Linear Shower Drains: Sizes, Outlet Positions and What Builders Need to Know
A poorly specified shower drain creates problems that show up fast - a drain that you can’t install right, grout lifting at tile edges, or a drain that looks wrong against the tiling. For builders and plumbers, the shower drain is one of those details that either disappears into the floor, or becomes a callback.
Linear shower drains are the modern standard for walk-in showers and wet areas. Unlike a round/square floor waste sitting in the centre of the shower, a linear drain runs along one edge - typically against the wall or across the shower entry - collecting water across its full length and directing it to a single outlet.
Vincent Buda and Company stocks linear shower drains in all common sizes from 600 mm to 1800 mm, with multiple pattern options and outlet positions. Custom lengths and custom outlet positions are also available.
How Long Should the Shower Drain Be?
Ideally, almost the full width of the shower. This ensures all water is caught before it can escape the shower area, creating a more effective drainage point and simplifying the waterproofing fall.
Common stocked sizes at Vincent Buda and Company:
| Shower Width | Recommended Drain Length |
|---|---|
| 900 mm | 800 mm or 900 mm |
| 1000 mm | 900 mm or 1000 mm |
| 1200 mm | 1000 mm or 1200 mm |
| 1500 mm | 1200 mm or 1500 mm |
| 1800 mm | 1500 mm or 1800 mm |
A shorter drain means water needs more fall from a wider area to reach it, increasing the complexity of the tile layout and the risk of pooling in corners.
For non-standard widths or unique shower configurations, Vincent Buda and Company offers custom length shower drains - built to the exact millimetre your project requires.
Outlet Positions
The outlet position determines where the drain connects to the rest of the plumbing. Getting this right at the specification stage avoids expensive rework after waterproofing is down.
Centre outlet: The outlet sits at the midpoint of the drain length. This is the most common configuration and suits most standard installations.
End outlet: The outlet sits at one end of the drain. This is used when the plumbing rough-in is positioned to one side of the shower - common in corner showers or when existing pipework dictates the position.
Custom outlet position: For renovations or non-standard plumbing layouts, Vincent Buda and Company can manufacture drains with the outlet positioned at any point along the drain length.
The key rule: confirm drain position with the plumber before ordering the drain. A centre-outlet drain on an end-positioned rough-in means either the plumber reworks the pipework, or the drain gets returned.
Shower Drain Patterns
Heelguard
The most contemporary option. The heelguard pattern features narrow, evenly spaced gaps that deliver a clean architectural look while maintaining solid water flow. Available in stainless steel.
Tile Insert (Hidden Drain)
Perfect for minimalistic aesthetics where the goal is to make the drain virtually disappear. A tile sits inside the drain tray, creating a near-invisible drainage point that blends with the surrounding floor. The tile insert is not about water flow — it's about creating a seamless visual finish.
Lines Pattern
Sheet metal with a pressed linear pattern. Delivers a clean, modern look at a competitive price point. Sits between heelguard and tile insert in terms of visual impact.
| Pattern | Visual Style | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Heelguard | Contemporary, architectural | High-end bathrooms, accessible design |
| Tile Insert | Near-invisible, seamless | Minimalist design, custom tile finishes |
| Lines | Modern, clean | General residential, budget-conscious premium |
Materials: 304 vs 316 Stainless Steel
Linear shower drains from Vincent Buda and Company are manufactured in stainless steel.
304 stainless steel is the standard grade for internal bathroom applications. It handles the moisture, cleaning chemicals, and daily use of a residential bathroom without issue.
316 stainless steel is recommended for outdoor areas, pool house bathrooms, or any installation within 1 km of breaking surf where salt exposure is a factor.
For standard internal showers, 304 is the right specification.
Outlet Sizes
Shower drains connect to the plumbing via standard outlet sizes:
- 50 mm - suits smaller drains and low-flow applications
- 76 mm - the most common outlet for standard shower installations
- 95 mm - for larger drains or high-flow requirements
Confirm the outlet size against the plumbing rough-in before ordering. Removable strainer baskets (in 316 stainless steel) are available separately at Vincent Buda and Company in sizes to suit 50 mm, 76/80 mm, and 95 mm outlets.
Small Floor Wastes
Not every bathroom needs a linear drain. For smaller wet areas, ensuites, or laundries, a small floor waste may be the better option. Vincent Buda and Company stocks small square floor wastes in stainless steel and plastic/stainless combinations, available in heelguard, lines, and tile insert patterns.
Small floor wastes are available with different outlet positions (50 mm, 76 mm, and 95 mm) and in different material combinations to suit the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size shower drain do I need?
Ideally, almost the full width of the shower. This ensures maximum water capture and simplifies the fall for tiling. For a 1200 mm wide shower, a 1000 mm or 1200 mm drain is recommended.
Q: Can I get a custom length shower drain?
Yes. Vincent Buda and Company manufactures custom-length drains and custom outlet positions. Our drains are modified to length with outlets welded in position.
Q: Do shower drains come with accessories?
No. Strainer baskets, plastic lugs, and clips are sold separately unless the product is sold as a kit. Plastic base drain kits include the grate and body as a package.
Q: What's the difference between tile insert and heelguard?
Tile insert creates a near-invisible drain by recessing a tile into the tray — it's about aesthetics. Heelguard is an architectural grate pattern that is visible but delivers a clean, contemporary look while maintaining high water flow.
Q: How fast can I get shower drains?
Same day dispatch for Sydney Metro orders placed before 12 pm. Pickup within 4 hours from the Belmore warehouse.
Shop Shower Drains
Vincent Buda and Company stocks linear shower drains in all common lengths, patterns, and outlet configurations — plus custom options for non-standard projects.
Shop Shower Drains → buda.com.au/collections/shower-drains
Trust the Buda Since 1957.
