Shower tray receipt, handling, and storage: the best practices to know
A shower tray is a heavy, fragile item that is sensitive to mechanical stress and temperature variations. Improper handling, prolonged vertical storage, or an uneven support surface can cause deformations, cracks, or problems that only become visible after installation. Here are the best practices to follow from receipt of the package through installation.
Inspect the package immediately and note any specific anomaly.
Flat, on a level surface and in a dry area.
The corners and areas near the drain.
Store vertically for several days.
Inspect the shower tray upon delivery
As soon as the carrier arrives, the shower tray must be inspected before signing the delivery note. This step is essential for detecting transport damage, an impact, or a visible defect before handling.
A shower tray may appear intact on the outside even though a corner, edge, or stress area was impacted during transport.
- Check the packaging: inspect the condition of the box, pallet, and protective materials.
- Inspect sensitive areas: corners, edges, underside of the shower tray, and drain area.
- Take photos: useful in the event of an impact, crack, or transport dispute.
- Record reservations precisely: vague statements such as “subject to unpacking” are not legally sufficient.
- Contact customer service promptly: include photos and the order number if necessary.
Important point
Any reservation must be detailed and precise: “broken corner,” “damaged pallet,” “visible impact on the edge,” etc. A generic comment may not be accepted by the carrier.
How can you handle a shower tray without damaging it?
A shower tray is a heavy item that may be unbalanced depending on its shape and drain location. An incorrect grip or unevenly distributed impact can cause a crack or deformation that is not initially visible.
Transport flat
The shower tray must be carried horizontally to avoid mechanical stress on the corners and thin areas.
Two-person handling
The weight and dimensions make handling it alone strongly inadvisable.
Corner protection
The corners remain the most fragile areas in the event of an impact or sudden pressure.
Avoid localized pressure points
Never lift the shower tray only by the edges or the drain.
Good practice
Use handling gloves to improve your grip and prevent greasy marks on the visible surface of the shower tray.
Proper storage conditions before installation
If the shower tray is not installed immediately, its storage conditions become essential. An unsuitable position or environment may alter its geometry or damage its finish.
- Store flat: on a flat, rigid, continuous surface.
- Keep in a dry area: protected from excessive moisture and frost.
- Avoid direct sunlight: major temperature fluctuations can create stresses.
- Do not place anything on top: tools, boxes, or materials may deform the surface.
- Protect the corners: especially during long-term storage.
Common mistake
Storing the shower tray upright against a wall for several days can cause progressive bowing or loss of flatness, particularly with certain composite materials.
Special case: mineral resin shower trays
Mineral resin shower trays are technical composite materials. They offer excellent comfort, a modern finish, and good durability, but require suitable storage.
Flat surface required
An uneven support can create mechanical stresses over time.
Avoid major fluctuations
Direct sunlight or frost can alter the material’s internal stresses.
Regular rotation
For prolonged storage, repositioning the shower tray periodically is recommended.
Key point
The deformations observed in some shower trays are very often caused by prolonged vertical storage or uneven support before installation.
Precautions vary depending on the shower tray material.
Natural stone or marble
Store in a dry, stable environment on a rigid support with protection between the surfaces.
Ceramic
Sensitive to impacts and vibrations. An invisible crack may appear after a transport impact.
Mineral resin
Avoid localized pressure points or uneven supports at all costs.
Ultra-slim shower trays
Their slim profile requires even greater care during transport and storage.
Before installation: essential checks
Before permanently securing it, the shower tray must be prepared and checked under the right conditions to avoid unpleasant surprises after installation.
- Allowing the shower tray to acclimatize: for at least 24 hours in the installation room.
- Checking that the floor is level: the base must be stable, rigid, and perfectly level.
- Cleaning the surface: with a soft cloth before handling.
- Following the manufacturer's recommendations: particularly for compatible sealants, gaskets, and adhesives.
- Performing a drainage test: before permanently securing the waste and shower tray.
The most common mistakes to avoid
- Storing vertically for several days: risk of warping or deformation.
- Leaving the shower tray in the sun: high temperatures can create internal stresses.
- Installing on an uneven base: this can cause lasting mechanical stress.
- Using abrasive tools: using a cutter or abrasive directly on the visible surface.
- Fitting the waste too early: before fully checking the watertightness and drainage.
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