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

Key information at a glance

• First, prepare the area and check whether the base is level.
• Always test the trap for leaks before final installation.
• The shower tray must be perfectly level.
• Silicone sealing determines whether there will be any leaks.
• After installation, carry out a water test before use.

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1. How should you prepare the tools and components for installation?

Preparation means gathering all the necessary components and checking that they fit the installation. Without this, the installation will be interrupted, and the risk of mistakes will increase significantly.

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need within reach. This will help you avoid situations where you have to stop halfway through the job.

The most important items are:

• a shower tray sized to fit the space,
• a trap and drain pipes compatible with the installation,
• a spirit level to check positioning,
• sanitary silicone for sealing,
• basic tools (wrenches, drill, measuring tape).

A well-prepared workspace lets you focus on precision rather than searching for missing parts.

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2. Does the base under the shower tray need to be perfectly level?

Yes, the base must be level and stable because it ensures the shower tray is properly seated. Even small irregularities can cause problems with water drainage.

Before placing the shower tray, check the surface carefully. This is a stage that is often overlooked, yet it has a huge impact on the final result.

Pay attention to:

• the level of the base (checked with a spirit level),
• the absence of dirt and dust,
• proper preparation of the area for the drain,
• access to the drainage installation.

If the surface is not level, the shower tray may wobble or cause water to pool.

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3. Positioning the shower tray – what determines the correct level?

Correct positioning of the shower tray means levelling it accurately and matching it to the installation. This is one of the key stages that affects user comfort.

First, position the shower tray “dry” to check whether it fits the space. Only then should you move on to adjustment.

While positioning it:

• install and adjust the feet,
• check the level in several directions,
• match the height to the drain,
• make sure the shower tray is stable.

Accurate levelling eliminates drainage problems and increases the durability of the entire structure.

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4. Trap installation – where do mistakes most often occur?

Installing the trap means making a watertight connection between the shower tray and the drainage system. This is the stage where leaks most often occur.

Before installing the shower tray permanently, it is worth checking the trap separately. This is a simple step that helps avoid problems later.

When installing the trap:

• make sure the seals are properly seated,
• tighten the components carefully,
• fit the drain pipe to the installation,
• carry out a preliminary leak test.

A leaking trap means the tray will need to be dismantled, so it is better to check it earlier.

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5. Fixing the shower tray – what should you do to make it stable?

Fixing means securing the shower tray firmly in place and protecting it from moving. It is not about force, but about precision and the correct order of actions.

After positioning and connecting the shower tray, make sure everything is properly fitted. Only then should you move on to stabilising it.

At this stage:

• connect the trap components,
• carry out a water test,
• secure the feet (e.g. with silicone),
• weigh the shower tray down so it does not move.

A stable structure guarantees comfortable use.

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6. Sealing the shower tray – why must this step not be skipped?

Sealing protects against water getting outside the shower tray. This is the stage that directly affects the protection of the bathroom. After all, the aim is to prevent water from escaping the tray and flooding the room.

Applying silicone requires accuracy and patience. Rushing at this stage is the most common mistake.

While sealing:

• apply silicone evenly along the edges,
• smooth the joint for a better finish,
• remove any excess,
• leave it to dry completely.

Well-done sealing protects against leaks.

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Final test – how do you check whether everything works properly?

The test involves checking the watertightness and the drain operation before starting to use the shower. This is the last, but very important stage.

Do not skip it, even if everything looks good. Water will quickly reveal any mistakes.

Check:

• whether there are any leaks under the shower tray,
• whether the water drains away properly,
• whether the structure is stable,
• whether the silicone seals the edges properly.

If everything works properly, you can use the shower with confidence.

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Checklist: shower tray installation step by step

Before you finish the job, make sure that all stages have been completed correctly. This is a quick check that gives you confidence that nothing has been overlooked.

• The base is level and prepared.
• The shower tray has been levelled.
• The trap is watertight.
• The sealing has been done carefully.
• The final test showed no leaks.

Thanks to this list, you can be sure that the installation has been completed correctly.

A well-chosen shower tray and installation accessories make installation much easier and reduce the risk of mistakes. In the Łazienka Rea range, you will find models suited to different spaces and components that help ensure proper installation.

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FAQ

Does a shower tray always have to be installed on feet?

No, installation on a built-in base is also possible, but it requires proper preparation of the subfloor.

Can silicone be replaced with another material?

No, sanitary silicone performs best in wet conditions.

Does shower tray installation require drilling into the floor?

Not always. In many cases, stabilisation with silicone or a frame is sufficient.

Does the shower tray need to be insulated from the base?

In some situations, yes, especially with low-profile models and linear drains.