Making The Switch: Switching a Bath to a Walk-In Shower Tray

Whether you're looking to update your space for accessibility, ease of use, or simply to breathe new life into your bathroom, replacing an outdated bath with a sleek, modern walk-in shower tray can be a game-changer. At Bathroom Supplies Online, we understand the importance of making your bathroom both functional and stylish. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process, from the initial decision to the final touches, ensuring you have all the information you need to embark on this exciting home improvement project.

Why Make the Switch?

The decision to replace your traditional bath with a modern walk-in shower tray is one that offers numerous advantages. Firstly, walk-in showers are designed with accessibility in mind, making them an excellent choice for those who may have mobility challenges or require a more user-friendly bathing experience. The seamless, low-threshold entry and ample space within the shower area eliminate the need for navigating over a high bath wall, reducing the risk of accidents and providing a safer, more convenient showering experience.

Furthermore, walk-in showers create an illusion of spaciousness, making them an ideal solution for smaller bathrooms. Their minimalist design and lack of a bulky bath structure help to open up the space visually, creating a more airy and inviting atmosphere. This can be particularly appealing for those seeking to maximise the perceived size of their bathroom or achieve a more modern, streamlined aesthetic.

In addition to their practical benefits, walk-in showers also offer a sleek and contemporary look that can significantly enhance the overall style and ambiance of your bathroom. With a wide range of tile options, from luxurious natural stone to sleek glass panels, you can easily create a shower enclosure that seamlessly blends with your desired design aesthetic, elevating the entire space.

Walk-in showers cater to the demands of busy lifestyles, offering a more efficient and time-saving bathing experience. Unlike traditional baths, which require filling and draining, walk-in showers provide a quick and convenient option for those on-the-go, allowing you to streamline your morning routine or simply enjoy a refreshing shower without the added time commitment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Bath with a Walk-In Shower Tray

Embarking on a bathroom renovation project might seem daunting, but we’re here to guide you through it, step by step. Here’s how to replace your bath with a walk-in shower tray:

Step 1: Preparation and Planning

Measure Your Space: Use a tape measure to accurately record the dimensions of the area where your bath is currently located. Make note of the length, width, and height of the space, as well as any obstructions or features that may impact the installation of the new walk-in shower tray.

Select Your Shower Tray: Based on your measurements and personal preferences, choose a walk-in shower tray that fits your space and meets your needs. Consider the shape (rectangular, quadrant, etc.), size, and material (acrylic, stone resin, etc.). Review the specifications carefully to ensure compatibility with your bathroom's layout.

Gather Tools and Materials: Assemble the necessary tools, such as a pipe cutter, drill, screwdrivers, utility knife, caulking gun, level, and any specialised tools recommended by the shower tray manufacturer. Additionally, you'll need silicone sealant, tile adhesive (if applicable), grout, and any new plumbing fittings or drain components required for the installation.

Step 2: Removing the Old Bath

Turn Off Water Supply: Locate the main water supply valve for your bathroom and turn it off. This will prevent any water from flowing into the area while you're working.

Disconnect Plumbing: Start by disconnecting the drain from the bath. You may need to use a pipe cutter or reciprocating saw to cut through the pipes. Next, disconnect the water supply lines, taking care not to damage any surrounding walls or fixtures.

Remove the Bath: Once all plumbing connections are severed, carefully remove any screws, nails, or adhesive securing the bath to the floor or walls. Depending on the size and weight of the tub, you may need assistance from another person to lift it out of the bathroom safely.

Step 3: Preparing for the New 

Check and Prepare the Floor: Inspect the area where the new shower tray will be installed. Ensure the floor is level,

sturdy, and free of any cracks or damage. If necessary, apply a self-levelling compound or make any necessary repairs to create a stable and even surface.

Install Plumbing: If your new shower tray requires a different drain location or configuration, you'll need to install new plumbing accordingly. This may involve cutting into the floor or walls to accommodate the new drain and water supply lines. Follow local building codes and regulations, and consider hiring a professional plumber if you're unsure about the process.

Step 4: Installing the Walk-In Shower Tray

Dry Fit the Tray: Before permanently securing the shower tray, carefully place it in the desired location and check for proper fit and alignment. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure it sits level and flush against the surrounding walls.

