What Size Shower Screen for 1700 Tray? Perfect Fit Guide

Selecting the correct shower screen for a 1700 tray requires precise measurement and an understanding of your specific layout. A 1700 tray refers to a rectangular shower base that measures 1700 millimetres in length, typically providing a spacious foundation for a walk-in shower. The screen, which is the glass partition that contains the water, must align perfectly with the tray’s dimensions to ensure a watertight seal and a streamlined appearance.

Understanding the 1700 Shower Tray Specification

The 1700 measurement is the internal clear space between the walls of your bathroom, which dictates the available room for the shower base itself. When specifying a screen for this setup, you must look beyond the tray number and focus on the actual dimensions of the screen panel. Screens are often sold in standard increments, and for a 1700 configuration, a 900mm or 1000mm screen width is frequently the ideal match to maintain symmetry and leave appropriate access gaps.

Standard Sizing and Configuration

Most builders and bathroom designers recommend a screen width of 900mm or 1000mm when working with a 1700 tray. This creates a balanced aesthetic where the screen sits centrally, leaving roughly 350mm to 400mm of clearance on the open side for easy entry. The height is usually consistent across the market, typically ranging from 1800mm to 2000mm, ensuring the water is contained effectively during use.

• 900mm screen width: Offers a modern, asymmetric look with ample walking space.
• 1000mm screen width: Provides a more balanced, centre-division appearance.
• 1200mm screen width: Suitable if the shower is positioned in a corner or requires full enclosure.

Measuring for a Perfect Fit

To determine the exact size you need, you cannot rely solely on the tray’s name. You must perform a manual check of the current installation. Use a tape measure to check the distance between the two fixed walls or panels where the screen will sit. It is crucial to measure the opening at the top, middle, and bottom, as walls can be slightly uneven. The screen you order must match the smallest measurement to prevent any gaps that could cause leakage.

The Role of the C-frame

Shower screens are often categorized by their framing: framed, semi-frameless, or frameless. For a 1700 tray, frameless or semi-frameless options are usually preferred because they offer a sleek, minimalist look that maximises the sense of space. However, the "C-frame"—the metal structure that holds the glass—must be accounted for in the final dimensions. If you order 1000mm glass, the C-frame will push the total width outward, so you must verify the external dimensions of the screen unit to ensure it fits within the tray's borders.

Material and Hardware Considerations

The thickness of the glass is another critical factor when specifying your screen. For a 1700 tray layout, where the screen may span a significant distance, 10mm tempered glass is the industry standard for safety and stability. This thickness resists flexing and reduces the risk of shattering. Additionally, the choice of hinges and handles—whether top-mounted, hidden, or pivot hinges—will affect the overall clearance and functionality of the screen within the limited space of the tray.

Custom Solutions vs. Off-the-Shelf

While standard sizes are cost-effective and readily available, some bathrooms require a custom-cut screen. If your tiling deviates from the norm or the walls are not perfectly parallel, a bespoke 1700 tray screen might be necessary. Custom manufacturing allows for precise angles and handles the tricky realities of uneven floors. Although this option is more expensive, it guarantees a perfect fit that eliminates the risk of water escaping and damaging the substructure of the tray.

Ultimately, the best size is the one that aligns with your specific measurements and design goals. By matching the screen width to the available clear space rather than just the tray number, you ensure a watertight, stable, and elegant shower enclosure that performs well for years.