The <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/\/1100-x-900-rectangular-shower-tray-durastone-low-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">MX Durastone 1100 x 900mm Rectangular Low Profile Shower Tray<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> is an excellent choice. It is robust but significantly lighter than traditional stone, as one customer noted: <\/span><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&#8220;Very light and easy to handle. Flat base made for easy fitting with onto ply base. So far so good!&#8221;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/\/1100-x-900-rectangular-shower-tray-durastone-low-profile\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-4702\" src=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/MX-Durastone-1100-x-900mm-Rectangular-Low-Profile-Shower-Tray-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"MX Durastone 1100 x 900mm Rectangular Low Profile Shower Tray\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/MX-Durastone-1100-x-900mm-Rectangular-Low-Profile-Shower-Tray-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/MX-Durastone-1100-x-900mm-Rectangular-Low-Profile-Shower-Tray-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/MX-Durastone-1100-x-900mm-Rectangular-Low-Profile-Shower-Tray-40x40.jpg 40w, https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/MX-Durastone-1100-x-900mm-Rectangular-Low-Profile-Shower-Tray.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>For Safety and Durability<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If your priority is safety, particularly for family bathrooms, slip resistance is key. The <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/\/kudos-kstone-slip-resistant-1200-x-800mm-rectangular-shower-tray-with-corner-waste\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Kudos Kstone Slip Resistant 1200 x 800mm Rectangular Shower Tray with Corner Waste<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> offers a structured resin-bonded stone filler for stability. It is a popular choice, with one happy buyer saying, <\/span><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&#8220;third time purchasing the kudos try from &#8216;showers to you&#8217; great service throughout and great tray&#8221;<\/span><\/em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">. Another customer commented on the delivery process: <\/span><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&#8220;The tray was fine&#8230;&#8221;<\/span><\/em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">, highlighting the importance of checking your order contents upon arrival.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>For Flexible Installation<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Sometimes, joists get in the way of the waste pipe. The <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/\/kudos-connect2-1400-x-900mm-rectangle-shower-tray\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Kudos Connect2 1400 x 900mm Rectangle Shower Tray<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> solves this with a unique offset waste system. A user mentioned: <\/span><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&#8220;Looks good, feels solid. I can&#8217;t comment on fitting as that was down to our installer <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">but<\/span> <span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">seemed<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> to go in easy enough.&#8221;<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>For a comprehensive set of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/shower-trays\/shower-tray-faqs\/\">FAQs about Shower Trays<\/a>, see our complete guide now!<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Is it easy to remove a shower tray?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">It depends on the installation. A tray on raised legs is usually easy to remove. A stone tray glued to the floor with strong adhesive can be physically demanding and messy. If you research how to remove a shower tray thoroughly beforehand, you will find the process much smoother.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Are shower trays glued down?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Yes, most <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/shower-trays\/low-profile-stone-resin-shower-trays\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">low-profile shower trays<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> are bedded down on a weak sand-and-cement mix or a grab adhesive. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> prevents the tray from flexing when you stand on it. You will need to break this bond to remove the tray.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>How do you remove shower trays without damaging tiles?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> is difficult. If the tiles overlap the tray, you almost always have to remove the bottom row. If the tiles butt up to the tray (rather than overlap), you might get away with just cutting the silicone. However, proceed with caution, as chipping is common.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Can I reuse an old shower tray?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Generally, no. The removal process, especially when applied to stone-resin trays bonded to the floor, often results in chipping or cracking. Even if it looks intact, hairline cracks can cause leaks later. It is safer to install a new one.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>When to DIY vs hiring a professional plumber?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If you are confident in your ability to handle waste pipes and heavy lifting, you can do this yourself. However, if you are unsure how to remove a shower tray without damaging the subfloor, or if the waste pipe is inaccessible, hiring a professional plumber gives you peace of mind.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Ready for Your Renovation?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Knowing how to remove a shower tray is the first step toward a beautiful new bathroom. While it requires some effort and the right tools, it is a manageable job for a patient DIYer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Once your old tray is out and the floor is prepped, you are ready to choose a stylish, high-quality replacement. Browse our <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/shower-trays\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">extensive range of shower trays<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> today to find the perfect fit for your bathroom.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Contact us today via email at\u00a0<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"mailto:info@showerstoyou.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">info@showerstoyou.co.uk<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">, by phone at 01472 242159, or through our\u00a0<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">online contact form<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Updating your bathroom is an exciting project, but before you can install a shiny new enclosure, you often face a difficult task: removing the old one. Learning how to remove [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":4700,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[143],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4698"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4698"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4698\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4797,"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4698\/revisions\/4797"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4700"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4698"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4698"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.showerstoyou.co.uk\/latest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4698"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}