Shower Tray FAQs

Shower Tray FAQs

What is a shower tray and why do I need one?

A shower tray forms the base of your shower enclosure and safely channels water towards the waste outlet. Choosing the right tray is just as important as choosing the enclosure itself, as the tray affects drainage, comfort underfoot, accessibility, and the overall look of your bathroom.

Modern shower trays are available in a wide range of styles including slimline trays, stone resin trays, anti-slip shower trays, slate effect trays, and wetroom former systems.

What size shower tray should I choose?

The best shower tray size depends on your bathroom layout, available floor space, and how spacious you want the showering area to feel.

Some of the most popular UK shower tray sizes include:

• 800 x 800mm for compact bathrooms and en-suites
• 900 x 900mm for standard quadrant enclosures
• 1200 x 800mm for modern walk-in showers
• 1400mm+ trays for luxury wetroom-style bathrooms

Many customers renovating family bathrooms now prefer larger rectangular trays because they create a more open showering space and pair well with contemporary walk-in shower screens. Larger formats such as 1800 x 900mm shower trays have become increasingly popular in modern bathroom renovations.

What shower tray is best for a walk-in shower?

Large rectangular stone resin trays are often the go-to choice for walk-in shower enclosures because they create a clean, open look while still offering excellent durability and stability underfoot.

Ranges such as the Kudos Connect2 shower trays, MX shower trays, and Novellini Novosolid trays are especially popular in modern UK bathrooms because of their slimline profiles and premium finishes.

For contemporary bathrooms, slate effect trays in white, anthracite, or black have become increasingly common, particularly in walk-in shower spaces inspired by boutique hotel bathrooms. Ranges such as MStone, Kudos Connect2, and Scudo Shires are often chosen for their slimmer profiles and more natural stone-style finish.

What is the best shower tray size for a wetroom?

Wetrooms usually work best with larger tray formers or low-profile trays from around 1200mm upwards. A larger showering area improves drainage performance and helps reduce water escaping into the rest of the bathroom.

For smaller bathrooms, a 900 x 900mm wetroom tray or former can still work effectively when installed with the correct floor gradient and screen placement. Some homeowners also choose larger 1200 x 1000mm shower trays when creating more spacious wetroom-style showering areas.

What’s the difference between stone resin and lightweight shower trays?

Stone resin shower trays tend to feel heavier and more solid underfoot, which is one of the reasons many homeowners see them as a more premium option. Lightweight trays, on the other hand, are often easier to manoeuvre into position, especially in loft conversions or awkward upstairs bathrooms.

Stone resin shower trays

• Extremely durable and rigid
• More premium feel underfoot
• Better resistance to flexing
• Often quieter during use
• Ideal for modern walk-in bathrooms

Lightweight shower trays

• Easier to manoeuvre upstairs
• Simpler installation
• Usually more affordable
• Useful where floor loading is a concern
• Popular for quick bathroom renovations

Many premium manufacturers now combine the advantages of both lightweight handling and stone resin durability. Brands such as MX and Ajax offer slimline reinforced trays designed to provide easier installation while still delivering the rigidity and premium feel customers expect in modern bathrooms. Collections such as MX Minerals shower trays remain popular for contemporary low-profile bathroom designs.

The MX Durastone shower tray range — sometimes also referred to as MX Ducostone trays — has also become a well-known choice for homeowners looking for the durability of stone resin with a slimmer, more contemporary profile. Installers often favour Durastone trays because they combine solid construction with relatively manageable handling weights compared to some traditional high-wall stone resin trays.

Eastbrook Volente shower trays have also become a popular choice for homeowners looking for a slimmer, lighter-weight alternative to traditional heavy stone resin trays. Their reinforced resin marble construction helps provide a solid feel underfoot while remaining easier to handle during installation, particularly in upstairs bathrooms and loft conversions.

Are stone resin shower trays worth it?

For most bathrooms, yes. Stone resin shower trays remain one of the most popular options in the UK because they combine durability, stability, and a high-end finish.

Brands such as Novellini, Kudos, MX, Scudo, Ajax, Nuie, and Eastbrook all manufacture stone resin or reinforced composite shower trays designed to withstand years of daily use while maintaining a premium appearance.

From both a customer and installer perspective, stone resin trays are still one of the most commonly recommended choices for family bathrooms. They generally offer better rigidity, improved long-term durability, and a more substantial feel underfoot compared to entry-level acrylic alternatives.

