A guide to different types of shower trays for your bathroom

A shower tray, also known as a shower base or shower pan, is the foundation of a shower enclosure or system. It is a waterproof surface that catches and drains water from the shower. A shower tray is important to the experience of showering as it provides stability and comfort, allowing you to fully relax and unwind. It also helps to keep your bathroom clean and dry. Choosing the right type of shower tray will help you have the best showering experience possible, day in and day out.

When considering shower trays for the first time you always have to start with size. For obvious reasons, the right sized shower tray is essential when it comes to shower design and you’ll want to have a strong understanding of the standard sizes available as well as the variations that exist to ensure you don’t make any unfortunate mistakes with your measurements.

Standard shower tray dimensions

Standard shower tray dimensions range from 700mm x 700mm to 900mm x 900mm based on a square model and design, fitting with many standard shower enclosures and spaces you'll find in bathrooms across New Zealand. These are very readily available and if you’re looking for a quick and simple solution, anything in and around these dimensions will serve you perfectly well.

Large shower tray dimensions

Outside of the standard shower tray dimensions, there is a lot of variation too, especially with premium products designed for larger and more luxurious bathrooms. With these options, you'll often find rectangular models measuring anywhere from 1,000mm x 1,200mm to 1,000mm x 1,800mm. These are more typically for walk in showers which provide a great feeling of open space helping one create the feeling of a bathroom sanctuary.

As already alluded to when discussing sizing, there is also a wide range of shower tray shapes available too. Again, this is largely the result of innovation and development in bathroom design which opens up some interesting possibilities for your own bathroom renovation.

Square shower trays

Square shower trays are the most common shape for shower trays found in the market in New Zealand. They are great because they fit nicely and snugly into bathroom spaces and are easy to install. If you’re thinking about an option for a small bathroom a square shower tray will be one of the choices at the top of your list.

Rectangular shower trays

Rectangular trays have become increasingly popular over the years due to their versatility and capacity to provide more bathroom space. They can be used with either corner or alcove enclosures, depending on your bathroom style. Rectangular shower trays offer an extended view and perspective forward which can be very relaxing.

Quadrant shower trays

A quadrant shower tray is a corner-shaped model with a curved front that provides a sleek and modern look to your bathroom. It fits neatly into alcove showers while saving valuable floor space practically as well as visually. Again, a great option for small contemporary bathrooms. You'll also find offset quadrant shower trays which differ by having one side longer than the other.

Pentagon shower trays

Pentagon shower trays are a great way to create a unique look in your bathroom. They are most commonly used for corner enclosures and can again help you make the most of small or awkwardly shaped bathrooms.

The material you choose is crucial for both practical and aesthetic reasons. It not only has an important waterproofing responsibility but a visual and tactile one too. The options for materials have steadily increased over the years thanks to a variety of design and manufacturing innovations making it a great time to be making a purchase.

Acrylic shower trays

Acrylic and ABS shower trays (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) are lightweight and easy to install. They are waterproof, durable, and typically come in a variety of colours, designs, shapes and sizes. An acrylic shower tray will be resistant to chipping and cracking, and be easy to clean.

Ceramic shower trays

Ceramic shower trays are more durable than acrylic trays and provide a classic look to your bathroom. They are also highly scratch resistant and heat resistant, making them an excellent option for family bathrooms.

Stone shower trays

Stone shower trays are a great choice for people looking for a luxurious solution. They come in different colours and finishes, adding an element of style and sophistication to your bathroom. Stone is also strong and durable, making it the perfect option for busy bathrooms.

Stone resin shower trays

Stone resin trays offer the best of both worlds—they are strong and durable like ceramic trays but are also lightweight and easy to install like acrylic trays. A stone resin shower tray can come in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes and are resistant to mould, discolouration and fading.

Wooden shower trays

Wooden shower trays add a rustic and natural feeling to your bathroom. They are generally made of cedar or teak wood, which is both waterproof and highly durable. However, these materials can be expensive and require regular maintenance. Still, they look and feel exquisite.

Steel shower trays

Steel shower trays are great for people looking for a modern, industrial-style look. Stainless steel is strong, durable and highly resistant to corrosion, making it the perfect choice for bathrooms with heavy use.

Tile over shower trays

Tile over shower trays are a great way to customise the look of your bathroom. They allow you to choose from a wide range of tiles and apply them directly onto the waterproof tray (usually steel) for a unique, one-of-a-kind design. Tile over trays can require more regular maintenance to keep them looking their best but they can add a very personal touch to your space.

Last but not least, there are multiple styles of shower trays to consider which introduce altogether different features and benefits to further enhance and elevate the showering experience and improve your bathroom styling.

Low profile shower trays

Low profile shower trays are becoming more and more popular thanks to their sleek and modern aesthetic. They're designed for minimalism, with a slightly raised lip that's barely noticeable – perfect for creating a contemporary look in your bathroom.

Raised shower trays

Raised shower trays are a great way to add a touch of luxury and create a more spa-like feel in your bathroom. These raised models feature slightly elevated edges that offer superior style, comfort, and safety.

Walk in shower trays

Walk in shower trays are perfect for creating a luxurious and inviting spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom. These models feature a sloped edge that allows you to walk directly into the shower without having to step up or over any edges.

Wet room shower trays

Wet room trays are ideal for giving your bathroom a modern and contemporary look. Their design is best described as a flat, level surface that allows the shower water to drain away without the need for a raised lip or wall. These models are designed to be completely waterproof, allowing you to create an open-plan wet floor throughout the entire bathroom.

Related article: Bath vs shower - water usage, cleanliness and other FAQs

So, as you can see there are many different types of shower trays to choose from each with its own advantages and benefits that can add real value to your bathroom and showering experience. Once you know how much space you have to work with, you can focus on combinations of the other elements and hone in on the best shower tray for you and the household, serving you for many years to come.