In recent years, showers have become an integral part of our lives. They are an alternative to bathtubs in cramped rooms, helping to free up some space, or they become a plumbing addition in spacious toilet rooms, making water procedures more varied. One of the components of a shower box is a tray. In this article we will look in detail at the features of manufacturing shower trays, the shapes and sizes of structures. We’ll also tell you what you need to pay attention to when choosing a pallet model.
Plumbing manufacturers offer a wide range of pallets of various shapes and sizes
Functional purpose of shower trays
The tray in shower box designs performs several important functions. First of all, it protects the floor covering in the room from moisture. In addition, it is necessary from a hygiene point of view, as it provides reliable protection against mold and mildew, which often form in the joints between the wall and the floor. The presence of a tray in the shower stall eliminates the need to violate the integrity of the interior of the room. The shower walls are attached to it, a drainage system is installed in it, and it also prevents your feet from coming into contact with the cold floor while taking water procedures.
The presence of a bowl ensures practicality and sanitary safety
Related article:
Shower cabin with bath. Design features, advantages and disadvantages of use, what you need to pay attention to when purchasing a product, a review of popular models, customer reviews, expert opinions - in our publication.
Kinds
In the process of choosing plumbing installations, it is important to determine the correct parameters of each component element. Manufacturers offer a wide selection of shower cabins with different trays, which are classified by depth, shape, material, and cost.
By size and depth
Each line of pallets is presented in classic sizes. It is easy to match them with fencing and doors of any brand. The minimum parameters of a pallet are 70 x 70 cm, the maximum are 130 x 130 cm. The length and width dimensions increase by a multiple of 10 cm. If you decide on non-standard dimensions, then first think about the dimensions of the fences, which are more difficult to choose. If you are financially able, you can order individual plumbing fixtures, which will be manufactured according to the designer’s design.
Taking into account the depth of the pallet, the following options are presented:
- Deep products include products from 250 mm and more. Such models are most often presented in semicircular and angular shapes.
- A design of 100-180 mm is considered shallow.
- Flat pallets with a height of no more than 100 mm. Such models are ideal for children who often do not look where they are going. Also for older people who are not comfortable getting into the bathroom every time.
By material
- The most popular material is acrylic . The material is characterized by lightness, attractive appearance, is easy to repair, clean and lasts from 10 to 15 years. Pallets of any shape and size are created from this material.
- Cast iron will last twice as long as acrylic, but it heats up more slowly and cools down more slowly. Such models have a lot of weight and a small choice of shapes.
- Ceramic models do not warm up immediately, but they provide insulation from dripping onto the tray. This material will last a long time if you treat it with care.
- Pallets made of quaril appeared not so long ago, but due to the presence of quartz in the composition, the wear resistance, strength and durability of the product increase. With proper care, the original shine of the product is preserved.
- Products made from natural stone are an expensive option, which is characterized by strength, wear resistance and durability. This product is not susceptible to external influences and remains smooth, but not slippery. Guarantees sound insulation. Most choose marble, but porcelain stoneware allows you to save a little.
Firm
When choosing a manufacturer of plumbing fixtures, it is worth considering the service life of the products. German (Villeroy&Boch, Catalano) and Italian plumbing fixtures (Flaminia) remain of high quality, but they will cost more than domestic or the same high-quality Chinese ones. The choice directly depends on the capabilities of consumers. A cheaper option from Spain is the company Roca, but the quality is appropriate.
Price
The cost of the product directly depends on the choice of pallet material and the presence of additional functionality, for example, lighting.
The most expensive product is considered to be made from natural stone. The cheapest steel models cost from 3,000 rubles, acrylic products from China cost 3-5 thousand rubles. Czech and German manufacturers offer products made of artificial stone, as well as ceramics, for an average of 30 thousand rubles.
Form
Depending on the box shape, the following pallet options are available:
- rectangular;
- square;
- radius;
- pentagonal.
With such a variety, it’s easy to choose the best option for a small room or a spacious room. If the soul desires something original, then non-standard solutions are offered - oval, polygonal, round and asymmetrical pallets. But to implement such projects, more space is needed; some companies are ready to work to order based on individual sketches.
What materials are used to make shower trays?
