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How to optimise slope towards the drain in the shower

This tiled shower floor doesn't have the most optimal fall towards the drain especially down the bottom of the picture. The door is far away so that's not an issue. What's simplest solution to create some fall towards the drain other than ripping the old tiles out and replacing them etc. I was thinking a free standing shower tray with lips around. But then again the existing drain would be off-centred from the outlet of the tray as majority are standard centre or corner outlet configuration. Can any flexible pipe be used to connect the shower tray outlet to the existing drain? Any other simpler options? tile over tile and create new slope? Much appreciated. Thanks

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MitchellMc

Hi @rahad,

While it’s technically possible to install a shower tray over existing tiles, it’s not typically recommended as a retrofit. Most trays are designed to be installed before the wall linings go in—wall sheets usually sit down onto the edge of the tray, and the wall tiles then continue down into it. Installing one after the fact would leave gaps that are difficult to waterproof properly, and the outlet misalignment with your existing drain adds another challenge. Using a flexible connector might seem like an option, but it's not ideal in a wet area due to the risk of leaks and issues with drainage compliance. You’d really want a plumber involved for any such modification.

In your case, I think the most straightforward and practical solution would be to tile over the existing tiles. This would allow you to build in the correct fall toward the drain. If the fall only needs a minor adjustment, a skilled tiler might be able to use just adhesive to create the slope rather than pouring a full screed bed, which would keep the profile low and make the job simpler.

Before jumping into that, though, it’d be good to clarify exactly what problem you’re trying to solve. Is water pooling in that lower section? Does it eventually drain away, or does it sit there? In some cases, if the issue is minor, you might be able to manage it by adding a low barrier strip to contain water more effectively.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

rahad

Hi @MitchellMc thank you so much about your clarification on shower tray. Minor water pool around the area shown by the arrow in the image. It does evaporate with good ventilation. The door is at safe distance so thats not an issue. I have thought about barrier strips. Mrs not happy with the idea. Now I'm more inclined to tile over tiles approach to keep is simpler as I wouldn't wanna touch the whole bathroom for this minor issue.

MitchellMc

Did you try to upload another image with the arrow, @rahad? It's understandable that strips on the floor might not be the best option, though you'll have a lip from the tile on tile.

Mitchell

rahad

IMG_5945(1).jpg

rahad

Sorry, that was the image, area around arrow is where water sits for a bit till it evaporates.

Would tile over tiles create a natural lip around?

MitchellMc

Thanks for that @rahad. A floor trim would only help prevent water escaping the shower recess and wouldn't resolve pooling water at that location. Tiling over sounds like the best option. I'd recommend enlisting the services of a tiler, and getting the fall just right can be tricky, as seen from your current installation.

Mitchell

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