Slate & Slate-Effect Shower Trays

Slate is created when nature takes its course over millions of years, gradually squashing together layers of clay and volcanic ash under immense pressure. It is no surprise then that slate is prized for its silky smooth texture, its incredible durability and a surface that is naturally less slippery than any other. For bathroom users, a slate finish adds a “WOW factor” that brings a level of sophistication and earthy charm to a shower space. Slate shower trays try to capture this unique look. They are made from moulded resin or composite materials, which can be installed much more quickly than you would need to install a real slate shower tray, and of course, they are much lighter!

The coarse texture gives grip underfoot, making showers a safer and more comfortable experience. As many of them have a low-profile design, they blend in perfectly with the rest of your modern bathroom, infact, totally seamlessly. The choice of finishes is superb. You can opt for dark grey, white, or a natural stone look. What is more, they all drain efficiently, so your surface is always clean and dry after use. Slate shower trays bring all this and a lot more to your bathroom. They last; they look the part, and they do the job every single time.

Slate-effect shower trays at Plumbing World

The difference between slate and slate-effect lies mainly in their composition and maintenance needs. Slate is a natural material, while slate-effect trays are made from durable stone resin or acrylic:

1) Durable stone resin trays – they are a solid option for a bathroom. Strong, long-lasting and looking great in either modern or traditional styles. The material has serious staying power; it will not crack or wear quickly, so you can use it every day in any room – for example, Tissino Giorgio2 Rectangular Slate Effect Shower Tray 900mm x 800mm White Slate

2) Acrylic trays - a lighter, more laid-back option with a smooth finish that pairs well with many modern bathroom designs – example Kudos Connect 2 Slate Effect Rectangular Shower Tray 1500mm x 900mm - Grey Slate

At Plumbing World, we believe our slate-effect shower trays are a real winner. They bring a bit of authentic style to the bathroom, but without all the hassle and expense of proper slate.

Each design is engineered for easy cleaning, resistance to scratches, and reliable everyday use. Plumbing World provides an extensive range of shapes, sizes, and finishes to suit different bathroom layouts. Options include square, rectangular, and quadrant trays in matt black, gunmetal grey, and white. Customers can discover the ideal fit to complement both modern and traditional bathroom styles.

Colour options

Most natural slate is usually found in shades of black, grey, and green tones. Slate-effect trays, however, expand these colour possibilities, introducing modern finishes that complement a wider range of bathroom styles:

• Black - such as the Aqua I Urban Slate Effect Square Shower Tray & Waste 800mm x 800mm - Midnight Black add striking contrast, pairing beautifully with matt black fittings or chrome accents

• Cappuccino - available in designs like the Tissino Giorgio2 Rectangular Slate Effect Shower Tray 1500mm x 700mm - Soft Taupe Slate, introduces warmth and luxury, pairing beautifully with brushed brass or polished nickel fittings

• Graphite - such as the Tissino Giorgio2 Rectangular Slate Effect Shower Tray 1200x750mm Graphite Slate, brings depth and texture, perfect for minimal or industrial-style bathrooms.

• Greige - for something softer, the RAK - Feeling Rectangular Shower Tray 1600mm x 800mm Solid Greige blends warm beige with grey for a harmonious, calming tone

• Grey - options, like the Aqua i Ash Grey Slate Effect Shower Tray - 800mm x 800mm Quadrant, offer a timeless balance that suits both modern and traditional bathrooms

• White - for a fresh, contemporary feel, the Merlyn Truestone Rectangular Shower Tray 1400mm x 800mm - White creates a bright and airy space

Each of the above finishes is designed to suit different décors, helping customers create the perfect fit for their home.

Slate and its effect on décor

Slate provides a look that never goes out of style, a natural, timeless look that works beautifully in both modern and traditional bathroom styles. Slate-effect shower trays do real stone's aesthetic justice but come with the added perk of being a lot lighter and far easier to live with in your bathroom. The dark tones of slate, like black, grey, and the special graphite colour, make the lighter finishes and tiles “pop”.

Using these slate-effect materials is a “no-brainer” if you want the look of real stone without the hassle of maintaining it. Pairing them with chrome or brushed steel taps will add a modern/retro touch to your bathroom that is just as effective as it is stylish. All in all, slate and slate-effect surfaces are the perfect fit for bathrooms. They are a winning combination of style, practicality, and seriously long-lasting elegance.

