How to Choose a Shower Tray: The Complete Buying Guide

Introduction

The shower tray is the foundation of your shower — quite literally. Choosing the right one affects how your shower looks, how it feels underfoot, how easy it is to install, and how long it lasts. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose the perfect shower tray for your bathroom.

Step 1: Get the Shape Right

Shower trays are available in four main shapes. The shape you choose should match both your shower enclosure and the layout of your bathroom.

• Square — equal-length sides (e.g. 800mm × 800mm or 900mm × 900mm). Works well in corner installations with quadrant or corner entry enclosures.
• Rectangle — one longer side (e.g. 1200mm × 800mm or 1400mm × 900mm). Ideal for sliding door enclosures or walk-in wetroom configurations.
• Quadrant — a quarter-circle shape that fits neatly into a bathroom corner. Pairs with quadrant shower enclosures.
• Offset Quadrant — similar to a quadrant but with unequal sides, giving more showering space. Pairs with offset quadrant enclosures.

Step 2: Choose the Right Size

Shower tray size directly affects comfort. As a guide:

• 700mm × 700mm — the minimum practical size; suitable for very compact spaces
• 800mm × 800mm — the most popular size; comfortable for most users
• 900mm × 900mm or larger — a more spacious feel; recommended where space allows
• 1200mm+ rectangular trays — ideal for walk-in or sliding door showers

Always measure your available floor space carefully before selecting a size, and ensure the tray dimensions match your chosen enclosure exactly.

Step 3: Select the Right Material

Stone Resin (Natural Stone)

Stone resin trays are the premium choice and the material used across our Nuie and Merlyn ranges. Key benefits include:

• Solid, rigid feel — no flex underfoot, which feels more substantial and reduces wear over time
• Excellent durability — resistant to cracking, chipping, and discolouration
• Warm to the touch — more comfortable than acrylic, especially in cooler months
• Low maintenance — easy to clean and resistant to staining
• Minimum 5-year manufacturer's guarantee on our range

Acrylic

Acrylic trays are lightweight and budget-friendly. They're easier to handle during installation but can flex slightly underfoot and may be more prone to surface wear over time. A good option for lower-traffic bathrooms or rental properties.

Step 4: Consider the Profile Height

Shower tray height (or profile) affects both the look of your shower and ease of access.

• Low-profile trays (40–45mm) — the modern standard. Sit close to the floor for a sleek, contemporary look. Easier to step into, making them a good choice for accessibility.
• Standard-profile trays (90–120mm) — sit higher off the floor, which can make plumbing easier in some installations but creates a step to enter.

Low-profile trays are the most popular choice for new bathroom installations and renovations.

Step 5: Check the Waste Position

The waste outlet position on the tray must align with your existing plumbing — or your plumber needs to know the position in advance so pipework can be routed accordingly. Common waste positions include:

• Centre waste — the most common and flexible option
• Corner waste — useful where central plumbing access is restricted
• Offset waste — positioned toward one end of the tray

Always confirm the waste position with your installer before purchasing.

Step 6: Don't Forget the Leg Kit

Most stone resin shower trays are supplied without a leg kit. A leg and plinth set raises the tray off the floor to allow for waste pipework routing and provides a neat, finished appearance around the base. Leg kits are sold separately — check compatibility with your chosen tray before ordering.

Step 7: Delivery and Installation

Stone resin trays are significantly heavier than acrylic alternatives — larger trays can weigh 30–60kg or more. Plan for two people to handle installation. Our trays are normally dispatched within 3 working days, with free shipping to most of the UK mainland.

Quick Reference: Which Shower Tray Do You Need?

• Corner shower with quadrant enclosure? → Quadrant or offset quadrant tray
• Sliding door or walk-in shower? → Rectangular tray (1200mm+)
• Standard corner or alcove shower? → Square tray (800mm × 800mm recommended)
• Premium feel and long-term durability? → Stone resin tray
• Accessible, easy-entry shower? → Low-profile tray (40–45mm)

Need help choosing the right tray for your bathroom? Contact our team at info@kwbathrooms.co.uk or call 0203 750 0025 — we're always happy to help.