When planning to buy a shower tray, you first need to decide on the material from which it is made. The main performance characteristics that materials must have are thermal insulation, wear resistance and resistance to mechanical damage. It is also important that the product is easy and convenient to wash during use.
Advantages and disadvantages of cast iron shower trays
Cast iron has long been used for the manufacture of plumbing products. It is extremely durable and wear-resistant, able to withstand heavy loads, so it is recommended to purchase pallets made from this material for people with a large body weight. Cast iron takes a long time to heat up, but it also retains heat for a long time. The disadvantages of the design include the heavy weight and slippery surface of the pallets. For safe use, the surface is corrugated and a special anti-slip coating is applied.
The presence of corrugation on the bottom does not violate the integrity of the cast iron structure
When manufacturing cast iron shower trays, certain requirements are met, which are reflected in GOST 18297-96. According to regulatory documents, cast iron products are coated with impact-resistant enamel, have standard sizes and are divided into three grades. The price of cast iron shower trays of the same sizes varies depending on the type of alloy.
Features of manufacturing acrylic structures
Products made from acrylic are very popular among consumers. The production technology of acrylic shower trays allows you to create structures of any shape and size.
The aesthetic properties of acrylic are highly valued
Hydromassage nozzles can be installed in acrylic structures, which will make the tray suitable not only for washing feet, but also provide a good massage effect. Acrylic products can last up to 15 years if you follow simple operating rules.
Important! Acrylic products should be washed with special gentle products, as chemical reagents will corrode the material.
Acrylic is not highly resistant to mechanical damage. But structural repairs are not difficult. Scratches are sanded and covered with a special paste.
Acrylic is the most suitable material for the manufacture of hydromassage products
Steel shower trays
The production of enameled steel products is focused on use in public places (baths, swimming pools, hotels, and so on). This is due to their wear resistance and low price of individual models. Below is an overview of prices for steel shower trays of standard size 90x90 cm from different manufacturers.
| Model name | Manufacturer country | Dimensions, L×W×H, cm | Warranty period, years | Average price (as of June 2021), rub. |
| China | 90×90×16 | 1 | 1700 |
| Portugal | 90×90×14,5 | 1 | 3050 |
| Spain | 90×90×16 | 1 | 3200 |
| Russia | 90×90×16 | 1 | 2900 |
| Germany | 90×90×15 | 30 | 8100 |
The disadvantages of steel products are high noise levels and high thermal conductivity. The technology for producing steel models does not allow them to be equipped with legs and supports, so you will have to purchase them separately.
Stiffening ribs on the bottom strengthen the structure and at the same time provide an anti-slip effect
Other materials of manufacture
Products made from natural and artificial stone are highly durable. These are environmentally friendly materials that retain heat well, do not slip and meet the highest aesthetic requirements of customers. But they are not cheap, and the installation of such structures causes some difficulties.
Stone pallets are heavy
Ceramic products have high aesthetic properties; they go well with the interior decoration of the bathroom. The disadvantage is very low impact resistance. Even an object of small size and weight falling onto a porcelain tray can cause a chip or crack. It will be impossible to neutralize a defect that appears as a result of mechanical damage.
Products made from porcelain and earthenware have a unique glossy shine
Wooden pallets have an attractive appearance, they are natural and safe to use. Such pallets fit harmoniously into the interior of country houses and baths. But wood is not a moisture-resistant material; to protect it from swelling and fungus, it must be regularly treated with a special compound.
Even with high-quality care, wooden shower bowls last no more than 5 years
Existing sizes
There are various types of pallets on the market with sizes ranging from 60x60 cm to 170x130 cm and more. The smallest one is suitable for installing or upgrading a bathroom in a small apartment. The dimensions of shower trays from 70×70 to 100×80 cm are considered standard.
An important parameter is the depth, according to which products are divided into:
- small, from 2 to 5 cm;
- medium, from 5 to 10 cm;
- deep from 10 to 18 cm.
Due to the variety of dimensions, it is possible to choose an option that does not interfere with the interior design.
Types of shower trays depending on shape and size
Plumbing manufacturers make pallets of various shapes and sizes: from small square ones to fancy designer models. The choice of shape and size depends on the dimensions of the room where the shower is planned to be installed, as well as on who will use it and how. It will be inconvenient for a large person to use a square shower tray measuring 70x70 cm, and in a small bathroom with an area of 2.5 m² there is no room for large structures.