Stone resin trays are particularly popular in low-profile and walk-in shower installations because they feel more substantial underfoot than standard acrylic trays.

What shower tray is best if I need to cut it to size?

If you need a shower tray for an awkward alcove, uneven wall, or bespoke walk-in installation, the Novellini Novosolid shower tray range is widely considered one of the best cuttable shower tray options available.

Unlike many standard acrylic trays that cannot safely be altered, Novosolid trays are specifically designed to be trimmed on site while maintaining their strength and finish.

This makes them especially useful in older UK properties where walls are rarely perfectly square.

Most installers will dry-fit the tray before making any cuts, particularly in older properties where walls and alcoves are rarely perfectly straight. Trimming allowances can also vary slightly depending on the tray size and finish.

Why customers choose Novellini Novosolid trays

• Can be cut down during installation
• Suitable for flush-to-floor wetroom installations
• Available in slate effect and matte finishes
• Excellent anti-slip surface
• Premium stone resin construction
• Ideal for bespoke bathroom layouts

Some Novosolid trays can be trimmed by up to 9cm on the long side and up to 4cm on the short side when installed according to manufacturer guidelines.

Are there other shower trays that can be cut to size?

Yes. Alongside Novellini Novosolid, some Roman and wetroom-style tray systems can also be adjusted or trimmed during installation.

Certain slate effect stone resin trays and wetroom former systems are specifically designed to allow on-site modifications where walls are uneven or space is restricted.

Always check the manufacturer’s installation instructions before cutting any tray, as not all shower trays are suitable for trimming.

Can all shower trays be cut down?

No. Many acrylic shower trays should never be cut because trimming can weaken the structure and invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty.

If you require a tray that can be modified, it’s always best to choose a product specifically designed for cutting, such as the Novellini Novosolid range.

What’s the easiest shower tray to install?

Raised shower trays fitted with riser kits are usually the simplest option to install because the plumbing and waste pipework remain accessible underneath the tray.

Slimline trays create a cleaner, more modern appearance, but they may require floor excavation or recessed installation depending on the bathroom layout.

Many customers renovating upstairs bathrooms choose riser kits because they simplify installation without needing to alter floor joists.

How do you fit a shower tray?

Correct shower tray installation is one of the most important factors in preventing leaks, movement, and long-term cracking.

While installation methods vary slightly between manufacturers, most shower trays are fitted by:

1. Preparing and levelling the floor
2. Checking the waste pipe alignment and access
3. Installing the waste before positioning the tray
4. Supporting the tray correctly underneath
5. Checking the tray is perfectly level on all sides
6. Testing drainage before sealing
7. Applying sanitary-grade silicone around all tray edges

Most stone resin shower trays should be installed onto a full mortar or bedding compound for even support. This helps prevent tray flexing, movement around seals, and stress fractures developing over time.

Experienced installers will usually test-fit the tray and waste before final bedding because correcting pipe alignment afterwards can be far more difficult.

One of the most common mistakes during installation is rushing the preparation stage. Uneven flooring, poor waste alignment, or insufficient support underneath the tray can all cause movement, drainage issues, or leaking further down the line.

For a full step-by-step installation walkthrough covering tray preparation, waste fitting, levelling, sealing, and common fitting mistakes, see our guide on how to install a shower tray.

How do you install a shower tray on a wooden floor?

Installing a shower tray on timber flooring requires careful preparation because any movement in the floor can eventually affect seals, tiles, and pipework.

Before fitting a tray onto a wooden floor:

• Ensure floorboards are secure and level
• Reinforce weak or flexible joists if required
• Use moisture-resistant or marine plywood where recommended
• Check there is enough depth for the waste pipe and trap
• Ensure the tray is fully supported underneath

Stone resin trays such as Novellini Novosolid, Kudos Connect2, Kudos KStone shower trays, and MStone trays may require additional floor reinforcement because of their heavier solid construction.

Many installers now prefer trays such as Kudos Connect2 because certain models offer more flexible waste positioning, helping avoid awkward joist conflicts during installation.

Do shower trays need a mortar bed?

Most stone resin trays benefit from being installed onto a sand and cement or flexible mortar bed to provide even support and prevent movement.

Some lightweight trays can be installed directly onto the floor or with adjustable riser kits, but it’s always important to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

What’s the difference between slimline and raised shower trays?

