Considerations of Acrylic & Steel Shower Trays?

The importance of the bathroom within modern day living & households has changed. To many it is representative of investment, status, reflection of personality, and is central to home life, the bathroom no longer only serves a single purpose. Many use their bathroom to relax after a busy day, to get time to think away from distractions, a place of reflection, and sometimes used as a central family area. Whilst this new perception of the bathroom space is an increasing trend, when designing or renovating a bathroom space, many people forfeit style, functionality, and durability, over price, particularly when choosing a shower tray.

Naturally most focus and budget is spent on the central features of the bathroom, but the shower tray has a very important role, particularly if your focus is showering over bathing. Having a floor seated shower can give a contemporary look the whole shower area and can be more practical for cleaning.  

Everyone has to work to a budget of course, but think about how long you would like your shower tray to last and maintain pristine condition. If you are in need of a quick fix solution then an Acrylic shower tray may be more suited, as a general rule they are cheaper to manufacture therefore cheaper to buy.  

Standard Acrylic shower trays being the less expensive of the two have a comparatively short shelf life compared to it steel counterparts. The material between the two is self explanatory; steel is a solid metal that conducts heat well and is naturally more durable, Acrylic is usually an ICI vacuum formed acrylic sheet reinforced with fibre glass.  

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The two react very differently to different things. Acrylic shower trays as a general rule will sun bleach quite quickly, where as steel trays will not. This is of course dependent on the material used in the shower trays finish. Both types of shower tray are easy to clean and acrylic is a none-porous material so will wipe clean very easily.  

Heat distribution is worth consideration; some Acrylic shower trays are filled with heat conducting material that distribute the heat evenly, whereas steel, although being a successful heat conductor, can lose temperature rapidly and is more responsive to subtle variants.  

Most Acrylic and Steel shower trays are warp resistant but it is always worth checking the manufacturer notes and sales documents to check for these nuances in performance. Features like warping, slip resistance, scratch resistance, and lengthy guarantees are viewed as a positive product sales features so will be mentioned in catalogues or websites.  

Another important aspect in making your choice is safety. If you have elderly people or young children in the household, or are likely to trip on a step then a practical solution would be to have a floor level shower tray. A floor level shower tray is recessed into the floor of your bathroom surface. Kaldewei provide various steel enamel shower tray solutions in this style, they use an ESR frame that the shower tray is installed into. The main advantages of this system are, firstly, a very easy installation, an ESR provides durable protection against damage caused by water seepage, as can occur when a silicone seal is not intact, and this type of damage is an avoidable expense if ESR systems are used.   

All in all there are many manufacturers producing some exceptional products that suit all budgets and all design needs. The best advice is to buy a good quality shower tray first and save yourself having to replace it in a few years time.

How to Choose the Ideal Shower Tray

Choose the ideal shower tray

Keep your bathroom floor splash free with a shower tray

Start with these frequently asked questions

Which material should I choose?

Acrylic is warm and cheap. Go for a reinforced model that's 5-8mm thick to avoid flexing, which can lead to leaks where the tray meets the wall.
Enamelled steel is tough, but can be cold underfoot and more pricey than acrylic.
Fire clay or ceramic is rigid, long lasting and easy to clean, but can be heavy and the floor may need to be reinforced to support the weight.
Stone resin or composite is stable, durable and comes in lots of shapes and colours.

What size should I go for?

Shower trays range from 80cm x 80cm to 170cm x 90cm.
Flush-to-the-floor models create a wet-room feel. Brands to look for are Kaldewei, Bette and Roman. If you don't want a screen, you'll need to 'tank' the room by applying a waterproof membrane under the floor.
Low-level trays (under 4cm high) mimic a wet-room look without the need for tanking.

Which is the best colour?

White is popular as it's clean, fresh and goes with other fittings, but you'll also find black, anthracite and acid brights. The widest colour choice is in composite trays. Corian comes in over 70 shades, and ceramic ore fire clay is great for high-gloss colour.

Where can I put it?

This depends on the position of any waste pipes and water supplies. A solid floor makes it harder to move pipes (although one solution is to build a false floor on top). Corners and alcoves are useful because the walls form a natural enclosure. If you have room, consider fitting a large tray against a long wall to make a striking focal point.

Can I fit one myself?

If you're replacing like for like, it's fine to fit a tray yourself. Choose a tray with adjustable feet to make levelling simple. If you need to relocate drains and pipework, it might be wise to call a plumber.

Tray shapes to look for:

Square
A great choice for an alcove as it can slot neatly into the space.
Quadrant
A quarter circle shape that's good for corner installations.
Pentagonal
A corner model with five sides is just the thing for smaller spaces because it won't protrude into the room as much as a standard square tray.
Rectangular
Ideal for twin showering, with more space for showering than a square tray would offer.
Walk-in
Has a drying area by the entrance, which keeps bathroom floors drip and slip free.

