When specifying a shower tray for a project, architects need to consider not only aesthetics and function but also durability. A well-constructed shower tray can withstand years of daily use without issues such as cracking, warping, or leaking. To help ensure you select a long-lasting option for your next project, this guide will highlight the essential qualities of a durable shower tray, including material selection, construction techniques, and design features.
1. Material Selection: The Foundation of Durability
The material a shower tray is made from plays a critical role in its longevity. Choosing the right material ensures the tray can handle weight, moisture, and wear and tear. Here are some top materials known for their durability:
Acrylic Trays
Acrylic trays are lightweight yet durable, making them resistant to cracks and dents. Their smooth surface is easy to clean and resistant to stains. High-quality acrylic trays, particularly those reinforced with fiberglass, can withstand heavy usage in both residential and commercial settings.
Pre-Formed Shower Trays
Our ProFinish™ and DryFit™ tile shower systems offer exceptional durability and are specifically engineered to provide long-lasting performance in demanding environments. Both trays are made from high-strength materials that prevent cracking or warping over time.
The ProFinish™ Tile Tray System is made in New Zealand from high density, environmentally safe, rigid polyurethane, and replaces the need for a traditional sand and cement sloped shower base.
ProFinish™ products are available in a large range of sizes and shapes and are suited for 2-sided, 3-sided, neo, and curved showers. ProFinish™ can be fully customised to accommodate any desired shower design
The DryFit™ Tile System is an innovative, all-in-one water containment solution that’s made from a durable, lightweight material. It’s easy to install, ensuring perfect alignment and reducing the need for screed or traditional waterproofing. Despite its ease of use, DryFit™ doesn’t sacrifice strength—its robust structure is designed to handle frequent use while providing superior water drainage. This pre-formed tray is perfect for projects where both durability and efficient installation are priorities.
Stainless Steel: While less common in residential bathrooms, stainless steel trays are a top choice in industrial or high-traffic environments due to their extreme durability. They are resistant to corrosion, scratches, and impact, making them a solid choice for projects that require heavy-duty performance.
2. Construction Techniques: Built to last
Beyond material selection, how a shower tray is constructed is just as important for ensuring durability. Look for trays that are designed with the following construction features:
Reinforced Base: A reinforced base adds extra strength to the tray, preventing it from flexing or bowing under pressure. Many modern shower trays, especially acrylic ones, are reinforced with fiberglass or steel supports to enhance their structural integrity.
Anti-Slip Coating: A durable tray not only lasts long but also ensures safety. Look for trays with anti-slip surfaces or coatings that maintain their grip over time, even with regular cleaning. This is especially important in high-traffic areas like hotels or apartments.
Integrated Drainage Slope: A properly sloped shower tray ensures water drains efficiently, preventing pooling and reducing the risk of leaks. Trays with integrated slopes not only enhance functionality but also contribute to the long-term durability of the bathroom by minimizing water damage.
Impact Resistance: A tray that resists chips, cracks, and dents is key in high-traffic areas. Be sure to choose a material and construction method that can withstand dropped items like soap dishes or shampoo bottles without sustaining damage
3. Design Features: Maximizing Longevity and Performance
Durability isn’t just about materials and construction; clever design can also play a role in extending the lifespan of a shower tray. Here are some important design features to consider:
Seamless Construction: Trays with fewer seams or joints reduce the risk of water infiltration and mold growth. Seamless designs are easier to clean and maintain, which contributes to long-term durability.
Edge Reinforcement: The edges of the tray are particularly vulnerable to damage from regular foot traffic and water exposure. Trays with reinforced edges can better withstand the wear and tear of everyday use, especially in multi-residential or public bathrooms.
Thermal Stability: If your project involves environments with significant temperature fluctuations, such as outdoor showers or bathrooms in uninsulated buildings, it’s essential to choose a tray that can handle thermal stress without cracking. Materials like stone resin or stainless steel are ideal for these applications due to their excellent thermal stability.
Customizability: When designing bathrooms for unique or irregular spaces, it’s important to find a tray that can be customized to fit. Custom trays reduce the need for excessive cutting or modifications on-site, which can compromise the tray’s structural integrity over time.
4. Certifications and Warranty: A Mark of Trust
When specifying a shower tray for your projects, be sure to look for reputable brands that back up their products with certifications and warranties. Durability is not just about immediate performance but how well the product holds up over the years. Certifications for impact resistance, slip ratings, and water drainage can give you peace of mind that the tray meets high industry standards. Equally important is the manufacturer’s warranty. A long warranty period (some extending up to 50 years) indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability. Always review warranty details to ensure coverage against common issues such as cracks, leaks, and fading.
Final thoughts
A durable shower tray is the foundation of any well-designed bathroom. By paying close attention to the material, construction techniques, and design features, architects can specify high-performance trays that provide both form and function for many years to come. Durability, after all, means fewer repairs, fewer replacements, and a better long-term investment for your clients.
When you choose a well-constructed, high-quality shower tray, you’re not just installing a bathroom fixture—you’re making a lasting statement in every project.
Ready to Specify Durable Shower Trays?
Download our Tile Over Tray Guide for detailed insights into our ProFinish™ and DryFit™ systems or explore our Acrylic Tray Buying Guide to ensure you’re selecting the best acrylic options for your projects.
