More clients are requesting linear drains for that high-end shower look, demanding a flawless install. For tilers ready to confidently install a linear drain in a shower and deliver that sleek, leak-proof finish, this guide details each critical step, from planning to tiling.
Planning Your Linear Drain Project
Effective planning directly contributes to a smooth installation and a lasting, professional result. This initial phase focuses on selecting appropriate components and understanding the layout requirements.
Choosing Your Linear Drain
Consider these factors to select the best linear drain for the specific shower environment and client needs.
Drain Feature | Options & Considerations | Impact for Tilers |
|---|---|---|
Material | 316 Stainless Steel, Quality Brass | Ensures durability, corrosion resistance in wet areas. |
Finish | Polished, Brushed, Matte Black, Oil-Rubbed Bronze | Match other fixtures; some finishes easier to maintain. |
Length | Varies; common 24" to 60"+ | Must suit shower dimensions; wall-to-wall or partial. |
Capacity | Gallons Per Minute (GPM) rating from manufacturer | Needs to accommodate all shower heads/sprays; prevents pooling. |
Grate Style | Tile Insert, Wedge Wire, Patterned | Tile insert requires precise tile cutting for a seamless look. |
Briefly, for tile-insert grates, remember the tile piece needs careful cutting for pattern alignment and to allow easy grate removal for future cleaning.
Essential Tools and Materials for Installation
Having all necessary items on hand before starting prevents delays and improves workflow.
Category | Item | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Drain Components | Linear Drain (Channel & Grate) | Selected model |
Drain Flange/Coupling | Confirm if included or separate purchase | |
Plumbing | Drain Pipe (PVC, ABS) | Match existing system |
P-Trap | Standard plumbing requirement | |
Primer & Cement (for plastic pipes) | For solvent welding | |
Substrate & Slope | Mortar Mix (Deck Mud) | For shower base and slope creation |
Optional: Pre-Sloped Shower Pan | Can simplify slope creation | |
Waterproofing | Waterproofing Membrane (Sheet or Liquid) | E.g., KERDI, RedGard, or Awisdom |
Waterproofing Bands/Fabric (for seams, corners) | For sheet membranes or reinforcing liquid applications | |
Sealant (compatible with waterproofing) | E.g., Polyurethane sealant | |
Tiling | Tiles (Floor & Wall) | As specified for project |
Thinset Mortar | Appropriate type for tiles and waterproofing system chosen | |
Grout | Sanded/unsanded, epoxy/cement-based as needed | |
Tile Spacers | For uniform grout lines | |
Measuring Tools | Tape Measure, Level (various lengths), Square | For accuracy |
Cutting Tools | Wet Tile Saw, Utility Knife, Hacksaw/Grinder (for drain) | Based on materials being cut |
Mixing & Spreading | Buckets, Mixing Drill/Paddle, Trowels (various) | Standard tiler equipment |
Fastening | Drill, Screwdriver, Appropriate Screws/Anchors | Based on subfloor |
Safety & Cleaning | Safety Glasses, Gloves, Dust Mask, Sponges, Rags | Essential for all jobs |
Always verify specific material requirements based on the chosen linear drain and waterproofing system manufacturer's guidelines.
Shower Layout and Drain Placement
Proper layout ensures effective drainage and a professional aesthetic.
Layout Aspect | Details & Factors | Impact for Tilers |
|---|---|---|
Drain Location | Against a wall, shower entrance, centrally (less common) | Influences slope direction and plumbing adjustments. |
Curbless: Often at far end for full wet room slope. | ||
Floor Slope | Typically 1/4 inch per foot (2% slope) towards the drain. | Single-direction slope simplifies tiling with large formats. |
Accurate slope prevents water pooling. | ||
Tile Layout Plan | Often best to start tiling from drain outwards. | Prioritizes clean lines at drain; hides cuts at perimeter. |
Tile-insert grates: Plan for precise cuts and pattern matching. |
Installing Your Linear Shower Drain: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps for a precise linear drain installation. Always consult specific manufacturer instructions for your chosen drain and waterproofing products.
1. Prepare the Subfloor
Ensure a solid, clean, and level base for your shower.
Thoroughly clean the area. Remove all dust, debris, and contaminants.
Check subfloor for levelness. Address significant dips or humps; use self-leveling compound on concrete if required. Confirm the subfloor is solid, with no flex or movement.
Accurately mark the drain's installation position and waste pipe center on the subfloor as per your plan. Use templates if provided by the drain manufacturer.
If working with a wooden subfloor, reinforce it to prevent deflection. Follow TCNA guidelines and local building codes.
2. Connect Drain to Plumbing
Establish a secure, leak-free plumbing connection. Adhere to all local plumbing codes.
Connect the drain body or outlet to the existing waste pipe. For PVC or ABS, use appropriate primer and cement for solvent welding. For threaded connections, apply suitable thread sealant.
Install a P-trap in the drain line. Ensure correct orientation and proper alignment with the drain outlet and main waste line for unobstructed flow.
Temporarily plug the drain outlet downstream of the P-trap. Fill the P-trap and drain with water. Observe for leaks at all connections for 15-30 minutes (or per local code). Resolve any leaks before proceeding.
