Floor-level shower tray: Advantages
Choosing a floor-level shower tray not only responds to an aesthetic trend, but also to criteria of functionality and accessibility that are increasingly valued in bathroom design.
These installations provide visual continuity, improve the safety of the space and adapt perfectly to any type of user, from the elderly to children or people with reduced mobility.
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The floor-level shower tray concept
A floor-level shower is a system in which the shower tray is installed at the same level as the bathroom floor, with no steps, raised edges or visible unevenness. This creates a continuous surface between the shower area and the rest of the bathroom, providing a clean, modern and accessible aesthetic.
Floor-level shower trends
The floor-level shower option has become one of the major trends in contemporary bathroom design. Both interior designers and architects are betting on this type of solution for its minimalist aesthetics, its integration with the pavement and the ability to generate a feeling of spaciousness.
These showers are known as walk-in showers and their design seeks to eliminate all visual and physical barriers, creating a continuous and fluid space, often combined with en-suite bedrooms.
The key to this type of shower is especially focused on achieving a perfect waterproofing of the support and ensuring a well-executed slope of the pavement, which directs the water efficiently towards the drain, avoiding puddles or splashes. A minimum slope of 2% is recommended in the shower area and the use of non-slip materials.
Linear drainage is the most commonly used in these configurations, as it allows the slope to be placed in one direction only, being easier to execute and keeps the design cleaner.
Ceramic, natural stone or micro-cement finishes allow the shower tray to blend in with the rest of the bathroom and shower area. Discover more modern shower options at: https://www.estilguru.com/banos-modernos-con-duchas-modernas/
Advantages of installing the shower at floor level
The technical and functional advantages of installing it make it a highly recommendable option in renovations and new construction projects. These are:
- Universal accessibility: it facilitates step-free entry, making it ideal as a floor-level shower for the elderly, people with reduced mobility or small children.
- Increased safety: eliminating the slope reduces the risk of tripping or falling. In addition, it can be combined with anti-slip flooring to improve bathroom safety.
- Easy cleaning and maintenance: no complicated corners, hygiene is maintained with less effort.
- Guaranteed watertightness: using waterproofing systems avoids the risk of leaks, prolonging the useful life of the bathroom.
- Flexibility in design: various ceramic and natural stone coverings can be chosen, allowing for customized designs.
What to consider for floor-level showers?
Although creating a floor-level shower is an aesthetic and functional solution, its execution requires technical aspects to ensure its durability, safety and watertightness. The most critical elements are the waterproofing of the support, the slope of the assembly and the correct choice of the drainage system.
Waterproofing of shower at floor level
In floor-level showers, water can leak more easily if proper measures are not taken. Shower waterproofing including floor and walls is essential.
To prevent shower leaks, GURU Water-Stop waterproofing sheets are used to create a continuous and effective barrier under the cladding. They also absorb structural movements, are resistant to prolonged humidity and are easily installed with adhesive cement. The waterproofing in the shower wall joint is done with Safeband.
You can learn more about this issue at this link:
https://www.estilguru.com/impermeabilizar-duchas/
For those looking for convenience and speed of installation and absolute efficiency, purchasing Guru’s Superkit prefabricated shower system is ideal for ease of execution. It includes in a single package the key elements for a professional, watertight and durable installation with all the necessary elements to create a shower at ground level: prefabricated base plate, waterproofing sheet, drain, sealing strips… Apart from what is included in the kit, you only need cement and the desired coating.
Recommended drains
Drainage systems are another key issue in flush-to-floor showers. Since there is no rim to contain the water, drainage must be more efficient and faster.
You can choose between different types of shower drains for flush plates, such as drains:
- Squares
- Linear
- On time
- For vinyl flooring
At Guru, the kits come with all the necessary elements for installation, including the Water-stop waterproofing membrane.
It must be said that the most commonly used option in flush-to-floor shower trays are linear drains, as they facilitate installation and allow for a unique slope. You can appreciate their elegant design especially in the Evolux linear drain model.
Installing a floor-level shower tray with quick solutions
Floor-level shower trays have evolved and offer all the advantages of a functional area and comfort space. Beyond their aesthetics, they are becoming a contemporary project that is increasingly easy and quick to implement, especially with the right systems.
Check out our waterproofing systems website and our GURU catalog to discover much more.
FAQS
A floor-level shower is one in which the shower tray is installed at the same level as the bathroom floor, without steps or raised edges. This creates a continuous surface that improves accessibility, facilitates cleaning and provides a modern, minimalist design.
What are the advantages of installing a floor-level shower?
Installing a shower at floor level offers advantages such as universal accessibility, greater safety by eliminating unevenness, ease of cleaning, better watertightness with waterproof systems such as Water-Stop, and freedom of design thanks to integration with any type of cladding.
What type of drain is recommended for a floor-level shower?
The linear drain is the most commonly used in floor-level showers, since it allows a slope in only one direction, facilitates the evacuation of water and maintains a clean and elegant aesthetic. At GURU you can find models such as the Evolux linear drain, ideal for this type of installation.
How is waterproofing guaranteed in a floor-level shower?
To prevent leaks, a waterproofing film such as Water-Stop should be applied under the liner, the joints should be sealed with Safeband strips and a correct slope to the drain should be ensured. This guarantees a completely watertight and durable shower.
Can a shower be installed flush with the floor in a renovation?
Yes, floor-level showers are perfect for both new construction and renovations, as there are prefabricated systems such as GURU’s Superkit that facilitate a quick, professional and safe installation, with all the necessary elements to create a modern and accessible space.
What materials are best suited for a floor-level shower?
The most commonly used are ceramic tiles, natural stone or microcement, as they allow the tray to be visually integrated with the rest of the bathroom. In addition, it is recommended to use non-slip surfaces for greater safety.
What maintenance does a floor-level shower require?
Maintenance is minimal. It is enough to regularly clean the surface and check the joints and drainage grating. As it has no edges or corners, it is much more hygienic than traditional shower trays.