Slimline shower trays sit close to floor level and create a sleek contemporary appearance. Raised trays sit higher off the floor and allow room underneath for plumbing and waste pipework.

Slimline shower trays

• Modern minimalist appearance
• Easier step-in access
• Popular for walk-in showers
• Ideal for contemporary bathrooms

Raised shower trays

• Easier plumbing access
• Simpler retrofitting
• Ideal where floor depth is limited
• Popular in upstairs bathrooms

Are low-profile shower trays better?

Low-profile shower trays are extremely popular because they create a cleaner, more seamless bathroom design and are easier to step into.

However, they require sufficient drainage space beneath the floor. In some older properties or upstairs bathrooms, a raised tray may still be the more practical option.

What is an anti-slip shower tray?

Anti-slip shower trays feature textured surfaces or specialist coatings designed to improve grip under wet conditions.

These trays are especially popular in family bathrooms, accessible bathrooms, and homes with elderly users.

Modern anti-slip trays are designed to improve grip without feeling overly rough underfoot or becoming difficult to clean. Options such as Scudo Shires shower trays are increasingly popular in accessible and family bathrooms. Premium stone resin trays from ranges such as Scudo Shires, Kudos Connect2, and Novellini Novosolid often incorporate subtle textured finishes rather than the harsh abrasive textures found on some older trays.

Some manufacturers also test their trays to recognised barefoot slip resistance standards, which can provide additional reassurance when choosing trays for family or accessible bathrooms.

Ranges such as Scudo Shires anti-slip trays, Kudos Connect2 trays, and Novellini Novosolid trays offer improved slip resistance while still maintaining a premium appearance.

Many customers now specifically ask about anti-slip ratings when designing accessible bathrooms, en-suites for older relatives, or family bathrooms used by children. In our experience, textured stone resin surfaces tend to provide a better balance between safety and ease of cleaning compared to older heavily textured acrylic trays.

Are anti-slip shower trays harder to clean?

Not necessarily. Some textured surfaces can hold soap residue slightly more than smooth trays, but most modern anti-slip trays are designed to remain easy to maintain.

High-quality gel-coated trays usually clean easily with mild bathroom cleaners and warm water.

What’s the best material for a shower tray?

Stone resin is often considered the best all-round shower tray material because it combines strength, durability, and a premium finish.

Acrylic trays are lighter and more affordable, while ceramic trays offer a traditional appearance but are significantly heavier.

Most modern premium shower trays sold by brands such as Kudos, MX, Ajax, Hudson Reed, Scudo, and Novellini are now manufactured using stone resin or reinforced composite materials.

These materials are widely used throughout the UK bathroom industry because they provide improved durability, better resistance to flexing, and a more substantial feel during use.

Are acrylic shower trays any good?

Modern reinforced acrylic trays can still be an excellent choice for many bathrooms. They are lightweight, affordable, and easier to install than heavy stone resin trays.

However, they may not feel as rigid or luxurious underfoot as premium stone resin alternatives.

What shape shower tray is best?

The best shape depends on your bathroom layout and available space.

Square shower trays

• Ideal for compact bathrooms
• Popular for corner enclosures
• Common in en-suites

Rectangular shower trays

• Provide more showering space
• Popular for walk-in showers
• Ideal for family bathrooms

Quadrant shower trays

• Save floor space
• Curved front softens bathroom design
• Great for smaller rooms

Offset quadrant shower trays

• Offer additional showering space
• Retain space-saving curved design
• Popular in modern renovations

Can a walk-in enclosure work without a shower tray?

Yes. Many walk-in enclosures can be installed directly onto a tiled wetroom floor or wetroom former instead of using a traditional tray.

This creates a seamless modern finish and improves accessibility.

Can wetroom screens also be fitted onto a shower tray?

Yes. Many wetroom screens and walk-in panels can be installed directly onto either a tiled wetroom floor or a low-profile shower tray.

This gives greater flexibility during bathroom design and installation.

How do you seal a shower tray properly?

To seal a shower tray correctly:

1. Ensure all surfaces are clean and completely dry
2. Remove any old silicone fully before resealing
3. Use a high-quality sanitary-grade silicone suitable for bathrooms
4. Apply a continuous bead around all tray edges
5. Smooth the seal evenly to remove gaps or air pockets
6. Allow the sealant to cure fully before using the shower

Poor sealing is one of the most common causes of bathroom leaks, particularly around tray corners and where movement occurs between the wall and tray.