Standard sizes of square and rectangular shower trays
Square pallets are the most commonly used. They are popular due to the ability to be installed in different parts of the room. They can be installed adjacent to the wall on one side, in a niche of the room or in a corner. Standard dimensions of structures start from 70x70 cm and reach a side width of 1.5 m.
Rectangular structures are usually chosen in two cases. First, if two people will use the shower at the same time. Also, rectangular trays are chosen if you plan to use a shower cabin in the bathroom instead of a bathtub. In this case, purchase a bowl with high sides. The dimensions of the tray can be close to a square shape (90×70 cm) or correspond to the standard dimensions of bathtubs (150×80, 170×90 cm).
The rectangular shower room is convenient for bathing a child
Corner pallets
Corner structures have several modifications. For angular placement, pentagonal and radial models are chosen. The pentagonal tray is a square with a beveled corner, the radial design has the shape of a quarter circle. The table below provides an overview of popular corner models.
| Model | Manufacturer country | Material of manufacture | Dimensions, L×W×H, cm | Average price (as of June 2021), rub. |
| Russia | Acrylic | 80×80×15 | 4100 |
| River 90 | China | Acrylic | 90×90×15 | 4200 |
| Russia | Acrylic | 90×90×23,4 | 4900 |
| Germany-China | Plastic | 100×100×14 | 5800 |
| Germany | Artificial marble | 100×100×3,5 | 11900 |
Asymmetrical products and models of complex shapes
The most common asymmetrical shape is a rectangle, one corner of which is rounded. This shape is often used to make deep shower trays used as a bathtub. The rounded corner helps save space in small spaces. For exclusive design projects, shower trays are made to order. Depending on the designer’s intentions, products can be semicircular, multifaceted, trapezoidal, etc.
Available pallet shapes
The stores offer the following forms of products:
- square, the most popular sizes are 80, 90 and 100 cm;
- rectangular, sizes ranging from 90x70 to 170x90 cm;
- angular, it is characterized by the same length of sides from 80 × 80 to 150 × 150 cm;
- pentahedron, similar to a square one, but with one corner cut off;
- asymmetrical, similar to angular, but with different lengths of the sides. Typical sizes are from 80 to 150 cm.
All forms are characterized by the ability to occupy a corner of the bathroom.
Deep shower trays - advantages of using
The depth of the shower tray depends on the height of its sides. In a modern minimalist interior, sophisticated designs with low side heights or their complete absence look harmonious. However, such models are good if there is a full bath in the house at the same time.
If the shower cabin is the only plumbing equipment for taking water procedures, then it is recommended to choose a deep shower bowl. It is more practical to use, as it makes it possible to wash small items and bathe the child. And if there are appropriate dimensions in such a tray, even an adult can enjoy taking a bath. The depth of the structure can reach 45 cm, while the height of the side from the floor will be about 60 cm.
For ease of use, deep models are often equipped with a seat
Large cast iron trays: are they used for showers?
Cast iron models are used for shower stalls and corners. Due to the characteristics of the material and weight of the product, there is a meager choice of shapes on the market. Cast iron as a material is characterized by wear resistance, strength and durability.
A corrugated bottom or a special anti-slip coating are mandatory considerations when choosing a pallet made of this material.
The market offers a wide range of pallets, allowing you to take into account personal preferences, bathroom features and design projects. Having studied the selection criteria presented, it will be easier to decide on the appropriate option.
How to choose a shower tray and take into account all the nuances
Having studied all of the above design properties, you should decide which shower tray will be best for you and your family. The influence of operational properties on the choice of model is reflected in the table below.