Seven features to look for when you buy slate-effect shower trays

Choosing the right slate-effect shower tray involves checking design, function, and comfort to ensure lasting quality and performance:

1) Anti-slip surface – think about getting a tray with a nicely textured finish for more grip. This especially pays off on wet floors, as it can really help prevent people from slipping

2) Colour options – there are lots of stunning slate-effect trays, which are available in modern shades like grey, graphite, or cappuccino. If you buy one that matches the style of your bathroom then you will achieve a harmonious look

3) Durability – a tray made from top-quality composite materials is probably going to be the strongest option and can resist cracking or wearing out. Many trays use a combination of stone resin and advanced coatings, too, for extra peace of mind

4) Easy cleaning – it is worth buying a tray with a nice smooth surface that stops water and dirt from building up. This sort of low-maintenance design will keep your bathroom looking clean and fresh

5) Flush fitting – a flush-to-floor tray is a great idea if you are looking for a modern and sleek finish for your wet room. It can really make a bathroom feel more accessible and add a touch of minimalist style

6) Shape and size – from quadrant to rectangular, there is a range to suit every layout. Measure your space carefully before purchase to ensure a perfect fit and simple install

7) Waste position – check that the tray’s waste outlet matches your existing plumbing layout for easy installation. A well-placed outlet ensures efficient drainage and prevents standing water during showering

By Popular Sizes

The slate-effect shower trays range at Plumbing World provide various sizes to suit different bathroom layouts and styles, offering both strength and modern appeal:

• 1200mm x 800mm – compact and practical, this size suits smaller rooms while retaining a modern look and offering strong functionality with easy installation

• 1200mm x 900mm – ideal for tighter spaces, providing comfort and balance, this tray fits seamlessly into modern and traditional bathrooms

• 1400mm x 900mm – slightly larger, it offers generous room for washing, a perfect fit for a refined space with contemporary appeal

• 1600mm x 800mm – designed for versatility, this tray complements different types of shower enclosures, maintaining a sleek, brushed steel appearance

• 1700mm x 800mm – a perfect option for narrow layouts, providing comfort and a modern surface that enhances your bathroom style

• 1700mm x 900mm – offers an ideal mix of convenience and luxury, matching both traditional and modern interiors with ease

• 1800mm x 900mm – generous in size, this tray provides more room for movement, complementing larger bathrooms beautifully

• 2000mm x 800mm – long and streamlined, this tray offers elegant proportions for spacious settings with contemporary styling

• 2000mm x 900mm – the largest option, offering luxurious space and style that suits modern homes and premium bathroom designs

FAQs

1. Are slate-effect shower trays made from real stone?

Real slate is a metamorphic rock that is held in high esteem for its texture and its distinctive layered look. Slate-effect shower trays, on the other hand, are made from a composite material that is designed to mimic real slate and is priced accordingly. These modern-day trays combine resin, stone particles and advanced finishes to achieve a realistic look. The result is a lighter and easier-to-use tray that offers all the strength you need, plus it is easy to clean and maintain.

2. Are slate shower trays compatible with all shower enclosures?

Most slate-effect trays are designed to slot in with a wide variety of shower enclosures. You can buy quadrant, rectangular, and square designs to match your bathroom design needs. If you pair them up correctly, they will give you a watertight finish and a secure installation. In short, just double-check the measurements before buying, to make sure you do not end up with a tray that is too big or too small.

3. What shape options are available?

Slate-effect shower trays come in several popular shapes to match different bathroom layouts and enclosures:

• Offset quadrant – ideal for corner enclosures that need extra standing space – example, Tissino Giorgio2 Offset Quad Slate Effect Shower Tray 1000x800mm RH Black Slate

• Quadrant – a curved shape that suits compact bathrooms and saves valuable room – example, Hudson Reed Quadrant Shower Tray 700mm x 700mm - Slate Grey

• Rectangular – a versatile choice offering spacious showering areas for modern bathrooms – example, Roman Infinity Slate Effect Rectangular Shower Tray 1800mm x 800mm - White

• Square – simple and practical, perfect for both small and medium spaces – example, Aqua I Urban Slate Effect Rectangular Shower Tray & Waste 1200mm x 760mm - Charcoal Grey

4. Which brands of slate-style shower trays can I buy?

Plumbing World offers a wide selection of trusted brands producing high-quality slate-effect trays. These include Aqua i, Eastbrook, Hudson Reed, Kudos, MX Elements, and Merlyn Showering. You can also find options from Rak Ceramics, Roman Showers, Serene Bathrooms, and Tissino. Each brand provides distinctive designs, finishes, and sizes to suit every bathroom style.

5. Can these shower trays be installed flush to the floor?

Yes, many slate-effect trays are designed with a flush-to-floor fitting in mind, which always gives a sleek and low-key look. That layout also makes for easy step-free access, which is perfect for modern wet rooms or tiny bathrooms. Just remember to always check your floor type and waste setup before you start installation.

6. Do you sell stone-effect shower trays with slip-resistant surfaces?

Yes, Plumbing World sells stone-effect trays with anti-slip finishes to give you more confidence when you are in the shower, and some peace of mind too. The Aqua i Urban Slate Effect Square Shower Tray with Waste, Arctic White, is a great example of one of our stone-effect shower trays. It provides substantial grip without compromising on style or everyday practical use.