Apply Sealant: Using a high-quality silicone sealant specifically designed for bathroom installations, apply a generous bead along the floor where the edges of the shower tray will sit. This will help create a watertight seal and prevent leaks.

Secure the Tray: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to properly secure the shower tray to the floor. This may involve using screws, adhesive, or a combination of both. Double-check that the tray is level and fully supported before proceeding.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Install Shower Enclosure: Once the tray is securely in place, it's time to install the shower enclosure. This could be a glass panel, a full enclosure, or a curtain rod, depending on your preference. Carefully follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper installation, ensuring a tight seal and a secure fit.

Seal the Edges: Using the same silicone sealant, apply a continuous bead around the edges where the shower tray meets the walls and where the enclosure meets the walls and tray. Smooth the sealant with a tool for a clean, watertight finish.

Reconnect Plumbing: With the shower tray and enclosure installed, reconnect the plumbing by attaching the drain and water supply lines. Ensure all connections are tight and secure to prevent leaks.

Test for leaks: Once all plumbing is reconnected, turn the water supply back on and test the shower for any leaks or issues. Make any necessary adjustments or reapply sealant as needed.

Choosing the Right Walk-In Shower Tray

When selecting a walk-in shower tray, consider the size, height, and material. Low-profile trays offer a sleek look and are easier to step into, while stone resin trays provide durability and a luxurious feel. Additionally, think about the overall design of your bathroom and choose a tray that complements its aesthetic.

Lets take a look at some of the best options you can purchase from us at Bathroom Supplies Online: Bette, Novellini, and Ideal Standard's i.life range. Each offers unique benefits tailored to different needs and preferences.

Bette Walk-In Shower Trays

Bette is renowned for its remarkable engineering and design, producing shower trays that blend seamlessly into any bathroom aesthetic. Manufactured in Germany, Bette's shower trays are crafted from durable steel enamel. This material choice offers superior longevity, resistance to chips, scratches, and stains, as well as an easy-to-clean surface that maintains its gloss over years of use. The steel enamel is also 100% recyclable, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

Bette's shower trays come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including options for large walk-in showers and smaller bathrooms. The ultra-low profile options are particularly noteworthy, creating a nearly level floor look that is both stylish and reduces the risk of trips and falls, making them an excellent choice for those with mobility issues or who are planning on ageing in place.

The BetteFloor Range

The BetteFloor collection is one that offers a wonderful illustration of a high-quality walk-in shower tray. One of the most apparent characteristics of these trays is their ability to be seamlessly blended into the bathroom floor. This design decision reduces the number of possible trip hazards, which enhances safety while also adding to the product's overall sleekness. Whether your bathroom has a more modern or traditional feel to it, the fully integrated design is a harmonious complement to any architectural style.

The incredible pore-free finish is one more element that highlights the design. This serves a far more important purpose in maintaining hygiene than just being aesthetically pleasing. When cleanliness is paramount, it is peaceful to have a surface free of pores. It ensures that the shower area will remain as hygienic as possible because it effectively reduces the chance of germs and dirt accumulation.

Variations in Size and Colour

The BetteFloor line doesn't appear to be lacking in content diversity. The range comprises sizes ranging from the more compact 800 x 800 mm square trays to the wider 1800 x 900 mm options, catering to a variety of tastes and bathroom sizes. BetteFloor is able to offer a tray that works with almost any bathroom design because of its extensive range.

Colour has a significant influence on bathroom design, and BetteFloor delivers. The series can be easily incorporated into contemporary bathroom colour schemes because it comes in a wide variety of standard bathroom colours. Furthermore, Bette offers 22 unique matte shades to choose from for people looking for something unique. These colours have the power to transform a bathroom, giving it a unique vibe that fits with individual style preferences.

Novellini Shower Trays

Novellini, an Italian brand celebrated for its extensive experience and innovation in bathroom designs, offers a diverse range of walk-in shower trays, notably characterised by their elegance and adaptability. Their shower trays, such as those from the Olympic Plus, Novosolid, and Custom Touch series, cater to a broad spectrum of aesthetic and functional needs.

