The right shower design can truly transform a space. From decorative ensuites to practical communal showers, they need to be not only aesthetically appealing but also functional and hygienic. This is when choosing the right shower drain can make all the difference.

This article is here to help you source the best shower drain to match your shower’s style, size, and usage. Our experts will guide you through the various types of shower drains available, compatible shower drain grates, and key factors to consider when selecting a shower drain.

First, What is a Shower Drain?

Shower drains are a key part of your shower’s drainage system. Located on the floor of your shower unit, shower tray, or wet room, it collects and removes surface water from the shower floor. This is essential for preventing water from rising, damaging your shower unit, and allowing wastewater to move safely into the drainage system. 

Different Types of Shower Drains

There are two main types of shower drainage commonly found in domestic and commercial properties. These are known as linear and central point shower drains, each with its distinct features and advantages. 

Linear Shower Drains

Also known as channel drains, trench drains, or line drains, these are long, narrow systems. These are installed at the bottom of sloped shower floors to collect and remove wastewater into the main drainage system underneath. Linear drains fit flush to the floor or tiles, which is not only a quicker and space-saving solution, but they also look more visually appealing.

Linear drains have compatible grates in a range of colours, styles, and patterns, making them a versatile option that suits various shower designs and layouts. They are also a popular choice for communal showers, such as those found in sports clubs, spas, and swimming pools, as well as large wet rooms and bathrooms, as they can handle higher water levels.

Although the finishes of linear shower drains create a more modern look, they can be trickier to clean and maintain. This is often due to the style of grate you choose, as intricate designs such as floral or curved may require additional cleaning to avoid blockages. 

The Different Types of Linear Drains & Grates

• JACKOBOARD J-DRAIN Linear Shower Drain – A high-capacity drain for domestic and commercial use with matching shower grate and aqua drain system.

• Solid Schluter KERDI-LINE-A Grate – A modern, brushed stainless steel finish with adjustable heights, available in 19mm or 30mm thickness. 

• Square Schluter KERDI-LINE-B Grate – Uniform square finish with a brushed stainless steel material. Designed for classic and contemporary showers.

• Tiled Schluter KERDI-LINE-C – Integrates seamlessly into tiled floor designs with a stylish tile-effect grate available in 19mm and 30mm frames.

• Frameless Schluter-KERDI-LINE-D – Includes a fleece fabric that bonds the tile adhesive and subbase for a seamless aesthetic. 

• Polished Schluter KERDI-LINE – A sleek, solid, mirror-effect finish ideal for modern showers. Available in 19mm and 300 grates. 

• Floral Schluter KERDI-LINE-IF-E – Decorative shower grate with a delicate petal pattern and brushed stainless steel polish. 

• Curve Schluter KERDI-LINE-IF-E – Unique curved pattern shower grate. Available in 23mm frames, adding a fun, distinct look to your shower.

• Pure Schluter KERDI-LINE-IF-E – A sophisticated and simplistic shower grate for linear shower drains requiring 23mm frames.

• Schluter KERDI-SHOWER LTS – Decorative square and rectangular sloped trays for subtle but adequate drainage.
  

Central (or Point) Shower Drains

Point shower drains are a common choice of shower drain and a standard option for individual shower installations. A point drain operates like a funnel, collecting water from the sloped shower tray and removing it into the main drainage system. 

With only one point for water to escape, central point drainage can take longer than linear drains to remove water. However, due to its design, they often take up less room and are easier to clean and maintain. There are also multiple options for where the drain is located, such as the centre, off-centre, or to one side. 

The Different Types of Central Drains & Trays

• Wedi Fundi Lingo Plus Shower Tray – Available with a central or off-centre drainage point.

• Wedi Fundo Primo Shower Tray – A gently sloped tray with a central drainage point.

• JACKOBOARD Aqua Quadrant – A curved shower tray and offset drain to fit unique designs.

• JACKOBOARD Aqua Flat – Square or rectangular walk-in shower element developed for suspended timber floors.

• Schluter KERDI_DRAIN – A range of square-shaped shower drains with distinct designs, including Trapezoid, Square, Classic, Bronze, and Tile.

The Importance of Installing and Maintaining a Shower Drain

There is no wrong option when it comes to choosing the right shower drain, as it often comes down to personal preference, location, and budget. The most important takeaway is that you have a shower drain to:

• Connect your shower to the main drainage system

• Provide effective drainage & removal of wastewater

• Avoid water pooling & damaging shower units

• Prolonging the lifespan of your shower unit

• Preventing bigger & costlier plumbing problems

• Improving & maintaining hygiene

Read more: 

• Best Bathroom Fittings For Tiled Bathrooms

• 5 Different Types of Tile Trim for A Bathroom

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Shower Drain

To get the most out of your shower drain and drainage system, it’s important to install the right drain. Here are some key questions to consider:

• Brand: Some shower drains require the shower grates from the same brand. At Premium Tile Trim, we offer shower drains and gates from JACKOBOARD, Schluter and wedi.   

• Drain Size: You will want a drain that can handle the number of showers you have. This may determine the type of drain you need.

• Price: You may have a set budget for your shower installation project, which may impact the type of shower drain you purchase.

• Colour: This refers more to the drain grate and the look you are aiming for. Grate colours include silver, grey, charcoal, black, bronze, and patterned tile.

• Drain Location: Drains can be installed in domestic bathrooms, wetrooms, commercial showers, leisure centres, and outdoor showers, which may influence your choice of drain. 

• Shape: With various shapes of shower drain grates, including square, channel, floral, curved, and pure grates, you can customise your shower drain.

Speak to the Experts

If you are unsure which shower drain is best suited to your domestic or commercial project, get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team.