| Characteristic | Design characteristics | Description and operating features |
| Material of manufacture | Acrylic | Average price, variety of shapes, visual appeal. Does not withstand heavy loads, so is not suitable for obese people. |
| Cast iron | Durable and durable. High rates of heat and noise insulation. The structure is heavy and therefore difficult to install. The range of products is very monotonous. | |
| Steel | A budget option, does not require careful maintenance, and can withstand heavy loads. Ideal as a summer cottage option. | |
| Stone | High aesthetic and performance properties ensure the high cost of products. | |
| Form | Corner | Suitable for small spaces as it helps save space. |
| Square | Versatile design fits almost anywhere in the room. | |
| Rectangular | Often used as a bathtub in combination with high sides. | |
| Complex | Selected for the implementation of exclusive design projects. | |
| Dimensions | Width Length | The choice depends on the availability of free space in the room and the size of the users. |
| Depth | Very deep trays are not suitable for the elderly or people with limited mobility. The small height of the sides reduces the possibility of use (bathing, washing). |
Types and features of shower cabins
Shower stalls are installed in compact bathrooms. This plumbing option allows you to save square meters. The shower stall is represented by a structure with a door, 3 - 4 walls, a tray and a roof are also present.
Depending on the presence of a roof, it is customary to distinguish the following options for shower cabins:
- open;
- closed.
Open booths
Hydroboxes of this type do not have a roof. There may also be missing walls at the back. These structures are installed on the floor or pallet. The advantage of this option is ease of installation and affordable prices. Open shower cabins have much less functionality. In addition, the steam does not linger inside the cabin. It disperses throughout the bathroom, increasing the humidity level in the room.
Usually there is no rich functionality in open-type booths. The design consists of a tray and doors (sliding, hinged). The shower panel and mixer with shower heads must be ordered separately.
The standard size of a shower cabin starts from 75 cm (length), 170 cm (height). Open type boxes can make even a small bathroom comfortable and spacious. You can order a booth without a pallet. The water is drained into the floor.
The side walls of the open model are fastened:
- to the frame;
- to a frame mounted on a pallet;
- to profile.
The partially open hydrobox (there are walls at the back, but no roof) has a shower panel with the following elements:
- watering can;
- mixer;
- massage nozzles.
Closed booths
This type of cabin has a roof. Closed hydroboxes have a number of advantages. One of them is the availability of additional features. Closed models are equipped with the following functions:
- music;
- infrared sauna;
- steam generator;
- hydromassage;
- backlight
Also a nice feature is the presence of a towel holder, mirror, and shelf. Some models have a seating area.
In a closed hydrobox, it is perfectly preserved and maintains the required temperature. The booths in question can be installed anywhere in the bathroom. You can choose the right option thanks to the large size range.
Features of installation of pallets of various shapes and sizes
The method of installing the pallet depends on the design features. Some models come with supports and a frame, but more often they have to be purchased separately. As a rule, models made of cast iron, steel, and acrylic are installed on the legs. Ceramic trays do not require additional support. There are also models that are mounted directly into the floor or into the podium.
Helpful information! To ensure proper functioning of the drain and to avoid stagnation of water, it is important that the pan is aligned strictly horizontally.
The gaps between the product and the wall should be carefully sealed. This will eliminate moisture leakage and protect against mold and mildew that may form under the structure.
Forms
The shape of the shower tray is an aspect that should also be taken into account, especially if the dimensions of your bathroom leave much to be desired. For a small bathroom, square or corner trays are suitable, which can be installed in a corner, leaving a significant space free. Absolutely all manufacturers have similar solutions, and the price of standard models is low. If your bathroom is large, then the choice is much greater - you can consider rectangular, round, oval. If you want to add originality to your bathroom, then explore models with intricate designs - polygonal or snail-shaped.
Keep in mind that it is easier to choose a fence for models of the usual shape (square, rectangular, corner). If you choose round, oval, radius options, then you will need curved walls, which are more expensive than straight ones.
What to do with height?
We have seen that the actual height of the cabin depends on the installation method. In addition, it can be adjusted within small limits by legs, if any. The plinth does not necessarily touch the floor, but can hang a few centimeters above the tiles. It all depends on the design.
To avoid all these troubles, a foundation is created from a steel profile or plastic pipes. Designed to support the weight of the cabin. This helps to carry out maintenance without dismantling and also ensures dryness. This will not only relieve complaints from neighbors, but also prevent the growth of fungus.
The frame most often comes with a deep tray by default. Therefore, most of the troubles can be traced in the case of low. Besides the fact that there is nowhere to put the pipes, there is a more obvious problem. The sewer outlet from the riser is usually located at a certain height from the floor. And if the drain hole of the pan is below this level, then the water will not leave the shower stall.
