We have selected the materials we show very carefully as they have to be suitable for the complicated machining involved..Marble as an example has been used for generations for baths etc.We will not use Travertine however due to the unpredictable nature of the material and we carefully select only the most suitable materials.Limestones often have fossils and shell fragments which are characteristic of this material thus every tray produced in this material will be different.If you require a tray that has no fossils or shell fragments select a Quartz Stone.

Why use a Composite Stone

A popular alternative to natural stone or Marble is a composite stone.This remarkable material often used for worktops is extremely durable and looks identical to some Limestones and Marbles.It has the advantage of being very predictable,very durable and is very complimentary to many Travertines and polished Marbles.This material is available in a wide selection of natural shades and is increasingly used particularly in larger trays or where a contemporary theme is required.Composite trays do not require sealing

Is there a limit to the size of tray you produce

Yes 1500 x 1000 x 30mm is usually our largest tray in natural materials but we can produce up to 3000 x 1400mm in composite stone.We can also produce complex shapes,please send a sketch of your requirements.

Why do you show two wastes on some trays.

This depends on the design of the tray,there are two options.

1/A flat tray with traction grooves usually has two wastes.Some residue of water will remain in the tray particularly in the traction grooves.It is possible to slightly tilt the tray if the waste is at one end but it is important to ensure the tray is adequately supported over its total area.This is not normally considered an issue as most wet rooms will have some surface water residue and many customers prefer the look of the traction grooves and the twin wastes.The twin wastes can be situated almost anywhere in the tray and the traction groove pattern is adjusted to suit.It is possible to install a heating pad under the tray which will slightly warm the tray and aid evaporation.

2/We can produce trays with a fall to waste,this means a single waste situated in the centre of the tray or offset towards one corner depending on the size of the tray.It is not possible to incorporate a traction groove pattern in a tray of this type.You wiil always get some water retention in a minimal tray even with a fall to waste particularly in larger trays due to surface tension.See above paragraph regarding heating pads.

Position of waste

We can position the waste to suit you.Always ensure that they are not over a joist and you have sufficient clearance for the waste housing.See McAlpine Waste drawing.

You require approximately 85mm clearance beneath the tray.The Chrome flange fits directly into the tray,apply a bead of silicone around the flange recess before fitting and ensure the flange is secure and watertight.

Can you produce deeper trays

No all our minimal trays are 30mm thick.

Are the trays sealed and will I have to reseal

We seal all our natural material trays.It certainly does not hurt to re apply this sealer and it is a very simple procedure but you must ensure the tray is completely clean and totally dry.The sealer should be applied following the instructions on the container.A typical period is every 6 months.You do not need to reseal a quartz tray.

Lines and variations in Limestone and Marble trays.

These are natural materials and variances will always occur,this is considered part of the appeal of natural materials.Most Limestones can show very fine lines that resemble fine cracks,these are not cracks or faults but are called Quartz lines and are probably the strongest part of the stone.Limestones often show fossils and shell fragments,this is a characteristic of this natural material.If you require complete predictability of shade and no variations select a composite stone.

What about the subfloor

You must adequately support the total area of the tray on a perfectly smooth surface,30mm Backer board designed for applications such as this is ideal.You cannot lay the tray directly onto the joists.

Glass grooves

We can groove the tray on any side to suit 10mm toughened glass.You can obtain this locally from most glass suppliers.

What is the delivery time

It depends on how busy we are but we try to produce within 7/10 working days from receipt of order.

How do I order

We need a sketch of the tray you require showing..

• Dimensions
• position of the waste outlets
• position of glass groove if required
• Any features such as "lead in"

Send as an attachment or Fax.If you are unsure about anything call us 0121 784 6800 and we will try to help

We then create a detailed drawing which we return to you for approval.Once you have approved this,we can proceed.

Where can I see some examples of trays and tiles.

We have a selection of trays in different materials on show in our showrooms,most in bathroom settings together with the matching or complimentary tiles.If you decide to visit please bring a simple sketch of your bathroom and any ideas you wish to incorporate.We also produce matching vanity units and furniture.

Fitting your tray.

You must adequately support the total area of the tray on a perfectly smooth surface,30mm Backer board designed for applications such as this is ideal.You cannot lay the tray directly onto the joists.

The tray can be bedded onto a suitable flexible tile adhesive supporting the whole tray.It is very important to ensure the tray is perfectly level particularly with a central waste tray.It is possible to slightly tilt a flat tray towards the wastes but the tray must be completely supported.Remember this will alter the angle of a glass groove.

The McAlpine waste chrome flange fits directly into the tray and is designed to sit just below the level of the tray.Do not place the rubber seal under the flange as it will raise it above the level of the tray.Apply silicone to the waste recess in the tray and securely screw the waste assembly together.