Good to know

Shower trays need to be totally level to ensure a watertight seal and perfect drainage - check with a good-quality spirit level.

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Large Shower Trays

Large shower trays are good in quality, customer friendly and are available at reasonably low price. They are quite popular with common man as these high quality trays are made available at a price within the reach of middle class people. They are easy to install in any interior and are found in different shapes.

These trays are available in different kinds which are based on their shapes. The shapes are
: Square
: Rectangular
: Quadrant
: Pentagonal.

Besides these shapes, the trays are also bifurcated in the category of their make that is stone base and the acrylic base and their profile which are the high profile and the low profile.

The low stone shower trays - the low stone are found in all the shapes. These trays are built with 80 percent of stone and thus prove to be quite dependable. Their shapes can match any bathroom and its drainage system is designed to fix under floor boards. These styles are found in innovative shapes to attract customers. Their range varies from 60 to 70 pounds, individually varying for each shape.

The low acrylic shower trays - these trays are available in square, rectangular, pentagonal and the quadrant shape. They are non slippery in nature and of good strength. In these trays, the waste and pipes are fitted underneath the floor boards. The average cost price varies from 50 to 75 pounds.

The high stone shower trays - these trays are also found in all shapes. The high stone ranges of different shower are under the category of varying shapes with the extra feature of easy plumbing. These shower trays are built with 80 percent stone and these are also very easy and practical to install as their panels can be removed easily for the purpose of repairing. The base of high stone trays is galvanized and also adjustable for installation. The waste flow is through the tray only. The range of these trays varies from 90 to 95 pounds.

The high acrylic shower trays - these trays are available in all the mentioned shapes. These are strong and durable. They have solid steel support system to make them flexible to match different sized bathrooms. Since the waste drainage is inside the tray, it becomes an easy job of repairing if required. They have strong and adjustable base to fix them comfortably. These trays are the best choice for any customer and their range varies from 70 to 95 pounds.

These trays offer a large variety and varying range of cost.

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Shower Wall Panels

Shower Wall Panels are generally sheets of UPVC which are attached to the wall of a bathroom or shower. Shower wall panels are much easier to apply than conventional ceramic bathroom tiles. Each panel is usually slotted together by the use of a tongue and groove system, the tongue on one panel slides into the groove of the next panel and so on, thus covering the wall and ensuring a very quick and easy installation.

Sometimes these wall panels may need to be sealed with a thin bead of silicone sealant inside and along the joint, especially if a high pressure power shower is to be used.

Shower wall panels are available in a huge range of styles and colours, and these can include ;

o Wood grain: Marble Effect: Mosaic Effect, or just plain colours.

These wall panels can usually be complimented with waterproof ceiling panels to give that extra finished touch.

Installing UPVC panels in a bathroom can bring some advantages that ordinary ceramic bathroom tiles do not have and some of these can include;

o They are easy and quick to install
o They have a wipe over surface
o UPVC panels have a very long life and will look good for many years
o They have no grout to go mouldy

UPVC shower panels are available in a range of various sizes, and panels of extra length are usually available when panelled ceilings are required.

Some common standard sizes can include;

o 250mm x 2.7m
o 250mm x 2.6m
o 333mm x 2.7m
o 100mm x 2.6m
o 250mm x 3.0m
o 250 x 2.6m

Installation methods are generally very simple, and while batons and stud work can be used for preparation requirements, the panels can be fixed immediately onto plaster, block, brick, and can even be fixed over existing ceramic tiles. Most installers prefer sticking the panels directly to the wall with some form of panel adhesive, and as this adhesive is quite thick it can be used to pack out uneven areas of the wall.

The panels may also be stapled providing the walls are suitable, and the staples cannot be seen as each successive panel covers the stapled fixing. This is a very quick and easy method of fixing the panels to the wall, and also allows the panels to be removed quickly and easily.

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Where very uneven walls are encountered, batons may fixed to the wall and the shower panels, then fixed to the batons either with a staple gun or the appropriate adhesive.

Shower wall panels are quickly gaining ground and popularity in the DIY industry, for there hygienic, durable and ease of use qualities, and are an asset to any bathroom.

Bathroom Decorating - How To Convert Your Bathroom Into A Oasis Of Wellness

Who is in the believe the bathroom is rather an unimportant room and doesn't need any decorations, is definitely thinking wrong. The bathroom is one, if not even that busiest room in a home but should also be a room for you to find relaxation and relief from the daily stress. You probably will agree with me, nothing is more relaxing than having a nice bubble bath in a bathtub filled with cozy warm water. The use of bath salts and filling the air of the room with the aromatic scent of fragrances will improve this relaxation experience even more.

