📋 Key takeaways: Personally, I consider that installing an extra flat shower tray mainly requires precision, especially regarding the level and drainage. In 90% of cases, problems come from a poorly calculated slope or a misaligned siphon. With thorough preparation and a good support, the installation can be done in half a day. The result is both aesthetic and durable.
Combining modernity and practicality, the extra flat shower tray generates great interest in countless households. Like the Italian shower, this installation adds an unmatched aesthetic touch to the bathroom.
If you want to benefit from it, it is essential to know how to install a shower tray properly.
To be honest, nothing beats hiring a professional to lay the tiles. But you can always gather more information on the subject. That is why we offer you this article summarizing the installation steps.
But before diving into the details, it is appropriate to provide you with the various good reasons to install an extra flat shower tray.
💬 Personal anecdote: During my first installation in a renovated bathroom, I had neglected the height of the siphon and had to dismantle everything after 2 hours of work. The tray was not resting properly and water was stagnating. Since then, I always check the drainage even before installing the tray. The lesson is clear: anticipating saves time.
Why choose an extra flat shower tray?
✅ Advantages
- Modern and discreet design
- Easy access like an Italian shower
- Simplified maintenance
⚡ Disadvantages
- Technical installation
- Requires good drainage
The Italian shower is gaining ground in the majority of contemporary bathrooms. If you are attracted by this invention, plan for a larger budget.
Conversely, the installation of the extra flat shower tray does not require large expenses. Even though it shares many features with the Italian reference, its assembly can be less costly.
To better clarify our ideas, it is important to explain what is meant by extra flat tray. The model stands out by its thinner shape compared to the classic shower tray.
While the height of the latter is between 15 and 25 cm, the extra flat one does not exceed 5 cm. Due to its extra flat design, you can even embed it into the floor without any problem.
Although its installation requires significant masonry work, it may seem less expensive than that of the Italian shower. The latter involves a complex sanitary drainage system.
Its advantage does not stop there! The extra-flat shower tray facilitates wastewater drainage. It is designed with a slope that simplifies flow and prevents overflow. It offers perfect waterproofing, limiting moisture problems in your bathroom.
Besides that, installing an extra-flat shower tray is advantageous since all types of users can benefit from it. Thanks to its ultra-thin edges, young children can use it without worry. The same applies to people with reduced mobility.
Since this type of shower trays comes in various textures and colors, it easily fits into any bathroom style.
They are available in different materials. Whether extra-flat resin shower tray or acrylic shower tray, regardless of the model, its installation adds an incomparable aesthetic touch to your wet room.
To go deeper, I recommend installing tiles on pedestals which complements this topic well. plumbing connection also provides useful insights. And to go further, checking home plumbing condition offers interesting information.
| Type of tray | Thickness | Average price | Ease of installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extra-flat resin | 3 to 5 cm | €120 to €400 | Medium |
| Ceramic | 5 to 8 cm | €80 to €250 | Easy |
| Acrylic | 4 to 6 cm | €100 to €300 | Easy |
| Natural stone | 3 to 4 cm | €300 to €800 | Difficult |
Installing an extra-flat shower tray: step by step
With the many advantages mentioned above, many people choose this shower base. The question arises as to how the shower tray will be properly installed. Discover the different phases of the installation.
🌍 Did you know?
An extra-flat shower tray requires a drainage slope of at least 1 to 2 cm per meter to ensure optimal water flow.
Preparation of drainage and water inlets
Before this step, gather the necessary materials and tools such as the drain pipe, silicone sealant, drainage hose, glue, adhesive tape, caulking gun, and many others.
Next, determine the exact installation location. Ensure that the drain is compatible with the extra-flat shower base to be installed. A vertical type wastewater drainage requires a compliant connection and drain.
That said, now remove your shower tray. Put the drainage and water inlets in place. Use the hose to connect the drain to the drainage pipe, then apply the silicone sealant. Before installing the shower base, you must be certain of its watertightness.
Installation of the shower tray
⚠️ Warning
Installing a shower tray without checking the floor level is a common mistake. Even a slight defect can cause water stagnation and long-term leaks.
This step depends on the model of the extra flat shower tray. Some products require height-adjustable feet. This is the case for the extra flat acrylic shower tray.
As for the resin shower tray, it requires the application of porcelain adhesive cement. Since it is heavy, it cannot be placed on pedestals or feet.
Once you finish installing the shower tray, adjust its level using a spirit level. Then remove the equipment and apply glue on the floor surface.
After repositioning it, leave a few millimeters between the shower tray and the drain pipe to create a slope. The goal is to ensure water flows without any problem.
Flow test
If you hire a professional to install the shower tray, they always have the reflex to test the water flow before fixing the tray. This step should not be neglected, otherwise the installation will have to be redone from the start.