When resealing an older tray, installers will usually recommend removing all failed silicone rather than simply applying new sealant over the top. Any trapped mould, moisture, or loose sealant underneath can prevent the new silicone from bonding properly.

It’s also important not to overfill the silicone joint. A neat, consistent bead generally performs better long-term than excessively thick sealant lines which can trap moisture and become harder to clean.

For a full step-by-step guide, including how to remove old silicone cleanly and avoid common resealing mistakes, see our guide on how to reseal a shower tray.

How do you remove old bathroom sealant?

Removing old bathroom sealant properly is essential before applying new silicone. Simply sealing over existing mouldy or loose silicone rarely lasts long-term because the new sealant cannot bond correctly to contaminated surfaces.

Most installers will start by carefully cutting along both edges of the old silicone using a sharp sealant tool or utility knife. Once loosened, the old sealant can usually be peeled away by hand or gently scraped off.

For stubborn residue:

• Silicone remover gel can help soften older sealant
• Plastic scrapers reduce the risk of scratching trays or tiles
• White spirit or specialist residue remover can help clean remaining film
• The area should always be fully dry before resealing

Patience is important when removing sealant, especially around shower trays, tiled corners, and delicate finishes. Rushing the job or using excessive force can scratch trays, damage tile edges, or leave behind residue that affects the new seal.

If mould keeps returning around bathroom sealant, it’s often a sign the silicone has started to fail or moisture is being trapped behind damaged sections.

For a full step-by-step guide covering tools, silicone remover gels, residue cleaning, and resealing preparation, see our guide on how to remove bathroom sealant.

How often should you reseal a shower tray?

It’s worth checking shower tray sealant every year for gaps, lifting, or signs of mould. In most bathrooms, silicone tends to last around 3–5 years depending on ventilation, cleaning routines, and how heavily the shower is used.

How do you clean a shower tray?

For regular cleaning:

• Use warm water and mild bathroom cleaner
• Avoid abrasive cleaning pads
• Remove soap residue weekly
• Rinse thoroughly after use where possible

Premium gel-coated trays such as Novellini Novosolid, Kudos Connect2, and MStone shower trays are generally very easy to maintain.

For day-to-day cleaning, we usually recommend avoiding abrasive pads or strong bleach-based products, as these can gradually dull protective surface coatings over time.

Can you use bleach on a shower tray?

Occasional diluted bleach may be suitable for some shower trays, but repeated use of harsh chemicals can damage protective finishes and silicone seals.

Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before using strong cleaning products.

Why does my shower tray feel slippery?

Soap residue, limescale, shampoo build-up, and hard water deposits can all reduce grip on a shower tray surface.

Regular cleaning and anti-slip coatings can help improve safety.

How do you remove a shower tray?

Removing a shower tray can range from a straightforward DIY job to a more demanding project depending on how the tray was originally installed.

Raised trays fitted on riser legs are usually easier to remove because the waste and pipework can normally be accessed underneath. Low-profile stone resin trays are often more difficult because they are commonly bedded onto mortar or strong adhesive.

Before removing a shower tray:

1. Turn off the water supply to the shower
2. Remove the shower enclosure or screen if required
3. Cut through all silicone sealant around the tray edges
4. Disconnect the waste fitting carefully
5. Protect nearby flooring and tiles before lifting the tray

Stone resin trays may crack during removal, particularly if they have been strongly bonded to the floor. In most renovation projects this is fairly normal, especially when the tray is being replaced rather than reused.

It’s also important to inspect the subfloor once the tray has been removed. Any signs of water damage, loose floorboards, or rotten timber should be repaired before fitting a replacement tray.

For a full step-by-step guide covering tray removal, waste disconnection, lifting techniques, and subfloor preparation, see our guide on how to remove a shower tray.

How do you unblock a shower tray waste?

Most shower tray blockages are caused by hair and soap build-up.

To unblock a shower tray:

1. Remove the waste cover
2. Clear visible debris
3. Flush with hot water
4. Use a suitable drain cleaner if required
5. Check the waste trap underneath if accessible

In many cases, physically removing the blockage is safer for stone resin trays than repeatedly pouring strong chemical cleaners down the waste.

Why is my shower tray not draining properly?