The Olympic Plus series, for example, features trays that are made from durable methacrylate laminated onto a wooden baseboard and fibreglass, which ensures a combination of strength and a sleek, modern look. These trays are particularly noted for their flat-bottom design, and the entire structure is reinforced with a metal frame to enhance stability and longevity.

On the other hand, the Novosolid range is designed with the modern lifestyle in mind, using a high-quality blend of natural materials such as 75% dolomite marble, complemented by a gel coating that provides a soft, anti-slip, and warm underfoot experience. This range also features a textured stone effect with a matt finish, making it a stylish addition to any bathroom.

The Custom Touch series further highlights Novellini’s commitment to personalisation in bathroom design. These trays offer a variety of finishing touches that can significantly enhance the visual and tactile quality of the bathroom space.

Novellini also stands out for its practical designs aimed at maximising space and enhancing functionality. For instance, certain models can be cut to size directly on the installation site, which is a significant advantage for customising trays to fit specific dimensions or awkwardly shaped areas.

Ideal Standard i.life Trays

The Ideal Standard i.Life Ultra Flat S series of shower trays exemplifies a sleek, minimalist design that harmonises with contemporary bathroom aesthetics. Available in a variety of modern finishes such as Pure White, Concrete Grey, Sand, and Jet Black, these trays are crafted from a durable stone resin material and feature a matt, stone-like finish that adds a touch of luxury while ensuring safety with its anti-slip properties.

One of the standout features of the i.Life Ultra Flat S range is its exceptionally slim profile, with a thickness of just 30mm. This low profile not only contributes to the trays' modern look but also enhances accessibility, making them an excellent choice for family bathrooms or facilities requiring easier access.

The textured finish of the trays is not just aesthetically pleasing but also practical, as it incorporates anti-slip features to ensure safety. The trays' construction involves a mixture of resin and natural mineral fillers, coated with an opaque finish that mimics the look and feel of natural stone. This coating is designed to be slip-resistant and is rated Class C according to DIN 51097, which denotes a high level of slip resistance.

Ideal Standard's focus on innovation and quality is evident in the Ultra Flat S series, which is part of a broader range of bathroom products that aim to offer both functionality and style. The trays are available in several dimensions to suit various installation needs, ensuring that there is likely an option that fits your specific bathroom layout and design preferences.

Addressing Common Concerns and Solutions

Renovating your bathroom by replacing a bath with a walk-in shower tray can raise several concerns among homeowners. Let’s tackle these head-on and provide some practical solutions:

Structural Integrity: Replacing a bath with a shower tray might affect your bathroom's structural integrity, especially in older homes.

Solution: Consult a professional to evaluate your bathroom's structure before beginning the renovation. They can advise on any necessary reinforcements.

Drainage Issues: The existing bath drain might not align with your new shower tray, leading to potential plumbing complications.

Solution: You may need to adjust the position of the drain or extend the plumbing to ensure a seamless fit. It's advisable to get a professional plumber to handle these adjustments.

Waterproofing Concerns: Improper installation can lead to water leakage and damage.

Solution: Ensure all seals and joins are waterproofed correctly. Use a quality silicone sealant and consider installing a waterproof membrane under the shower tray for added protection.

Practical Tips for a Successful Walk-In Shower Tray Installation

Achieving a flawless walk-in shower tray installation requires attention to detail and planning. Here are some practical tips to ensure a successful project:

Accurate Measurements: Double-check the measurements of your bathroom space and the shower tray before purchase and installation. Remember to account for any out-of-square walls or unusual angles in your bathroom.

Waterproofing Techniques: Beyond the shower tray, ensure the entire shower area is waterproof. Apply a waterproof membrane across the floor and lower sections of the walls. Tile over the membrane or use waterproof wall panels to safeguard against moisture.

Adequate Drainage: Ensure the shower tray is slightly tilted towards the drain to prevent water from pooling. This tilt should be subtle yet effective, requiring precise installation.

Maintenance Tips: To prolong the lifespan of your walk-in shower tray, regular maintenance is key. Use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratching the surface. Check and reapply silicone sealant around the edges and the drain annually to prevent leaks.

Choose the Right Materials: Opt for durable materials that can withstand daily use. Acrylic and stone resin are popular choices for their longevity and ease of maintenance.