Since the outlet hole in the riser has a certain diameter, it is necessary to block it over its entire height and preferably with a margin. This is why foundation fabrication is so beneficial in this situation. There is one more purely specific point. The higher the installation height of the tray, the warmer it is to wash. It is not for nothing that in the Russian bathhouse the threshold of the steam room was made as high as possible.
Shower tray - an overview of cast iron, acrylic, wood and steel models of different sizes and shapes
The small dimensions of the bathroom do not allow for a full-fledged bathing area. In this case, people’s choice is a steel, cast iron, acrylic shower tray, the dimensions of which allow it to fit even into a very limited space. If you choose this product correctly, the bathing process will be comfortable and enjoyable.
This is a plumbing product that you stand on when taking a shower, and where water flows. It is a small structure with a bottom, sides, and a hole for draining water. The product is installed on the floor, and a shower stall is installed around it. Shower trays differ in material, size, side height, shape, and color.
The first question when purchasing this plumbing fixture is the shape. The shower tray is not only rectangular, square, but also oval, polygonal, and round. The “corner” design is very popular. Based on the height of the sides, models are divided into small (up to 4.5 cm), medium (about 10 cm), and deep (up to 18 cm and above). Another important characteristic is the material of the product:
- Acrylic. Lightweight, durable, easy to maintain and resistant to household chemicals. However, the material is easily scratched.
- Steel. Cheap, light, durable. They are losing their popularity due to their simple design, rapid yellowing of the enamel, and the creation of loud noise when water falls.
- Cast iron. Solid, resistant to strong mechanical stress, retain heat for a long time. Cons: Heavy, loud, expensive and simple in design.
- Ceramics. Attractive in appearance, inexpensive, durable, easy to care for. However, the material is easily damaged, it is heavy, and the bottom must be warmed up before taking a shower.
- Stone. Natural stone is very expensive; admirers of this material can order its artificial counterpart. It is resistant to damage, has a high level of sound insulation, and is beautiful in appearance.
- Tree. Warm, environmentally friendly, in the middle price category. However, over time, the wood grill can be damaged by fungus.
With curtains
If you want to buy such a design, you should pay attention to shower cabins or purchase the necessary elements separately. This is even more convenient, since you can choose any bottom and shower enclosure you like.
Installing a shower tray and curtains will not be a problem, since specialists will select these elements correctly. Another option is to purchase a pallet with a curtain rod on which you can hang a waterproof sheet.
For example:
- Shower corner Fresh:
- Price: 6100 rub.
- Characteristics: the design consists of two sliding doors made of frosted glass, the profile is chrome. Parameters – 80x80x192 cm.
- Pros: neat curtains with a simple design. Suitable for semicircular corner tray measuring 80x80 cm.
- Cons: Designed for one shape only.
- Shower curtain River Don:
- Price: 5600 rub. (without promotion 6400 rub.).
- Characteristics: semicircular fence with two sliding doors made of glass. The metal rollers on which the doors move are chrome-plated. Size – 90x90x147 cm.
- Pros: the design adheres well to the wall, even if the surface is uneven. The doors close tightly, so water does not get outside the curtain.
- Cons: inconvenient for tall people.
Cast iron
The cost of this type of product covers a wide range. Very simple models are priced at 10,000 rubles, expensive ones – at 56,000 rubles and above. The following products have taken leading positions:
- Recor:
- Price: 36219 rub.
- Characteristics: a cast iron product from a Portuguese company will organically fit into a sophisticated interior. The enamel is enriched with titanium ions, which provides the product with a long service life. Size – 90x90x15 cm.
- Pros: the model has an anti-slip coating. The manufacturer's warranty period is 25 years.
- Cons: high cost, siphon must be purchased separately.
- 80x80x16 (M-Planet Plumbing):
- Price: 9950 rub.
- Characteristics: Russian-made square product with anti-slip coating, material – cast iron.
- Pros: low price.
- Cons: standard design (but this is a disadvantage for those looking for something unusual), the seller does not provide information about the manufacturer and detailed specifications.
Steel enameled
Manufacturers offer products in different price categories. If you want to buy a steel pallet cheaply, pay attention to the brands Xinda, River, Practic, Laguna. They cost 1900-3000 rubles. These are standard steel models that do not differ in original shapes or special manufacturing technology. If you're looking for something more advanced, check out the following products:
- Kaldewei Duschplan Mod. 545-2:
- Price: 28540 rub.
