Linear drains vs standard wastes
Why linear drains look better and when standard wastes make more sense.
At a glance
Quick Checklist
Key points at a glance
- 1Linear drains need a single-direction floor fall
- 2Check drain capacity matches your shower flow
- 3Consider access for cleaning and maintenance
- 4Match drain finish to your brassware
- 5Measure floor void depth for trap
Questions to ask your installer
Take these to your next conversation with your fitter
- 1Is my floor void deep enough for a linear drain trap?
- 2What flow rate do I need for my shower system?
- 3How easy is it to clean and access the trap?
- 4Which wall should the drain go against?
- 5Can you use a tile-insert grate for a seamless look?
- 6What happens if the drain blocks - how do I clear it?
💡 Tip: A good installer will welcome these questions. If they dismiss them, that's a red flag.
💡Myth vs Reality
Common Myth
"Linear drains are just for looks"
The Reality
They also make floor tiling easier as you only need fall in one direction, reducing lippage risk.
Common Myth
"Standard wastes are outdated"
The Reality
Round wastes still work well and can be easier to install and maintain in some situations.
What to look for
- •Flow rate capacity - should handle at least 25 litres per minute
- •Trap depth requirements (typically 50-80mm)
- •Tile insert options for seamless floor appearance
- •Quality stainless steel construction for longevity
Common mistakes
- •Installing in a floor with insufficient void for the trap
- •Choosing a drain with inadequate flow rate for the shower head
- •Not allowing for cleaning access
- •Mismatching the finish with other bathroom fittings
Quality considerations
- •Cheap linear drains often have weak grates that flex and crack
- •Quality units have removable hair catchers
- •Some brands offer lifetime warranties on stainless steel
- •Consider matching the drain finish to your tap/shower finish
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This guide is written to help you make informed decisions, not to sell you anything. Always discuss your specific situation with a qualified installer.