Shower Tray Replacement in Warsaw — Removal and New Tray Installation

An old tray that is cracked, yellowed or simply wrong for your renovated bathroom — a replacement sorts it out in a single visit. But you cannot just pull the old one out and drop the new one in: careful removal is needed to avoid damaging tiles and drain pipes, the trap and waste connection must be inspected, and the new tray has to be fitted with proper sealing. In blocks on Ursynow, flats on Wola, new builds in Bielany — every building has its own connection quirks. If you would rather skip the demolition hassle and the risk of a leak, call a professional. We replace trays regularly and know what surprises hide underneath an old shower.

How much does replacement cost

The replacement price covers removal of the old tray, base preparation and fitting the new one. The cost depends on the type of old and new tray, the condition of the drain underneath, whether the waste pipe needs rerouting and the extent of finishing work (sealing, tile trimming). If the old tray sat on a brick plinth, dismantling takes longer. Current prices for all bathroom work are in the table below. Removal, fixings and sealant are included in the replacement price; the new tray and trap are supplied by the client.

How the replacement works

1. Inspection: we assess the old tray’s condition, mounting type (frame, legs, brick plinth), and access to the trap and drain pipe.
2. We shut off the water and disconnect the waste. The apron panel is removed if present.
3. Removing the old tray: we carefully disconnect the trap and lift the tray off its frame. If it was bonded with adhesive or expanding foam, we cut it free while protecting the walls and floor.
4. Drain check: we inspect the pipe, trap and gradient. If the trap is old or blocked we replace it. If the fall is insufficient we correct it.
5. Base preparation: we level the surface, repair the screed if needed, or fit a new frame.
6. Fitting the new tray: we assemble the frame or legs, level the tray and connect the new trap to the drain.
7. Flow test: we fill the tray with water, check how fast it drains and inspect every joint for leaks.
8. Sealing: we apply sanitary silicone along the wall joint, fit the apron panel and confirm that the trap remains accessible.

Common mistakes during replacement

• Rough removal — tiles on the wall and floor get damaged, leading to extra tiling repairs.
• Reusing the old trap — it is already clogged or worn and starts leaking or smelling within weeks.
• Not checking the drain gradient after removal — the new tray is fitted but water drains slowly.
• Fitting a differently sized tray without preparing the base — gaps, unevenness and exposed wall sections remain.
• Using general-purpose silicone instead of sanitary grade — it turns black and grows mould within months.
• Skipping the leak test before sealing the wall joint — the leak is found only after finishing is complete.
• Sealing the apron permanently with no maintenance access — when a blockage occurs the panel has to be broken open.

Important: drain and water-supply work requires care. A poor connection means a leak and potential flooding of the flat below. If you lack plumbing experience, it is better to call a professional.

What to prepare before the visit

• Buy the new tray and trap — make sure the waste hole diameter matches (usually 60 or 90 mm).
• Measure the old tray: if the new one is a different size, let the technician know in advance.
• Check whether the new tray comes with a frame and legs or if they need to be bought separately.
• Clear the bathroom of furniture and belongings — access is needed from all sides.
• Ensure access to the waste stack and shut-off valves — the water will need to be turned off.
• Prepare a spot for the old tray — it needs to go somewhere (waste removal is charged separately).
• Check the wall condition around the tray — if tiles are held by old silicone they may come away during removal.
• If the old tray sits on a brick plinth, let us know — this affects the time needed.
• Take a photo of the current drain connection — useful when discussing details with the technician.

A real case from Warsaw

We were called to a flat on Ursynow. The bathroom had an old 80 x 80 enamelled steel tray — the enamel was cracked and the base had rust spots. The owners had bought a new 90 x 90 acrylic tray and wanted it fitted in the same location. We removed the old tray and found a cement brick plinth underneath, plus a trap in terrible shape: a cracked elbow joint and grime throughout. We dismantled the plinth, cleaned the area, and replaced the trap with a new slim model with a water seal. The new tray went onto its factory frame, was levelled and connected to the drain. Because the new tray was 10 cm wider, one wall tile had to be trimmed. We filled the tray — water drained fast, every joint was dry. Sanitary silicone was applied around the perimeter. The whole job took about 3.5 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fit a tray of a different size?
Yes, but the drain connection and wall condition must be taken into account. A wider tray may require tile trimming. A narrower one will leave an exposed wall section that needs finishing.

Does the trap have to be replaced?
If the old trap is more than 5–7 years old or visibly worn, yes — replace it now. Saving money on the trap costs more when it starts leaking a few months later.

Will tiles be damaged during removal?
It depends on how the old tray was installed. If the silicone was applied over the tiles it peels off carefully. If tiles overlapped the tray rim there is a risk of chipping the bottom row.

How long does replacement take?
A standard like-for-like swap takes 2–3 hours. If the plinth needs dismantling, the drain rerouting or the size adapting, allow 4–5 hours.

What happens to the old tray?
The technician removes it and leaves it in the flat. Carrying it out to the street or skip is a separate service.

Can I switch from a tray to a walk-in shower?
Technically yes, but that is a different scope of work: floor waterproofing, a linear drain and screed modification are all needed. Discuss it with the technician beforehand — we will assess on site.

Book the replacement

We replace shower trays across Warsaw: we remove the old one, prepare the base and fit the new tray with a full drain check. We work with acrylic, steel and ceramic — any size and shape. Fixings and sealant are included. Get in touch and we will arrange a convenient date.