Types of Shower Drains: Linear, Square, and Concealed
- ceramiquecostainc
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
The way water evacuates from your shower is an invisible element that greatly impacts both the design and performance of the space. Choosing the right drain not only affects aesthetics but also drainage speed, ease of cleaning, and overall comfort. Below, we explore in detail the three main styles that Céramique Costa installs throughout Montreal and its surrounding areas.
1. Linear Drain: Minimalist Elegance and High Capacity
Visually, a linear drain appears as an elongated slot, typically installed against the wall or at the edge of the shower floor. This format allows for large-format tiles without breaks along the slope, creating a continuous surface that enhances the feeling of spaciousness.
Advantages
Clean look:Â Perfect for contemporary designs or urban spa-style bathrooms.
Efficient drainage:Â Its length provides a larger drainage area, ideal for high-use showers.
Easy cleaning:Â Water flows along the entire channel, carrying soap residue away rather than accumulating in one spot.
Considerations
Requires a uniform slope toward the channel; the subfloor must be installed with precision.
Designer grates—in stainless steel, brass, or even matching the shower floor material—add cost compared to a standard central drain.
2. Square (Point) Drain: Classic and Versatile
The square drain, or its round counterpart, is placed centrally or at a strategic point on the shower floor. Its compact shape makes for straightforward installation and suits almost any shower pan material.
Advantages
Quick installation:Â The slope and outlet focus on a single spot.
Universal compatibility:Â Works with acrylic, resin, ceramic, or natural stone pans.
Simple maintenance:Â Removing the grate to clean the trap takes just seconds.
Considerations
In larger showers, a second drain may be needed to prevent pooling.
As a single outlet, it can collect hair and soap scum if not cleaned regularly.
3. Concealed Drain: Architectural Detail Without Compromise
Designed for those seeking seamless continuity, the concealed drain is integrated beneath the same tile or stone as the rest of the shower floor. The grate is custom-cut so the pattern of the tile continues without visible breaks.
Advantages
Maximum discretion:Â Ideal for luxury bathrooms, design-focused projects, or hotel suites where every detail matters.
High performance:Â Offers drainage as effective as a linear channel, thanks to hidden perimeter channels.
Total customization:Â The floor covering can match the rest of your bathroom exactly in material and finish.
Considerations
Requires a tile-ready system or a specially machined stone pan.
Installation and slope adjustments must be handled by skilled technicians to guarantee waterproofing.
How to Choose the Right Drain
Shower size:
Small (≤1 m²): A square drain may suffice.
Medium to large (>1 m²): Consider a linear or, for a monolithic look, a concealed drain.
Design style:
Minimalist and modern → Linear
Traditional and practical → Square
High-end and bespoke → Concealed
Frequency of use:
Occasional use (guest bathrooms) → Any option works.
Heavy use (large families or commercial settings) → Linear or Concealed
Budget and timeline:
Fastest and most economical installation → Square drain
Custom projects with longer timelines → Linear or concealed drain
At Céramique Costa, we combine your vision with our technical expertise to help you select the best drainage system for your project. From the sleek look of a stainless-steel slot to the subtlety of a hidden drain, we ensure flawless finishes and efficient water evacuation.
Ready to define the style and function of your shower? Contact us to schedule a free technical consultation: we’ll assess your space, determine the necessary slopes, and present the best grate designs and finishes for your needs. Let’s talk and design your perfect shower!