Linear drains are a personal favorite to many who want a stylish and functional shower. Because what’s not to like? It’s modern, minimalist, and more efficient! However, with so many options available in the market, it’s hard to find the perfect fit – particularly the length of a linear drain shower.
To help you do just that, this article will guide you through the process of knowing the ideal length for a linear shower drain. While taking into account the size and style of your shower, as well as the intended use!
What does a linear shower drain do?
A linear shower drain runs along one edge of the shower and its primary job is to efficiently channel water away from your shower down the drain. Generally, a linear drain shower keeps your shower floor as dry as possible for a safe bathing experience.
Additionally, traditional center drains can sometimes struggle to keep up with the bathroom water. This leads to pooling and potential water damage – a costly mistake if you ask. On the other hand, a vertical shower drain is designed to have a large surface area which allows better water flow and prevents any accumulation.
To make matters more interesting, linear drain showers are loved by many because of their low-profile design. This makes them ideal for barrier-free or curbless showers which are popular for individuals with challenges in mobility.
Of course, how can we forget that a linear shower drain is available in various lengths, styles, and finishes? This scalability allows interior designers or aesthetes obsessed with the looks of their homes to suit any bathroom design concept!
How long should a linear shower drain be?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Literally. How long your linear shower drain should be depends on different factors including the size of your shower space.
However, a common length for linear shower drains is around 24 to 36 inches or 30 to 90 cm. If you’re still unsure of what length to get, continue reading as we present you with different factors when determining the linear shower length needed for your bathroom.
Factors to consider when determining the length of a linear shower drain
Ah, finally, the best part.
As many of you might not know, the length of a linear shower drain is important to ensure proper water drainage and prevent any issues in your shower space. With that in mind, here are some factors to consider when learning how long should a linear shower drain be.
- Size of the shower area
First and foremost, measure the size of your shower area to determine the appropriate length for the linear drain. Keep in mind that it should be long enough to cover the entire width of the space. Otherwise, you are looking for an inefficient water floor towards the drain.
- Type of flooring material
A lot of individuals underestimate the type of flooring material when it comes to knowing the length of a linear shower drain. Little did they know that tiles have varying thicknesses, and this can affect the overall height of the shower floor. So if you want to achieve a seamless installation, ensure that the flooring material is compatible.
- Location of the drain
The location of the drain is also important because if the linear wall drain is placed too far away from where water accumulates, it may lead to poor drainage and pooling. At the same time, if the linear shower drain is too close to the shower entrance, it may not catch all the water, resulting in water leakage.
- Flow rate of the shower fixtures
Last but not least is the flow rate of the shower fixtures. Keep in mind that higher flow rates require a large drain capacity to handle the volume of water efficiently. Make sure that your chosen linear shower drain offers the right capacity to accommodate the flow rate of your bathroom.
Once you have taken these factors into account, you’ll finally be able to know the ideal length for a linear shower drain that suits your needs.
Linear shower drain pros and cons
Indeed, the efficient drainage and aesthetic advantages of a linear shower drain are out of this world. But just like any other thing on this planet, linear shower drains have their own pros and cons.
Pros:
- Effective Water Drainage
- Aesthetic Appeal
- Accessibility
- Easy Cleaning
- Customizable
- Improved safety when showering
Cons:
- More expensive than traditional shower drains
- Complex installation
- Bathroom floor height adjustment required
Learning the linear shower drain pros and cons is key to wholly embracing the functionality of this type of shower fixture. Better yet, consulting with professionals who specialize in shower installations will allow you to gain valuable insights and recommendations based on their knowledge and experience!
What you should consider: Linear Wall Drain
Before you choose from the best linear shower drains out there, you should also consider installing a linear wall drain. Though both advantages of the shower fixtures are not that far apart, their aesthetic appeal makes a world of difference.
A linear wall drain or wall-mounted linear drain is positioned along a wall, usually at or near the floor level. This type of drain offers a more modern and minimalist look because it eliminates the need to install a central floor drain. Plus, linear wall drains offer a more creative and open shower design space because of its placement.
Final Thoughts
Determining the appropriate length for a linear shower drain is crucial for proper water drainage and maintaining the aesthetics of your bathroom. Now if you consider the different factors we mentioned, you can choose the right length for your linear shower drain without a doubt! Remember, it’s always best to consult with a professional if you’re unsure.
