How Much Will an Anti-Slip Shower Tray Cost?

How Much Will an Anti-Slip Shower Tray Cost?

No matter your budget, an anti-slip shower tray is a smart investment. We recommend choosing the highest quality anti-slip tray your budget allows. 

Keep in mind that the shower tray is the one element in your bathroom that's best to get right the first time - replacing it later can cause the most disruption.

When planning to install an anti-slip shower tray, understanding the full costs and benefits will help make your decision far more straightforward. We should dive into the different types, price factors, and installation options and find answers to common questions about purchasing a high-quality, safe shower tray.

Factors That will Influence the Cost of an Anti-Slip Shower Tray

1. Material Quality and Durability

Anti-slip shower trays, and standard shower trays for that matter, are manufactured using a variety of materials like acrylic, resin, stone, and even composite mixes. The majority of shower trays that are marked or marketed as anti-slip are actually just standard shower trays with an applied anti-slip coating - sprayed or painted onto the surface of the tray. There's nothing wrong with that, but it is worth knowing. But it's also worth acknowledging that shower trays or anti-slip shower trays manufactured using high-quality materials will ensure the longevity of the shower tray and will offer a higher resistance to damage.

2. Safety Features and Anti-Slip Technology

Anti-slip technology varies widely. As an example, SENSTEC anti-slip shower trays, include a patented micro-dimpled pattern across the surface of the shower tray that provides a superior grip and ensures ultimate safety in wet, soapy conditions. This feature requires a specialized manufacturing process that integrates the anti-slip feature directly into the tray itself so that it's part of the actual shower tray. This type of integrated design will most definitely contribute to a higher price point but, at the same time, will add significant safety and added features such as easy cleanability and a level of comfort described during independent testing as massage-like.

As previously mentioned, the other alternative is an applied anti-slip coating, which can be sprayed or painted onto the surface of an already manufactured shower tray. This type of surface can sometimes be uncomfortable to stand on if it's an anti-slip coating that has a grit-type texture. The other type is a smooth, invisible coating.

Whichever type of applied coating is chosen, it's worth noting that these coatings are universally recognized as difficult to keep clean. A quick Google of this problem will help you find thread upon thread of conversations across the internet with hundreds of cleaning tips.

It's also necessary to mention that these types of coatings will need to be replaced over time. Manufacturer's advice will vary, but three to five years is the norm, if not sooner. The replacement timescale is obviously dependent on usage and how much scrubbing and chemicals have been used during cleaning. Also bear in mind that it will be unknown what the slip resistance of the newly applied coating will be, as it cannot be tested in the same manner as during the manufacture of the original surface.

3. Sizing and Customization

Shower trays will come in a number of standard sizes, but there are companies that will offer customized sizing for more extensive or unique bathroom layouts. Custom sizes are ideal for irregular bathroom spaces or precisely sized recesses. Different, unique color options are also available from some manufacturers. These types of customizations will increase costs due to additional labor and the materials involved.

4. Design and Aesthetic Appeal

Options such as color customization, finish (matte or glossy), and low-profile designs that make entry easier add to the aesthetic appeal and will most definitely increase costs. A well-designed tray with a sleek look can elevate the overall bathroom style and look.

Cost Breakdown: What to Expect

Basic Anti-Slip Trays

These are generally lower-cost options made from basic materials with minimal anti-slip technology. They'll start around $150 but will lack premium features or durability

Mid-Range Options

A mid-range anti-slip shower tray may include more substantial materials like resin, moderate anti-slip patterns, and a choice of finishes. These typically range from $400 to $1,500, balancing cost and quality.

Premium Anti-Slip Shower Trays

Top-of-the-line trays, such as SENSTEC, are designed for enhanced safety, durability, and aesthetics. Premium trays incorporate advanced anti-slip technology, patented designs, and customization options, generally priced between $1,500 and $3,500 depending on the size, customization and premium specifics.

Additional Costs to Consider

  • Installation Fees
  • Installing a shower tray, especially one with custom specifications, requires professional labor, costing anywhere from $200 to $2,500. Complex installations, such as retrofitting an old bathroom, will obviously incur higher fees based on labor and location.
  • Waterproofing and Plumbing Adjustments
  • Waterproofing the area around the tray is essential to prevent leaks and extend the life of the showering area. This process can add $300 to $1,000 to your project. Additionally, plumbing modifications might be necessary to ensure the new tray aligns with your existing setup.
  • Maintenance Costs
  • While high-quality trays like SENSTEC have zero maintenance, regular cleaning and occasional inspections will ensure longevity. Some trays may require specialized cleaning solutions, adding costs over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Anti-Slip Shower Trays Worth the Investment?

Absolutely. Safety-focused shower trays will prevent slips and falls, providing peace of mind for aging-in-place individuals, families, and caregivers. Their durable materials and anti-slip technology make them a long-term investment in safety and comfort.

2. How Does the SENSTEC Shower Tray Compare to Other Options?

The SENSTEC tray uses advanced anti-slip features and has a micro-dimple design for enhanced grip, durability, and comfort. It is a premium option offering lifetime high performance, making it ideal for customers looking for the best-in-class for safety and quality.

3. Can Anti-Slip Shower Trays Be Retrofitted in Existing Bathrooms?

Yes, anti-slip trays can be retrofitted, although the cost will vary based on the specific dimensions of your bathroom and existing plumbing. Custom sizing options can sometimes make retrofitting a little easier. You will pay more for the customization of the tray, but the installation costs will be lower, so costs can balance out, and you end with a better finish.

4. What Is the Lifespan of a High-Quality Anti-Slip Shower Tray?

High-quality trays can last upwards of 10-25 years or more, depending on usage and maintenance. For safety, cleanability and comfort, SENSTEC offers a warranty for the lifetime of the tray. Choosing a durable, well-constructed tray ensures the product has a longer life and provides better performance.

5. How Will I Know how Anti-Slip my Shower Tray is?

You can determine how anti-slip your shower tray is by looking at its slip resistance rating. Quality manufacturers across the world will test their trays to specific safety standards, often providing various slip resistance scores or ratings. For example, one of the most visual slip tests is the German Barefoot Ramp Test. This test is carried out in wet, soapy, barefoot conditions, ideal for testing shower trays. If you're considering an anti-slip shower tray, check with the supplier about these ratings or any testing data they provide. Additionally, some trays have patented surface patterns or materials designed to enhance traction so you can feel more confident about the safety levels of your preferred shower tray.

Conclusion

An anti-slip shower tray is more than just a bathroom feature - it's a long-term investment in safety and convenience. Understanding all the various costs, features, and benefits of different shower trays can help you choose a product that's both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally considering options like comfort and, most importantly, ease of cleaning reminds you that you're investing in peace of mind, knowing that every detail is crafted to enhance safety and comfort.

No matter your budget, an anti-slip shower tray is a smart investment. We recommend choosing the highest quality anti-slip tray your budget allows. Keep in mind that the shower tray is the one element in your bathroom that's best to get right the first time - replacing it later can cause the most disruption.

 

You may be interested in - How to Stop your Shower Tray from Being Slippy

Shaping safety through design

Our patented dimple design provides exceptional grip, reducing the risk of slips and falls even when the shower floor is wet and soapy. This means you can shower with confidence, knowing you are standing on an extremely stable and secure surface.