Walk-in, level-access showers have become standard in villas, hotels and premium apartments. The element that makes them work is the linear shower drain: a slim channel that collects water along one edge instead of a single point in the middle.
Why choose a linear drain?
- The floor only needs to slope in one direction, which suits large-format tiles.
- It allows a step-free entry for accessibility.
- It looks clean and architectural, especially with tile-insert covers.
1. Choose the position
The most popular positions are against the back wall, below the shower glass, or across the entrance. A wall-side drain keeps the floor visually clean. A drain under the glass helps stop water spreading into the rest of the bathroom.
2. Size the length and flow
Match the channel length to the shower width wherever possible. Check the flow rate against the shower head, especially for rain showers and multiple outlets, which can deliver far more water than a standard head.
3. Pick the cover
- Slotted or patterned stainless steel covers are durable and easy to clean.
- Tile-insert covers take the floor tile so the drain almost disappears.
- Brushed, polished or coloured finishes can match the bathroom fittings.
4. Get the waterproofing detail right
Choose channels with a factory-fitted membrane flange and follow the waterproofing system’s details around the channel. This is where most shower leaks start.
5. Plan for cleaning
A removable hair strainer and an easily lifted cover make routine cleaning simple, which matters especially in hotels.
Lengths we supply
Our stainless steel linear drains come in 300, 450, 600, 900 and 1200 mm lengths, 80 mm wide with a 50 mm outlet, in AISI 316 (304 optional). See the full size table on the linear shower drain page.
Square grate or tile insert?
| Square grate | Tile insert | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Visible stainless pattern | Almost invisible |
| Cleaning | Easiest | Lift the tiled insert |
| Best for | Hotels, busy bathrooms | Villas, luxury bathrooms |
See the tile-insert linear shower drain.
Falls and screed
The floor falls one way, towards the channel. Check that the screed depth allows for the channel and outlet heights before the floor is laid.
Common mistakes
- A channel that is too short for the shower width.
- Poor waterproofing at the channel flange.
- No access to the trap for cleaning.
Frequently asked questions
Should the linear drain go against the wall or in the centre?
Both work; a wall-side position is the most popular and keeps the floor visually clean.
Can the drain run the full width of the shower?
Yes, choose the length closest to the shower width.
Is an odour trap included?
An odour trap is available as an option.
Talk to us
We supply stainless steel linear drains in a range of lengths and finishes. Browse floor and shower drains.
Related products: Linear Shower Drain – Square Grate · Tile-Insert Linear Shower Drain · Stainless Steel Slot Drains