Low-profile showers are taking the market by storm. They’re sleek, look good and save space.
But, what to do when you find your low-profile shower tray overflowing?
Well, it’s simple.
A low-profile shower tray has decreased water holding capacity. Thus, the drainage system needs to be efficient. For this purpose, raising the shower tray helps. To do so, check your floorboards and carve an access hatch. Then, align the tray waste with the bathroom waste and set the shower tray. Finally, connect the waste and seal the shower tray.
Sounds interesting? Then let’s hop right in.
Why Does Low Profile Shower Tray Overflow?
Now, a common question may riddle you. Why do low-profile showers overflow? What makes them different?
You see, shower trays can be of two types. One is the regular bulky design that we usually see. These have a wide drain hole and are simple yet functional.
But, low-profile shower trays are only about 40mm high. The main reason they got popular was due to their sleek design. Also, it makes your bathroom look bigger and adds sophistication.
However, a low-profile shower tray can bring a host of problems. First of all, a functioning shower tray should drain faster than it fills up. But if you don’t have a great drainage system, this can be an issue.
On the other hand, regular shower trays can overflow too!
Now, a low-profile shower tray has a low water holding capacity, to begin with. So for the water to not pool, the drainage has to be especially efficient. Thus, there needs to be plenty of drainage space under the tray and current joists.
All in all, a low-profile tray needs to have highly efficient drainage. Also, the trap needs to be wide enough. Only then, the shower tray will function properly.
How to Stop Low Profile Shower Tray from Overflowing?
Now we know all the problems of a low-profile shower tray. So, let’s look at the solution.
One effortless solution is to take shorter showers. This not only prevents overflow but also stops the shower cable from overheating.
When the shower tray overflows, the best solution is to lift the tray a few millimeters. This provides room underneath the tray, allowing the drainage trap to function properly.
All we need to do is lift the shower tray about 100mm. Although this may seem tricky, it really is not. Let’s take a look at the tools we’ll need before starting.
Tools You’ll Need
- A pencil
- Spirit level
- Jigsaw
- Dust sheet
- Bucket
- Building sand
- Cement
- Mortar trowel
- 150-200 ml Silicone sealant
- Sealant gun
Once you have the essential items, let’s get down to business.
Step 1: Check the Floorboards
Did you know that low-profile shower trays are pretty heavy? Well, they definitely don’t look like it.
If you want to set the shower tray on your bathroom floor, it has to be sturdy enough. Thus, measure its stability by standing on it. If you feel that the floorboards don’t give away under your weight, let’s proceed.
Step 2: Carve an Access Hatch
Once you’re sure that the floor is sturdy, time to cut an access hatch. This contraption will enable you to reach the pipes after the tray is set.
To cut the access hatch, trace the measurement on the floorboard. Then, take a jigsaw and cut it into the floorboard.
Step 3: Align the Tray waste and the Bathroom Waste
After the access hatch is carved, align the tray and bathroom waste. If you’re clueless as to what a waste is, no worries.
A shower waste is a small tube that connects the drain to the piping. Without it, the dirty shower water won’t drain properly.
So for the water to drain out, the waste needs to be aligned perfectly. Mark the cut lines and then cut the shower access hatch.
Step 4: Set the Shower Tray with Mortar
Time to set the shower tray with some mortar. To do this, mix building sand and cement in a 5:1 ratio. Next, apply a thin layer of mortar and set the shower tray.
Mortar not only levels but also helps even out accent tiles.
Press the shower tray gently, so that it’s leveled. Remember, the thicker your mortar, the higher your shower tray.
Step 5: Connect the Waste to the Pipe
Once the shower tray is set, connect the shower waste to the drainage pipe. To reach them, use the access hatch.
After connecting the pipes, pour some water to check if it drains.
Step 6: Seal the Shower Tray
Once you’re sure that everything is connected, it’s time to seal in the shower tray. To do this, take your sealant and apply a thin layer on the edges.
Don’t forget to leave a small gap of 20 mm between the tiles and the shower tray. After you apply a thin layer, wait for 24 hours. Then, apply another final layer to touch up.
Now, you may be confused about which sealant to use. Here are some of our favorite sealants.
So, grab any of these and you’re good to go!
FAQs
Question: Why does my shower not drain away?
Answer: This mainly occurs when your shower drain is clogged. A shower clog occurs when debris such as hair and dirt block the drain pipe. Sometimes the clog is external, but it may occur in the pipe. In that case, use commercial drain cleaners.
Question: Where should shower waste be positioned?
Answer: Usually, the shower waste should be situated in the inner corner of the shower tray. This looks aesthetically pleasing since the drain hole is hidden from view.
Question: What is the smallest shower tray size?
Answer: Shower trays can range from anywhere between 25 to 45 mm in height. This gives you a wide variety of options to choose from, depending on your bathroom size.
Bottom Line
That was the end of our post.
If you have any questions regarding a low profile shower tray overflowing, do let us know in the comments below.
Goodbye!