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If you are remodeling your bathroom to include a standalone shower, consider the type of drain that you want to use before you start construction. Choosing the right drain type can make drain cleaning easier and prevent hair and soap clogs from ruining your day.
Something as simple as selecting a shower drain seems like an inconsequential decision, but it’s not. The following tips can help you understand the difference between the various types of shower drains, and how shower drains differ from bathtub drains.
If you aren’t sure what type of drain would work best for your shower, contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain today. We install drains and fixtures and provide excellent drain cleaning services.
Difference Between a Tub and Shower Drain
When it comes to choosing a tub or shower drain, think about how the type of drain will stand up to regular drain cleaning. A shower has a floor drain that removes wastewater as you clean yourself. With a tub drain, you have to open and close the drain to keep water in or let it run out. This requires a lift-and-turn mechanism.
When you push it down and turn clockwise, it closes the drain. To open the drain, you lift up, turning the mechanism counterclockwise. Sometimes, tubs have levers that open and close the drain. Shower drains are often simpler, depending on your personal preferences.
Pipe Connection Size
Standalone shower and bathtubs also have different size connections. A combination shower and tub drain typically uses a 2-inch connection to the pipes that remove the used water. Conversely, tub drains use a 1 ½-inch connection. The impact of size on drain cleaning depends on the type of mechanism you use to prevent clogs. Since shower drains are floor drains, you can choose one that will trap hair and other debris before it goes into your pipes.
Connections
Shower drains definitely include perks when it comes to preventing expensive drain cleaning and unclogging services. They don’t require a pipe from the shower to the drain system in your home as bathtubs do.
Build Your Shower to Code
bluefrog Plumbing + Drain hires technicians familiar with local plumbing codes. If you plan to convert a tub into a standalone shower stall or vice versa, hire the local experts.
Without the correct drain types and connections, wastewater can accumulate under the shower, causing health hazards and foul odors. Sitting wastewater can also lead to clogs that require drain cleaning services.
Main Categories of Shower Drains
There are a massive number of shower drain types. However, they mainly fall in two categories, linear or point drains. Point drains account for the majority of shower drains. Located in the middle of the floor, they collect water off a floor that slopes toward the drain.
Point Drains vs. Linear Drains
Understanding the differences between point drains and linear drains helps you choose a style that matches your space and long-term maintenance expectations.
A point drain is a traditional round or square drain placed in the center of the shower floor. Water flows down from all sides into a single point. A linear drain is a long, narrow drain installed along one wall or at the shower threshold. Instead of water flowing toward the center, the floor directs water in one direction toward the channel-style opening.
Each drain style has its own benefits and considerations, so the right choice depends on your layout and the type of shower you plan to build or remodel. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each in more detail, and things to consider when choosing the right type.
Point Drains
Key Features
Point drains are the most common option found in residential showers. They come in a variety of grate patterns and shapes, and they work well with most tile sizes.
Pros
- Affordable and widely available
- Works with most shower layouts
- Easy to find replacement parts
- Compatible with standard tile and typical shower drain sizes
Cons
- May limit tile size because the floor must slope in multiple directions
- Not ideal for barrier-free or curbless showers
- Can create visual clutter if a sleek, minimalist look is preferred
Considerations When Choosing Point Drains
Point drains are a good fit for traditional shower designs or bathrooms where budget and simplicity are the top priorities. They also work well when using smaller tiles, since the floor needs a four-way slope to direct water to the center. Homeowners should also consider the typical shower drain size, which is often 2 inches for residential showers, although some older homes may have different dimensions.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Point drains are straightforward to clean. That’s good news if you need to remove debris that’s built up over time. The grates lift out easily, giving clear access to the drain body and hair trap. Routine cleaning prevents buildup and reduces odors, which can prevent more serious clogs down the line.
Linear Drains
Key Features
Linear drains are long, rectangular drains that provide a sleek and modern look. They’re popular in luxury and accessible bathrooms because they only require the shower floor to slope in one direction.
Pros
- Ideal for curbless or barrier-free showers
- Works with large-format tiles
- Creates a clean, modern appearance
- Helps water move quickly in high-flow showers
Cons
- Higher cost compared to point drains
- Installation may require more precise planning
- Requires enough space along one wall or threshold
Considerations When Choosing Linear Drains
Linear drains allow much more design flexibility. Because the floor slopes in only one direction, they pair well with large tiles or natural stone slabs. When comparing point drains to linear drains, consider the shower layout and the importance of accessibility in your design.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Linear drains have a removable grate and a larger channel for water flow. They can handle more water at once, but they also benefit from routine cleaning. Because the drain opening is longer, debris can collect in different spots. Keeping the channel clean helps maintain good drainage and prevents clogs.
Drain Cleaning Services from bluefrog Plumbing + Drain
isbluefrog Plumbing + Drain a full-service plumbing company. Whether you require drain cleaning or installation or other plumbing services, we are here for you. Call us when you need to install a water heater, have a leak in your sewer or water line and for emergency plumbing any time of the day or night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of shower drains?
The main types of shower drains include point drains, linear drains and tile-in drains. Point drains are placed in the center of the shower floor. Linear drains run along one wall or at the threshold. Tile-in drains are designed to hold a tile insert so the drain blends into the floor. Each type offers different advantages depending on layout, tile size and design preferences.
What is the most popular shower drain type?
Point drains remain the most widely used because they’re affordable and compatible with most plumbing systems. They work well with a traditional sloped shower floor and suit a range of tile sizes. Linear drains are growing in popularity in modern and accessible bathrooms because they support large tiles and create a sleek, continuous design.
What size should a shower drain be?
Most residential showers use a 2-inch drain opening. This size supports strong water flow and meets plumbing code in many areas. Some specialty showers or older homes may have different sizes, so it helps to confirm measurements before choosing a drain. Using the correct drain size protects against slow drainage and standing water.
What size drain pipe should you have for a shower?
A typical shower uses a 2-inch drain pipe. This size allows water to move efficiently through the plumbing system while preventing backups. Larger or smaller pipes may be used in specific situations, but 2 inches is the standard for most modern installations. Ensuring the correct pipe size is an important part of building a reliable shower system that lasts.
