Complete Guide to chose a Shower Drains: Classification, Sizes, and Top Brands

Introduction

Choosing a shower drain is an important step when arranging a shower area, especially if you plan to abandon the traditional tray. The drain is responsible for the effective drainage of water and prevents flooding of the room. In this article, we will tell you what a shower drain is, what types exist, what to pay attention to when choosing, and how to choose the right drain for your shower.

Types of shower drains

Classification by design features

• Point shower drains
  Point drains are compact devices that are installed at a specific point on the floor, most often in the center of the shower area. They are suitable for small bathrooms and provide effective drainage. These drains are easy to install and often have an attractive design.
• Linear shower drains
  Linear drains are distinguished by their shape – they are long, narrow structures that are placed along the wall or in the middle of the shower area. Linear drains are becoming increasingly popular due to their modern appearance and the ability to create a minimalist design in the bathroom. They allow you to lay tiles with a minimal slope, which simplifies installation and increases comfort when using the shower.
• Wall-mounted and wall-mounted drains
  Wall-mounted and wall-mounted drains are installed near the wall of the shower area, making them virtually invisible. Such drains are ideal for design solutions where clean lines and minimalism are important. They ensure fast water drainage, which is especially important for large shower cabins.
• Trapezoid shower enclosures
  Trapezoid drains are used in shower enclosures of non-standard shapes, usually trapezoidal. These drains are suitable for corner shower cabins and provide effective water drainage even in complex geometric structures. The sizes of such corners vary (80×80, 90×90, 100×100), which allows you to choose the best option for any room.

Classification by type of release

• Floor drains with vertical outlet
  Vertical drains are installed directly into the floor and provide fast drainage due to direct connection to the sewerage system. Such drains are most often used in private houses, where it is possible to design a sewerage system for the needs of a specific bathroom.
• Traps with a side (horizontal) outlet
  Traps with a horizontal outlet discharge water to the side, which makes them convenient for installation in apartments where sewer pipes are located horizontally under the floor. This type of trap is often used in buildings with limited possibilities for changing the layout of plumbing.

Classification by the presence of a shutter

• Traps with a water seal
  A water seal is a water barrier that prevents odors from the sewer from entering the room. Traps with a water seal are the most common and reliable, but require regular maintenance to maintain the water level in the siphon.
• Dry Seal Floor Drains
  A dry seal uses a mechanical valve that opens under water pressure and closes after it has drained, preventing odors from entering even when the floor drain is completely dry. These floor drains are suitable for showers that are rarely used or rooms with irregular drainage.
• Traps with a rotating siphon
  The rotating siphon allows you to change the direction of the outlet, which simplifies the installation of the trap in limited space conditions. This is especially convenient for non-standard layouts or the need to connect to an existing sewer system.

Classification by material of manufacture

• Plastic shower drains
  Plastic drains are lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. They are corrosion resistant, but may be less durable than their metal counterparts.
• Metal traps (stainless steel, brass)
  Metal traps provide high strength and durability. They are resistant to aggressive environments and have an aesthetic appearance. Brass and steel traps can be a good choice for premium interiors.
• Black matte shower drains
  Black matte shower drains are a design solution for modern interiors. They combine style and functionality, giving the bathroom an elegant and unique look. However, such drains require special care, since stains and plaque are more visible on their surface.

Dimensions and technical characteristics of shower drains

Selecting the size of the ladder

• How to choose the length of a shower drain
  The length of the drain should match the size of the shower area. Standard lengths include 600 mm, 700 mm, 800 mm and 1200 mm. For narrow shower areas, choose short drains, and for larger ones, choose longer ones to ensure effective drainage of water across the entire area.
• Shower Drain Width
  The width of the drain affects its capacity and aesthetics. Wide drains handle larger volumes of water better and are often used in showers without a tray.
• Shower Drain Height
  The minimum height of the drain is important for installation in apartments with low ceilings. Standard drain heights range from 55 mm (for low-profile models) to 100 mm and higher. For rooms with limited space, it is better to choose low-profile models with a height of 55-70 mm.

Shower drain capacity

The capacity of the drain determines how much water it can drain per unit of time. For powerful shower systems or showers with multiple water sources, choose drains with high capacity. It is also important to consider the diameter of the outlet: the larger it is, the faster the water will drain.

Features of installation of shower traps

Trayless shower drains

Showers without a tray are becoming increasingly popular due to their modern look and convenience. In such systems, the drain plays a key role, ensuring rapid drainage of water. Particular attention should be paid to the correct floor slope and sealing.

What needs to be coordinated when installing a shower drain in Russia and how to do it?

The installation of a shower drain, especially in multi-apartment buildings, may require approval to avoid operational problems.

• Changing the configuration of floors and waterproofing:
  If the installation of a drain involves changing the floor level or violating the existing waterproofing, this requires approval from the management company or HOA.
• Changes to the drainage system:
  If you plan to redevelop or change the drainage system, for example, move or add sewer pipes, you must obtain permission from the local authorities (BTI or City Registration Center).
• Official registration of redevelopment:
  If the installation of a drain or shower cabin involves redevelopment (e.g. moving walls, changing utility lines), it is necessary to draw up a redevelopment project and coordinate it with local government bodies. This process includes filing an application with the MFC, providing technical documentation and obtaining permission.

