Shower Drains and Bath Fixtures

Linear or point drain: length, slope and outlet position

A shower drain is chosen before the tile. A linear drain, such as a 24 or 32 inch channel, sits along a wall or the entry and lets you slope the whole floor in one direction, while a square point drain sits in the middle and needs the floor pitched on four sides. Either way the floor needs a fall of about a quarter inch per foot toward the drain, so confirm the drain's length against the shower width.

Check how the drain handles tile and water. Tile-insert grates take a piece of your floor tile, while plain grates show the metal; both rest on a flange that must bond into the waterproof membrane. Look at the outlet size and position, whether centered or at one end, so it lines up with the waste pipe below. For the metal, 304 stainless resists rust in a normal bathroom, and brushed or satin is a finish rather than a different metal.

Handheld kits, curtain rods and water guards

Handheld shower kits are described by hose length, for example 5 feet, and by finish, such as matte black or brass. Standard shower hoses and arms use a 1/2 inch thread, but check that the kit's hose end and bracket fit your existing arm before assuming it will thread on. Brass bodies usually outlast plastic, which can crack at the connection if over-tightened.

Curtain rods are sold as an adjustable range, for example 144 to 168 inches, so measure the span between the walls and pick a rod whose range includes it. Silicone water guards stick to the floor to hold water in, and their length, such as 39 inches, should match the opening they close. Measure twice, and clean the surface before pressing them down.

Questions about Shower Drains and Bath Fixtures

What is the difference between a tile-insert drain and a plain grate?

A tile-insert grate holds a piece of your own floor tile so the drain nearly disappears, while a plain grate shows its metal finish. The insert needs a precise tile thickness and cut, so check the depth the drain allows before choosing it.

How long should a linear shower drain be?

Any length works if the whole floor slopes toward the channel. Many installations span the full width of the shower or run along one wall, which keeps the slope in a single plane and makes tiling simpler. Leave a little clearance at each end for the wall tile.

Will a handheld shower kit fit my existing shower arm?

Most kits attach to a standard 1/2 inch arm or wall elbow, but a kit that includes its own bracket, diverter or hose may need a different connection. Check the thread size and the included parts, and keep the old fittings until the new kit seals without leaks.