How to fit a shower tray? A step-by-step guide

Want to save on your renovation and planning to install the shower tray yourself? Don’t worry, it’s not that difficult! If you keep a few basics in mind, you’ll handle it quickly and smoothly. How do you install a shower tray? Discover our short step-by-step guide and be inspired!

Step 1: Preparing the tools

It’s hard to carry out any work without the right tools. So before you get started, make sure you have everything you need to hand. What to remember? Essentials include:

• shower tray — sized to the space and to the needs of its future users;
• trap and waste pipes — sized to the tray and the bathroom plumbing;
• spirit level — with a length similar to the tray’s dimensions;
• sanitary silicone — depending on your aesthetic preference: clear or in a colour matching the tray or the grout in the bathroom;
• drill and drill bits — charged and with adequate power;
• screws and wall plugs — buy them beforehand if they’re not included with the tray;
• pipe wrench — sized to your home’s existing plumbing;
• tape measure — to help precisely align the individual components.

Step 2: Preparing the area

Before installation, make sure the place where the tray will stand meets the necessary requirements. This surface must be water-resistant and level, which you can check with a spirit level. Also make sure it’s clean, so the components you install in this area will seat properly.

Step 3: Positioning the tray

Place the tray in its intended position to make sure it really fits, then fit the legs supplied with the kit. Use a spirit level to make sure it’s level. If it’s not, be sure to adjust the height of the legs. After making adjustments, check again with the spirit level that it’s now correct. Don’t skip this step — efficient drainage while showering depends on it. All good? Set the tray aside for a moment so you can install the trap.

Step 4: Installing the trap

Installing a shower tray won’t be possible if you don’t first ensure water can drain away. That’s why you should start with the trap. Make sure it’s watertight (for example under running water at the basin) and well matched to the waste. Next, match the waste pipe to the plumbing in the wall, then connect it to the trap. After installing the trap, place the tray in its final position to check everything fits.

Step 5: Securing the tray

If everything lines up and the tray is level, it’s time to fix it permanently. With a low-profile shower tray, start by connecting the upper and lower parts of the trap. Be sure to perform a leak test by pouring about a litre of water into the waste. Wipe the entire trap and pipe from underneath with a dry, clean cloth or a piece of paper — if any drops of water appear, it means the assembly is leaking and needs adjustment. If everything is fine, move on. Fix the legs to the floor permanently using silicone, encircling their bases with a small amount of it. This will stop them from shifting. Then weigh the tray down, e.g. with a bucket of water, so it stays put, and move on to fitting the side panel.

Step 6: Sealing

Once the tray is secured, apply sanitary silicone around the edges of the tray to prevent water leaking. Make sure it’s applied evenly and neatly, and that it adheres well to the surface. Now it’s time for a break — as per the instructions on the silicone, wait for it to dry properly.

Step 7: Testing

When the silicone has cured, it’s time for the big test. Run water into the tray and check for any leaks. Everything in order? Time to finish up!

Step 8: Finalising

Clean the tray so it’s ready for use. This is also the point at which you should install the shower enclosure, if one is planned. And that’s it — enjoy your newly installed shower tray!

The above step-by-step tips will make your job much easier. Good luck!