To do this, simply let the water run for a few seconds. If you find no problem, it means good drainage. You can then proceed to the next step.
Fixing the shower tray
If so far you have found no issues, all that remains is to install your extra flat shower tray. There are various products to secure it to the floor.
Silicone is one of the substances most used by professionals. Others use tile adhesive. When your extra flat shower tray is well positioned, you can remove the shims.
Still at this stage, remember to properly install the drain. Make sure to protect it for proper functioning.
🔧 Tip
Use a spirit level and check all 4 sides of the tray during installation. Allow about 24 hours drying time before first use.
Sealing and drying time
To complete the installation, the last step is to seal and apply silicone sealant on the edges of your extra flat tray.
But before proceeding with this operation, it is best to clean or degrease the edges. Generally, the plumber integrates sealing strips at the start of the shower tray installation. If not, it is time to add them on the edges of your tray with silicone.
You can now install the drain grate over the drain. After the silicone dries, do not hesitate to install the shower tray and walls.
Warranty and peace of mind when installing an extra flat shower tray by a plumber
More and more DIY enthusiasts want to know how to install a extra flat shower tray. However, it must be admitted that this installation requires specific technical skills.
Only a qualified plumber can promise you better results. With their expertise and know-how, the quality of their work is guaranteed.
It is rare to encounter waterproofing problems after their intervention. If this happens, the specialist does not hesitate to find effective solutions.
Even if their services seem expensive to you, they are really worth the money. Their installation promises you comfort, peace of mind, and safety.
Price of installing an extra flat shower tray by a plumber
(function(){if(window._alpLd)return;window._alpLd=1;var s=document.createElement(‘script’);s.src=’https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/npm/alpinejs@3/dist/cdn.min.js’;s.defer=true;document.head.appendChild(s);})()Compared to the installation of a classic shower tray, that of the extra flat model may seem expensive. However, its assembly is less costly compared to that of a shower base to be tiled.
When a plumber is called to install an extra flat shower tray, you should budget around €300. The installation involves embedding the drain pipe as well as the shower base. The technician will also ensure the sealing joint is fixed between the edges of the shower tray and the wall.
Other possible alternatives: AlloVoisins, leboncoin, Facebook Marketplace
If you have trouble finding the right plumber, many sites can help you. AlloVoisins ranks among the most used applications by the French.
Besides equipment rental, this platform also lists professionals from the region closest to you. Other sites like leboncoin and Facebook Marketplace also handle this.
Post an ad on these different sites to find a skilled DIYer or plumber and compare prices
Nothing is easier than posting your request on this platform, and it’s free. To complete it, just follow the instructions on the interface. Just a few clicks allow you to find the rare gem.
What information must appear in a quote for the installation of an extra flat shower tray?
As with all quotes, there are many pieces of information that must be displayed in the document.
In the case of installing a shower tray, the professional is required to provide more details on all costs including travel expenses as well as the installation cost. They must also mention the payment deadlines and conditions.
Some plumbers conduct a site visit to determine the quote. They set the price according to the complexity of the task.
The different sizes of extra flat shower trays?
Almost all extra flat shower trays have a height of 4 to 5 cm. Other models measure 3 cm in height.
They require a drain pipe with a diameter of 50 mm. The majority are square-shaped, available in 70 × 70 cm and 80 × 80 cm. Some references include 90 × 90 cm and 100 × 100 cm.
Are you renovating your shower? Read our other complementary articles
We can offer you a number of useful tips to help you take care of your bathroom equipment.
How much does it cost to install an extra-flat shower tray?
u003cbr/u003eThe cost depends on the complexity of the installation, but generally, it is around €300. It is advisable to compare several quotes to find the ideal pricing.u003cbr/u003e
How long should you wait for drying before installing your extra-flat shower tray?
u003cbr/u003eOne hour may be enough. But in any case, you need to consider the quality and model of the sealing product to determine the drying time.u003cbr/u003e
What criteria should you look at to properly install your extra-flat shower tray?
u003cbr/u003eThis type of shower tray requires a drainage system located on the floor or with a vertical siphon. Also, make sure to carefully observe the size of the surface that will accommodate the device. It must match its dimensions.u003cbr/u003e
How to glue an extra-flat shower tray?
u003cbr/u003eThere are many products that guarantee its fixation. For resin shower trays, professionals often use porcelain adhesive cement. Besides that, they use silicone and tile adhesive.u003cbr/u003e
What screed for extra-flat shower tray?
u003cbr/u003eu003cstrongu003eInstalling a shower trayu003c/strongu003e requires a special screed mortar. Most of the time, the tray is installed on a concrete screed.u003cbr/u003e
How to install a corner extra-flat shower tray?
u003cbr/u003eThe extra-flat shower tray is sometimes placed in a corner of your bathroom to save more space. It only requires a slope of a few centimeters and you’re done.u003cbr/u003e