- Characteristics: the product is made of steel with a thickness of 2.9 mm, together with enamel - 3.5 mm. Dimensions – 90x90x65 cm, weight – 24 kg. German production is a guarantee of quality. The product is impact-resistant, resistant to abrasives and acids. The base is made of polystyrene.
- Pros: exclusive design from Phoenix Design, Anti-Slip coating, 30-year warranty.
- Cons: siphon is not included, high price.
- Bette 5900:
- Price: 7300 rub.
- Characteristics: the German manufacturer offers a high-quality product measuring 90x90x15 cm. Square shape, white color. Steel thickness – 3.5 cm.
- Pros: reliable manufacturer.
- Cons: none found.
Wood
How much might this type of shower product cost? Putting a wooden model in the bathroom is not that cheap - prices start at 13,000 rubles. If you come across a sale, you will snatch a quality product at a more attractive price. An obvious advantage of the products is that the sizes of wooden shower grates can be very different. Buyers gave the palm to the following models:
- DW Ego 1300x850x40 wooden:
- Price: 11919 rub.
- Characteristics: German manufacturer Storm offers a wooden rectangular lattice made of oak. The wood is impregnated with an antiseptic substance and covered with moisture-resistant polyurethane. The installation of the shower tray is carried out on stone curbs, which are supplied in the kit, the drainage is installed in the floor under the grate.
- Pros: environmentally friendly products, long service life, high quality.
- Cons: you need to tinker with the installation of the structure.
- Wooden grating Duravit Starck X:
- Price: 17579 rub.
- Characteristics: made of teak (natural veneer), size – 1080x680 mm, weight – 11 kg. The warranty is provided for 5 years.
- Pros: stylish design, excellent quality.
- Cons: the manufacturer does not provide a detailed description of the product; the grille comes as an addition to a specific model.
Acrylic
An inexpensive assortment is presented in the Leroy Merlin store. The choice of acrylic models there is small, but they are quite affordable - the price varies between 2000-3200 rubles. If Chinese production does not bother you, you can purchase and install one of the proposed pallets. Want a more reliable product? The following models have earned the best reviews:
- Riho Zurich 248:
- Price: 11457 rub.
- Characteristics: a Czech manufacturer has released a square acrylic product measuring 80x80x4.5 cm. The model does not have an ornate design, everything is simple and concise, the color is white. The warranty is provided for 10 years.
- Pros: the lightweight model will fit into any room.
- Cons: cannot support more than 130 kg.
- Cezares Tray AH acrylic:
- Price: 10750-19170 rub. (varies depending on product size).
- Characteristics: the Italian company presented to the public a stylish rectangular model. There are 10 sizes available - from 90x80 cm to 140x90 cm, the height of the sides is the same for all products - 15 cm. The acrylic is reinforced with a metal frame, the leg mounts are height adjustable. 3 year warranty.
- Pros: a corrugated anti-slip coating is provided, a wide size grid, noiseless design, a siphon is included.
- Cons: requires very careful handling.
Ceramic
This group of products is in second place in popularity after acrylic products. The following models were the first in this category:
- Vidima:
- Price: 8396 rub.
- Characteristics: the snow-white model of Bulgarian production is made in the shape of a quarter circle. Material – ceramics. Product parameters – 80x80x11.5 cm. Weight – 36.2 kg.
- Pros: anti-slip texture, low price.
- Cons: heavy weight, no siphon included.
- Hatria Leaf YXE8:
- Price: 16046 rub.
- Characteristics: the Italian manufacturer has released a premium model. The product has a rectangular shape, white color, and a relief surface. Dimensions – 120x80x5 cm, warranty – 10 years.
- Pros: the shower product is resistant to mechanical stress and household chemicals, easy to clean, long warranty period.
- Cons: none found.
How to choose a shower tray
The purchase of this plumbing product should be carefully considered. You should familiarize yourself with the following selection criteria:
- Installation location. Here rely on the communications supply. See where it is easier to remove the drain, and depending on this, choose the shape and size of the tray.
- Safety. The slipperiest material is steel. The best option would be a product with a rough bottom or a special coating. You can purchase a wooden grate or a rubber mat for a smooth tray.
