When specifying shower systems for residential or commercial projects, architects and specifiers are often faced with a choice between traditional screeded tile shower bases or more modern solutions, such as tile-over trays. Tile-over trays have gained significant popularity in recent years due to their ability to combine the sleek aesthetic of a tiled shower floor with the convenience of a pre-formed system.
In this blog, we’ll explore the key advantages of specifying a tile-over tray for your next project.
1. Time-Saving Installation
Traditional screed bases require multiple layers of materials, precise slope formation, and extended drying times. Our ProFinish™ Tile Over Trays, however, are pre-formed with the perfect slope for drainage, eliminating the need for complex screeding. These trays offer a superior solution by providing consistent, reliable slope accuracy right out of the box. The ProFinish™ system significantly reduces installation time, allowing for faster project turnover—an essential consideration for both residential homes and larger commercial developments like multi-residential apartments.
By cutting down installation time, ProFinish™ Tile Over Trays not only accelerate the build process but also reduce labour costs and the potential for human error when creating a water-tight slope. This consistency and efficiency make them a superior choice over traditional screeding techniques, ensuring long-term performance and fewer risks of water damage.
2. Customisable Designs
While pre-formed, tile-over trays offer a high degree of customization, giving architects flexibility to fit into a variety of bathroom layouts. Options like 2-sided, 3-sided, curved, or neo-angle trays mean you can achieve unique designs without compromising on performance. These trays can also be recessed or hobbed, depending on the aesthetic and accessibility needs of the space.
For projects that need full flexibility, the ProFinish™ Tile Over Tray is fully customizable, allowing architects to design bathrooms with confidence and creativity. Below is an example of our 2-Sided Recessed Tile Shower Base.
2-Sided Recessed Entry ProFinish™ Tile Over Tray
2-Sided Recessed ProFinish™ Tray
2-Sided Hobbed ProFinish™ Tray
3. Enhanced Durability
Tile-over trays are designed for longevity, typically built with materials that can withstand heavy use without cracking or warping. The structural integrity of these trays, paired with the durability of tiles, ensures a robust solution that stands up to daily wear in both residential and commercial settings.
For architects specifying bathrooms in multi-residential or high-use environments, a tile-over tray like ProFinish™ offers a balance between durability and design freedom, ensuring the finished shower looks great and performs even better for years to come. However, there are several types of tile over trays in the market, and we recommend you read our latest quick guide to check what is the best option for you.
4. Cost Efficiency
While traditional screeded bases may seem like a cost-effective solution initially, they require additional labour and materials, which can inflate the overall cost. Tile-over trays streamline the installation process, reducing the amount of time tradespeople need to spend on-site. The pre-formed design ensures fewer materials are required, reducing both waste and cost.
Additionally, since tile-over trays significantly reduce the chances of water damage and repair costs in the long run, they offer a higher return on investment for the client and a smoother process for architects.
5. Suitable for Retrofit and Renovations
Renovation projects can be tricky, especially when dealing with existing floor structures and space constraints. Tile-over trays can be adapted to retrofit scenarios, making them an ideal choice for both new builds and bathroom remodels. Their compatibility with various types of flooring allows homeowners or developers to achieve a modern look, without needing a full structural overhaul.
6. Ease of Specification
When it comes to specifying shower systems for residential or commercial projects, ProFinish™ Tile Over Trays offer architects and specifiers unparalleled ease of specification. Newline provides a comprehensive technical library that includes installation manuals and specification sheets, ensuring that all the information you need is at your fingertips. Plus, these resources are conveniently available at Masterspec, making access smooth and efficient. With these tools, architects can easily navigate the specifications required for ProFinish, confidently integrating this modern solution into their designs. This streamlined process not only enhances project efficiency but also helps mitigate potential issues, allowing for a seamless transition from specification to installation.
