Whatever the size of the bathroom, the shower area is often considered essential and today everyone dreams of a walk- in shower , with no edges or steps to cross to access the shower tray. . Recessing it into the ground is not always possible, there are alternatives that remain in the spirit of the walk-in shower and allow you to benefit from a spacious, safe and comfortable shower!
Built-in shower tray
It’s the real walk-in shower, with level access to the shower tray. The installation of the receiver requires clearing a space on the ground to embed it while housing the evacuations with a sufficient slope. Given the installation constraints, it is advisable to install a built-in shower tray when building the accommodation or during a complete renovation of the bathroom. Many finishes are available: the shower tray can be covered with tiles or mosaic, or in mineral resin with a “material” effect such as concrete, in ceramic, etc.
Free-standing shower tray
Easier to install than built-in models, this type of tray is placed either directly on the ground or raised (on a base) to allow connection to the water drain. The advantage of the tray to ask is that it does not require masonry work to be installed. It is therefore the ideal solution for renovation. Even if the access to the shower is not on the same level, there are extra-flat models (between 3 and 5 cm in height) which make it possible to limit the height to be crossed.
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In the past, shower trays or trays were, most of the time, enamelled ceramic and square in shape. Since then, the shower has become essential in the bathroom and has taken its place there. We now find them in 140 x 80 cm, and even more when the shower replaces the bathtub.
New materials have also appeared, widening the choice of possibilities. Elegant, the mineral resin shower trays offer a look similar to that of stone and generous dimensions, to create large shower spaces. Tileable tubs, which allow customization in terms of shape, size or aesthetics, are also experiencing a real craze.
Also called ceramic, it is the material traditionally used in the manufacture of shower trays. Its enamel surface is very easy to maintain and there are now non-slip models. Glazed stoneware being a heavy material, the installation of a ceramic tray requires a solid floor.
Finally, in terms of dimensions and colours, the choice is somewhat limited: most trays of this type are only available in white ceramic and do not exceed 140 cm in length.
Much lighter than its glazed stoneware counterpart, the acrylic shower tray comes in square, rectangular or rounded shapes, in small or large formats (up to 170 cm). However, its dimensions remain standard and on the color side, white dominates.
However, the high-end models can be offered in various colors.
Mineral resin, also called synthetic resin, is the ideal material for creating large shower spaces. Extra-flat (only 3 cm thick) and very resistant, mineral resin shower trays are available in various colors and surface finishes, some of which perfectly imitate stone, concrete or wood. Choosing the most suitable product for the available surface is all the easier since these shower trays are available in many sizes. Some models can even be cut, for a perfect integration. And at the top of the range, it is possible to have them made to measure.
The tileable shower tray is the most customizable solution. Composed of an extruded polystyrene structure covered with a veil of cement, it is ideal for creating a walk-in shower, the slope for the flow of water being already integrated. The tileable shower tray is available in different formats and can also be cut to fit precisely into the available space. Lightweight and between 3 and 5 cm thick, it can be recessed into the ground or placed on a base. In terms of decoration, everything is possible: you can cover it either with a mosaic or with non-slip tiles. Attention, it must be installed in compliance with the rules of the art, in order to guarantee a perfect seal.
Rectangular trays are a good compromise between ease and measured size. The most classic model is 120 x 80 cm. Large versions (up to 180 cm) also exist: they are preferred if you want to replace your bathtub with a shower.
In any case, know how to make the most of the available space and don’t hesitate to take inspiration from our clever layout solutions!