Doesn't that sound good so far? But you also will have to agree with me, the bubble bath can't be all that converts a bathroom into a personal wellness oasis if the walls are dull and there is nothing else that adds a special touch. The use of decor and decorative accents, the selection of the right furniture, wall shelves and cabinets, bathroom rugs or shower curtains is, what will give the room that special touch. The right decor and furnishings but also the lighting are as important to make you feel cozy and comfortable in your bathroom. Furniture pieces, like wall mounted cabinets, where you can store towels, wash cloths but furthermore even cosmetic accessories and tools are same as important as mirrors, decorative towel holders, eventually even a nice corner rack or corner wall shelf. A smaller cabinet, used as a medicine cabinet, could be added to your bathroom as well. It would make a good place for you to store your First Aid Kit for any emergencies and any other medication, so it always will be handy and can be found quickly by everyone in your household.

Not all bathrooms are big enough for the installation of a big vanity. But this doesn't mean you couldn't keep things like the daily used cosmetic accessories, tooth brush holders and tooth paste or shavers and razors neatly organized and still handy. The installation of a decorative wall shelf or wall console right above the sink can help to keep everything organized and in place. A lot of home and garden decor stores offer a wide selection of bathroom decor sets in different designs and styles, they will help dressing up a bathroom. A nice looking Bath & Body Gift Set Basket is always an eye catcher and will make a great decoration piece.

The otherwise cold tile floor can be accented with a couple tasteful designed bathroom rugs. Towel holders, rings or racks, matching the styles and designs of the other furniture, should be installed in locations, so they can easily be reached from your sink, bathtub or shower. Please remember, functionality and design should always go hand in hand.Besides of the already above mentioned ideas, you may also consider to add some other decorative home decor accents like decorative towels, a few small figurines, some sea shells or even decorative candles to spruce up the look and feel of your bathroom. There are hardly no limitations on themes, how you can decorate a bathroom. Ranging from beach style, over western or cabin style to safari or even contemporary modern, every theme has it's very own beauty. Always remember, it is your bathroom and only you will know what theme will fit the best your personality and style, what will make you feel comfortable the most and what you will like the best and last not least, what will fit your budget the best. Decorating your current bathroom/s doesn't mean you have to get broke over it. Even with a small budget you can make all the difference in the world to the look and feel of any room.

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But let's not forget talking about the right amount of lighting which can have a big influence on how you will feel in your bathroom. Again, functionality and design are same as important when it comes to the right amount of lighting. Keep in mind, you always want make sure to have a good amount of light for putting on Makeup, styling your hair or shaving when choosing the lightning fixtures or lamps for your personal wellness oasis. On the other hand, I seriously doubt you will like a really bright light while having a relaxing bubble bath. So think about a spot to place a nice little lamp or even a wall light that provides just that right amount of light for that special bubble bath. Just make sure, for safety reasons and to prevent death or injury caused by electrical shock, never ever place any lamps or other electrical devices requiring a wall plug, close to your bath tub! I couldn't think of anything that was more relaxing than having a cozy bubble bath in a bathroom, only illuminated by the light of a few candles and the air filled by the scents of aroma oil, released by an oil warmer.If then there is still some romantic music playing in the background.....

Ok, back to the subject.

Besides of any decor and accents and regardless what decor theme you decide for, some house plants should never be missing in a bathroom either. Plants will bring some nature in your bathroom and will add another very special and cozy touch to your decorating efforts. I'm sure there is a way for you to place a flower pot or decorative planter on a corner shelf or cabinet if not even on the floor. In fact, even artificial plants and flowers can do the trick.

As you hopefully can see now, it does not really take much more than some creativity, planning and maybe a little imagination to transform any bathroom into your very own and self designed and decorated wellness oasis. Have fun decorating and enjoy!

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Three Options with a Dual Shower Head

Many consumers have never heard of a dual shower head. A dual head means there are two separate shower heads running off of one pipe in a shower. There are three types of dual shower sets and within each set, there are many options available. Let's find out which type of shower head would best suit you by learning more about them.

The most popular dual set is the dual arm shower head. With this type, one shower head is attached to the wall as a regular shower head fixture. The second shower head is attached to a double length swiveling arm, making this shower head easy to adjust and rotate. This dual head shower system easily attaches to the existing shower plumbing. Many people prefer this type of dual head fixture because of its versatility. Once you've installed the dual arms for your shower head, you can attach any shower head you wish. You can even install two completely different types of shower heads depending on what you want. The dual shower arms are made from heavy sold brass and do not have washers, making them leak free. Try adding a rainfall shower head onto your movable shower arm, while receiving a pulsating massage from the stable wall mounted shower head. You will discover why a dual shower head is often the first choice of many customers.