- Soundproofing. Steel models create the loudest noise, especially if they are thin. Cast iron is also loud. The quietest materials are cast marble (artificial stone), acrylic.
- Heating rate. Acrylic heats up instantly and maintains its temperature for a long time. Steel is also quite good in this regard. Cast iron slowly becomes warm, but creates comfortable conditions for swimming. Ceramics and marble are cold.
- Easy to care for. Acrylic surfaces are easiest to maintain. Ceramics are easy to damage, enameled cast iron will sooner or later become chipped, and steel will bend under the weight of the body.
- Height. In this matter, rely on personal preferences. Models with low sides are convenient for children and the elderly.
- Manufacturer. The cheapest products are Chinese, the most expensive and high-quality are Italian and German. Average price range for companies from the Czech Republic, Spain, Bulgaria, Poland.
Reviews
Lida, 23 years old
I inherited a house from my grandmother that did not have basic amenities. They allocated a small room for the bathroom, where they planned to make a shower and install a toilet. We bought an acrylic tray with a curtain rod, installed pipes, and a plumber installed a standing shower. It's a bit cramped, but you can wash yourself, you don't need anything else.
Vlad, 30 years old
For my dacha I bought acrylic from Leroy Merlin. I paid 4900 for the pallet, and also bought a glass cabin made of tempered glass. Even though it is made in China, it is made very high quality and reliably. I also bought a rubber seal to prevent leakage from below between the pan and the cabin, I heard that you can use sealant. The system has been in service for 5 years without any problems.
Rita, 31 years old
My opinion is that you should purchase a shower tray if you are on a limited budget and don’t even have room for a shower stall. Friends bought separately a pallet, a fence, and all the necessary elements. The specialists collected everything for them. The result is that the structure is leaking. We arrived and coated it with silicone. It still flows! So they tried three times to identify the problem, to no avail. It’s easier with the cabin - set it up, connect it and wash it.
Source: https://sovets.net/12410-dushevoj-poddon.html
Pallet installation features
After purchasing a pallet, you should carefully study the instructions and pay attention to the legs or supports , which are sometimes placed on steel or acrylic products. It is extremely important to get windage correct from the very beginning. Perhaps for this you will need the same bricks or cinder blocks, especially in those models where there are no such supports.
To prevent water from stagnating and easily draining into the sewer, you need to
make an angle of inclination , which is usually at least 3 degrees.
Therefore, the legs, and they are usually installed in sets of six, need to be tightened correctly and the locking bolts installed. Otherwise, the pallet must be placed on a base made of bricks , which should be filled with cement mortar, but also at a certain angle.
You will also need silicone sealant, fum tape, a mixer with a hygienic shower and a siphon, which should be included in the kit.
Procedure
- After adjusting the legs and support, the base of the pallet should be glued to the wall using special glue, which is usually also included in the kit. If you don’t have it, then Moment glue will come in handy.
- When the glue dries, the seam between the wall and the pallet should be sealed with silicone sealant to prevent excess water from getting into it in the future.
- The mixer is connected to the drain hole. In this case, it is better to immediately seal all screwed elements with fum tape . This will also avoid unnecessary leaks.
- Afterwards you need to check the tightness and let the water in. The leak will need to be fixed urgently. In this case, you need to make sure that the water drains quickly .
Installation of a homemade pallet
For your home or cottage, you can make a simpler version of the pallet and cover it with ceramic tiles. In this case, drain the water directly into the street.
The procedure here is approximately the same. To properly lay the outlet pipe, you will need wooden blocks of various lengths. plastic or for the drain hole .
Next, you should make
a concrete screed on a slope , as well as enclosing sides.
It is best to use formwork. Although brick is also suitable, which will have to be plastered several times. The floor screed must ensure normal water drainage from any corner of the pan. Only after this can everything be primed using waterproofing materials.
The last step will be laying ceramic tiles and sealing the joints. The glue must be waterproof and from a good manufacturer.
But no matter what option is chosen, installing a shower tray will help solve one of the hygiene problems and allow you to decorate even a small room and free up space. But besides being beautiful, the tray is also multifunctional and can perfectly replace any bathtub. Moreover, choosing the right model and installing it will not be difficult even for a non-specialist.