Additional components and spare parts

For long-term operation of the ladder, it is important to correctly select and install all the necessary components: valves, waterproofing, fasteners, etc. Spare parts in case of breakdown will not be superfluous.

• Valves and check valves for shower traps
  Check valves prevent unpleasant odors and water from the sewer system from flowing back into the room.

Overview of manufacturers and ratings of shower drains

There are many manufacturers of shower drains on the market.

Here is a brief overview of the most popular brands:

• Alcaplast is a European brand known for its high-quality and durable products.
• Berges – products are distinguished by high reliability and stylish design.
• Pestan specializes in innovative solutions, offering a wide range of models.
• TECE offers premium class drains that combine functionality and aesthetics.
• Viega – the products of this brand are famous for their German quality and thoughtful design.
• Ck Drain is a German manufacturer of shower trays and shower drains. The well-thought-out design of the brand’s plumbing ensures easy maintenance and durability of shower trays. The exterior design of shower trays is handled by the company’s own design bureau.
• RAVAK  is a well-known Czech manufacturer of sanitary ware and furniture that has developed its own production technologies.

Rating of the best shower traps

Based on user reviews and professional recommendations, we offer a list of the most popular and reliable brands and models of shower drains:

Geberit CleanLine

• Type: Linear trap.
• Features: Easy to clean, stylish design, high quality materials.
• Flow rate: Up to 48 l/min.

Price: Premium segment.

Ravak Chrome

• Type: Point drain.
• Features: Chrome grille, high quality materials, easy installation.
• Flow rate: Up to 30 l/min.

Price: Mid-price segment.

Ck Drain Premium Line

• Type: Linear trap.
• Features: Stainless steel, adjustable length, antibacterial protection.
• Flow rate: Up to 50 l/min.
• Price: Mid/premium segment.

Tips for choosing a shower drain

When choosing a shower drain, consider the following aspects:

• Bathroom dimensions and layout – the drain should match the dimensions of the shower area.
• Interior design and style – the drain should fit harmoniously into the overall style of the bathroom.
• Budget and price range – ladders come in different price categories, from budget plastic models to premium metal options. Decide on your budget in advance and choose a ladder within your financial capabilities.
• Material quality and durability – it is important to choose a drain made of materials that are resistant to moisture, chemicals and corrosion. For long-term use, choose drains made of stainless steel or brass.
• Ease of installation and maintenance – the drain should be easy to install and maintain. This is especially important if you plan to do the repairs yourself, or if access to the drain for cleaning and maintenance will be limited.
• Capacity – Consider the amount of water that will flow into the drain. For powerful shower systems, choose models with high capacity and a sufficient outlet width.
• Functionality – Look for additional features on the drain, such as a dry seal, rotary trap, check valve or designer grates.

Common mistakes when choosing and installing a drain

• Incorrect calculation of the floor slope – insufficient slope will lead to stagnation of water and possible leaks. The recommended floor slope in the shower area is 1-2% (approximately 1-2 cm per meter of length). This will ensure effective drainage of water and prevent its stagnation.

• Choosing a drain with an inappropriate flow rate may result in water not being able to drain away quickly, creating puddles in the shower area.
• Ignoring the drain height – when underfloor space is limited, it is important to choose low-profile models.
• Improper sealing – lack of quality waterproofing around the drain can cause leaks and damage the flooring.

Care and maintenance of shower drains

Proper operation for long service life

To ensure that the ladder lasts a long time, it is important to follow the following care recommendations:

• Regular cleaning – once every few months it is recommended to remove the drain grate and clean the siphon from accumulated debris, hair and soap residue.
• Use drain cleaners – To prevent blockages, you can periodically use special drain cleaners that prevent deposits from forming.
• Checking and replacing components – if your trap has a water seal or dry seal, monitor their condition. In case of malfunction, promptly replace worn parts.
• Preventing blockages and unpleasant odors – If you notice poor drainage or the appearance of an unpleasant odor, check the trap and valves for blockages or malfunctions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is better: a tray or a drain in the shower?
  A drain allows you to create a modern and minimalist bathroom design without a tray, while a tray can be more convenient to install and maintain. The choice depends on preferences, area and features of the room.
• What length of drain to choose for a small shower?
  For small shower areas, drains of 600 mm or 700 mm in length are suitable. It is important to consider the size of the shower area and the slope of the floor.
• How often should the drain be cleaned?
  It is recommended to clean the drain every few months to avoid blockages and unpleasant odors. The frequency of maintenance depends on the intensity of shower use.
• Is it possible to install a drain in an apartment?
  Installing a drain in an apartment is possible, but may require approval from utility services and compliance with certain building codes.

Conclusion

Choosing a shower drain is an important step in creating a comfortable and safe shower area. Taking into account many factors, such as the type of drain, its dimensions, the material it is made from, and installation features, you can choose the ideal option that will last a long time and provide comfort in use. Don’t forget to regularly maintain the drain to prevent potential problems and extend its service life.