Installing a square shower tray correctly is all about getting the fundamentals right - a solid base, perfect levelling, and a watertight seal. Even small issues at the installation stage (like a slight twist in the tray or poor support underneath) can lead to movement, cracked grout, or leaks over time, so it’s worth following a clear step-by-step process.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key stages of fitting a square shower tray, including preparing the floor, positioning and levelling the tray, connecting the waste, securing the tray properly, and sealing it ready for the next stage of your bathroom installation. Whether you’re fitting onto a solid floor or a timber subfloor, these instructions will help you achieve a stable, long-lasting finish.
Square Drain Shower Trays
Step 1:
Place the shower tray in the correct position and outline around it to identify which section of the floorboards needs to be removed. The tray can also be recessed.
Step 2:
Once the floorboards are removed, Measure and mark where your drain and waste pipe will be fitted.
Step 3:
Cut a piece of plywood to support the drain body; this should be 10mm higher than the waste pipe. Connect the drain body to the waste pipe using solvent weld as usual. Always check for leaks before finalising the installation of the shower tray.
Step 4:
Fix a batten below the top of the joists.
Step 5:
Once you are satisfied with the drainage, place plywood around the drain and fix in position.
Step 6:
Spread the adhesive evenly over the area where the shower tray is to be installed, being careful to clean away any adhesive on the rim of the trap.
Step 7:
Ensure that the surface is smooth & Level.
Step 8:
Fix the shower tray into position. With a spirit level, check that the edges of the tray are level. Also you should use waterproof tape to connect all joint and wall corners.
Step 9:
Seal all joints (both wall and floor) utilising special waterproof membrane / paste.
Step 10:
Seal all corners of shower area with inside corner membrane / paste.
Step 11:
Then set the O-ring on Inlet with Seal and put it in.
Step 12:
If there’s a height difference between the tile and the drain.
Step 13:
Use the riser piece to balance the height difference between tile and drain.
Step 14:
The shower base is finished and can be tiled.
In principle, you can use all types and sizes of tiles, special requirements for tiles and mosaic thickness to be <25mm, and the size of the tiles and mosaic on the shower tray must be =50 * 50mm. Otherwise, you should consult the manufacturer.