Slow drainage is usually caused by:

• Hair blockages
• Soap residue build-up
• Incorrect waste pipe fall
• Poor installation
• Inadequate waste flow rate
• Limescale build-up inside the trap

High-pressure rainfall showers often require high-flow 90mm wastes to cope with increased water output.

In some cases, customers mistake small amounts of retained water for poor drainage. However, tiny droplets can sometimes remain on stone resin or slate-effect trays because of surface tension and the way water interacts with textured finishes.

If water pools significantly in one area, this usually indicates the tray has not been levelled correctly during installation.

Do shower trays crack easily?

A well-made shower tray should last for many years without cracking, provided it has been properly supported and installed correctly from the start.

Most cracks occur because of poor support underneath the tray, movement in the floor structure, or accidental impact damage.

Why is my shower tray creaking?

Creaking is usually caused by insufficient support beneath the tray or movement in the floor underneath.

Ensuring the tray is properly bedded and fully supported is essential to prevent flexing and long-term damage.

Can shower trays stain?

Lower quality trays can become stained over time from hard water deposits, soap residue, hair dye, or harsh cleaning chemicals.

Premium gel-coated stone resin trays are generally far more stain resistant because the protective surface layer is designed to resist everyday bathroom products and moisture.

To help prevent staining:

• Rinse the tray regularly
• Avoid leaving cleaning chemicals sitting on the surface
• Clean away soap residue frequently
• Avoid abrasive scouring pads
• Remove standing hair dye or tanning products quickly

Slate effect trays may require slightly more regular cleaning than smooth gloss trays because textured finishes can hold residue more easily.

Which shower tray finish is easiest to keep clean?

Smooth gel-coated stone resin trays are usually among the easiest to maintain because water drains away more effectively and soap residue is less likely to cling to the surface.

Are black and slate effect shower trays popular?

Yes. Slate effect and matte-finish shower trays have become increasingly popular in contemporary UK bathrooms.

Brands such as Novellini, Kudos, Scudo, and MStone all offer slate effect shower trays in colours including white, anthracite, black, and grey stone finishes.

Slate effect trays have become especially popular in UK bathroom renovations because they pair well with brushed brass fittings, black-framed shower screens, and large-format porcelain tiles.

What’s the difference between white and slate effect shower trays?

White trays offer a clean timeless appearance, while slate effect trays create a more textured, natural stone-inspired finish.

Slate effect trays are especially popular in luxury walk-in bathrooms and modern wetroom designs.

What waste size do I need for a shower tray?

Most modern shower trays now use a 90mm waste because it allows faster drainage and reduces the risk of overflow.

High-flow wastes are particularly important for rainfall and high-pressure shower systems, especially when paired with larger trays such as 1700mm shower trays and oversized walk-in enclosures.

Do all shower trays include a waste?

No. Some shower trays are supplied with a compatible waste included, while others require the waste kit to be purchased separately.

Always check the individual product description before ordering.

Can shower trays be installed upstairs?

Yes. Shower trays are commonly installed in upstairs en-suites and family bathrooms.

The most important consideration is ensuring the floor structure is strong enough to support the tray and user weight.

What’s the best shower tray for a loft conversion?

Lightweight shower trays are often a practical choice for loft conversions because they place less strain on upper floor joists and are easier to manoeuvre into tight spaces.

Are shower tray riser kits worth it?

Riser kits can make installation significantly easier where pipework cannot easily be recessed into the floor.

They also allow easier future access to plumbing and waste connections.

Can shower trays be fitted flush to the floor?

Yes. Many slimline stone resin trays and wetroom trays are designed specifically for flush-to-floor installation.

This creates a sleek minimalist appearance and improves accessibility.

What’s the best shower tray for elderly users?

Low-profile anti-slip trays with easy step-in access are often the safest option for elderly users.

Wetroom-style installations can further improve accessibility by removing stepping hazards completely.

How long should a shower tray last?

A high-quality shower tray can last 15–25 years or longer when installed correctly and properly maintained.

Premium stone resin trays from brands such as Novellini, Kudos, MX, Ajax, and Scudo are designed with long-term durability in mind and are commonly used in both family bathrooms and higher-end renovation projects.

From an installation perspective, one of the biggest differences between premium and budget trays is usually the rigidity underneath the tray. Better-quality trays tend to flex less over time, which helps reduce movement around seals and lowers the risk of leaks developing in the future.