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The second type of dual head is the dual massaging shower heads. This package is sold already put together with two matching massage shower heads. While they sit side by side, you can swivel and adjust the water so your massage is just right. These are packaged in easy to clean white thermoplastic, chrome or brass. Dual head shower fixtures are often able to run separately as well as together. Flow valves are available for those dual fixtures that do not come with individual shut off valves, making it easier to use one or the other shower head or both simultaneously.

The third type of dual shower heads is the shower head brass bar. Not always made of brass, this bar extends from your shower wall allowing for two shower heads to be attached to either end of the T-shaped bar. Water pressure is usually not a problem with two shower heads. With a water flow valve added to each shower head, you can control the amount of water each shower head allows to pass through it, making it easy to set on shower head to a soft mist while allowing the other to give a strong massaging flow. Shower head bars are available in several widths. Many shower head bars come with valves and shower heads included. These will include dual rain shower heads with an oversize shower head, a jet shower head that is easy to rotate, and dual massage heads on a shower bar.

Choosing a dual shower head that you will enjoy for a long time to come is easier once you know the options available. Be sure to compare not just the shower head features, but the cost as well.

Bathroom Tile Design - Material Types for Bathroom Tile Designs

Good bathroom tile design should create a floor surface that is attractive, water resistant and safe to walk on. Bathroom tile designs using ceramic tile, rubber flooring or vinyl and linoleum floors are examples of bathroom tile design material choices that should be available nearly anywhere. These types of tiles are easy to clean, water resistant and safe to walk on. If you are going to use natural stone or terra-cotta ceramic tiles on your floors to create a more sophisticated effect, make sure you buy the kind with a non-slip finish.

As you consider which bathroom tile designs to select, each type of tile will have unique properties that may or may not provide characteristics that are good for your bathroom. Here are different material types for bathroom tile design along with advantages or disadvantages of each:

1. Laminate and Vinyl Bathroom Tile Design - these types of tile in bathroom tile designs can be found in a variety of colors, patterns and textures. Some tiles even imitate wood, stone and ceramic. It is not very expensive, is water resistant, easy to install and clean and it is durable.

2. Ceramic Bathroom Tile Design - ceramic tile can range from fairly cheap to expensive and it is the classic choice. Tile is made of clay, shale or porcelain and is formed and fired at very high temperatures until it hardens. The higher the temperature and the more times the tile is fired, the harder and less porous the tile.

If you are using a white or cream ceramic tile for your bathroom, using a different color grout like "blue" will give your bathroom a dramatic look. Grout is the material used to fill the spaces between the tiles. Make sure you apply sealers to grout lines in areas of heavy wear like countertops. Sealers will also preserve grout colors.

3. Stone Bathroom Tile Designs (marble, granite, brick, slate, onyx, travertine and limestone) - this tile can be beautiful, very strong, durable in high-traffic areas, it will last a long time, is low maintenance and easy to clean. However, it is expensive, it's a cold material, can be slippery and absorbs stains easily.

4. Linoleum Bathroom Tile Design - this tile is made of renewable and natural materials like linseed oil, ground cork, limestone, jute and wood flour. This type of bathroom floor is making a comeback with new marbled and graphic designs, and it is more durable and easier to clean than vinyl tile.

5. Mosaic Bathroom Tile - this wonderful tile was an ancient craft that today can be made of tile, stone, porcelain and colored glass, creating stunning floor patterns. These tiles are small (1 or 2 inches square) and often expensive. What you can do is to add a small section of this type of tile for visual interest to your floor or countertop.

6. Concrete Bathroom Tile Designs - durable, low maintenance, perfect for wet areas and stunning. You can find this type of tile in beautiful textures such as shiny, rough, slick and sandpaper and in various colors and sizes.

7. Hardwood - you can build your bathroom floor using solid wood, parquet flooring or engineered woods (several layers of wood laminated and high-tech materials that are similar to plywood). Hardwoods are wear-resistant, attractive, comfortable to walk on, easy to clean and refinish, not very cold in winter, but they are more vulnerable to moisture when used in a bathroom.

If you want to use a bathroom tile design that includes rugs in your bathroom, make sure you buy the kind that has rubber backing, or add rubber backing strips to the rugs. Be careful with rugs that can slip and slide on a tiled floor or natural stone floor which creates a safety hazard. Rugs can also harbor dust mites and allergens which is a problem for people with allergies.

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Whether you'll be remodeling an old bathroom or creating a brand new one, being active in the design stage helps ensure that your bathroom turns out just like you want. The bathroom tile designs and styles, colors, patterns and sizes you choose can help you have a bathroom that is comfortable, attractive and functional and a room that you will enjoy every day.