3. Build Shower Base and Slope
Create a stable, correctly sloped base to direct water to the drain.
Mix and apply a dry-pack mortar bed to the shower area. Ensure consistent compaction.
Shape the mortar bed to create a consistent slope towards the linear drain. A typical slope is 1/4 inch per foot (2%).
Use a level and straightedge to confirm the slope is uniform and directs water effectively along the entire length of the drain.
Alternative: Using Pre-Sloped Shower Panels
If using pre-sloped panels, install them according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring they are level and fully supported on a bed of appropriate thinset mortar.
4. Apply Waterproofing Barrier
A continuous, correctly installed waterproofing layer is essential to prevent leaks and protect the structure. Strictly follow the chosen waterproofing system manufacturer's instructions.
Choose between sheet membranes (e.g., KERDI, Trugard) or liquid-applied membranes (e.g., RedGard, Hydro Ban). Each has specific application methods.
Adhere Membrane to Sloped Base
Apply appropriate thinset mortar (often unmodified, per manufacturer) to the shower base. Embed the sheet membrane, ensuring full coverage and a strong bond. Work out air bubbles.
Seal Seams and Corners
Overlap all membrane seams by at least 2 inches (or as specified). Seal seams and all inside/outside corners using compatible waterproofing bands and sealant (e.g., KERDI-BAND and KERDI-FIX).
Integrate with Drain Flange
Ensure a watertight seal between the membrane and the linear drain's bonding flange. Many drains have integrated collars (e.g., KERDI-LINE); bond these securely to the surrounding membrane per instructions. For clamp-style drains, the membrane typically goes under the clamping ring, which is then tightened.
Apply to Correct Thickness
Apply the liquid membrane using a roller or brush in multiple coats as specified by the manufacturer to achieve the required dry film thickness (DFT). Allow proper drying time between coats.
Treat Corners and Changes of Plane
Embed reinforcing fabric into the first coat of liquid membrane at all corners, changes of plane, and around the drain flange, if recommended by the system.
Integrate with Drain Flange
Ensure the liquid membrane fully encapsulates or bonds to the drain flange according to manufacturer details, creating a continuous waterproof seal.
Plug the drain outlet. Fill the shower area with water (typically 2 inches deep, or to cover the highest point of waterproofing at the curb/entry). Maintain for at least 24 hours (or as per local code/manufacturer). Inspect thoroughly for any leaks. Do not proceed with tiling until the flood test is passed.
5. Set the Linear Drain Channel
Precise placement and securing of the drain channel are next.
Carefully place the linear drain channel into its designated recess or onto the prepared base. Use a spirit level to ensure the channel is perfectly level along its length and across its width, unless manufacturer instructions specify otherwise for a particular model.
Fix the drain channel firmly to the subfloor or mortar bed. Methods vary: some drains are embedded in thinset mortar or a specified adhesive; others may require mechanical fasteners (rust-proof screws). Ensure full, continuous support beneath the channel, especially for longer drains, to prevent sagging.
Set the drain channel's height precisely. Consider the combined thickness of the waterproofing, thinset mortar, tile, and the desired final relationship between the tile surface and the drain grate (e.g., grate flush, or tile slightly above channel edge, per drain instructions). Some systems provide height adjustment shims or supports.
6. Tile the Shower Area
Proper tiling ensures both aesthetics and functionality.
Generally, start tiling the shower floor from the linear drain, working outwards towards the walls. This prioritizes a clean tile layout and well-executed cuts around the drain.
Use a wet saw for accurate cuts where tiles meet the drain channel or grate. For tile-insert grates, meticulously cut the tile for the grate to ensure pattern continuity and easy removal.
Maintain Correct Tile Height at Drain Edge
Follow the drain manufacturer's specification for the finished tile height relative to the drain channel edge or grate. This detail (e.g., tile 1/16 inch above channel edge for some systems) is important for proper water flow into the drain.
Consider Wall Tile Installation
Install wall tiles after the shower base/floor tiling is complete (or to a point allowing proper overlap with floor waterproofing/tile). Ensure the first course of wall tiles aligns correctly and maintains any required waterproofing overlaps.
7. Grout and Seal Shower Joints
The final steps to protect the tile installation and complete the look.
Once tile adhesive has fully cured, apply grout to fill all tile joints. Use a rubber float to pack grout firmly and remove excess from tile surfaces. After initial set (per grout instructions), clean off remaining grout haze with a damp sponge.
For showers, consider using high-performance grouts like epoxy or advanced cementitious grouts for better stain and mold resistance. Confirm compatibility with your chosen tiles.
Apply 100% silicone sealant at all changes of plane (floor-to-wall, wall-to-wall corners) and around the perimeter of the linear drain where it meets the tile. These joints require flexibility that rigid grout cannot provide.
Finishing Up and Important Manufacturer Notes
With the core installation complete, these final actions ensure proper function. Understanding that linear drain systems vary by manufacturer is also important for optimal results.
Install Drain Grate or Cover
Carefully place the chosen drain grate or tile-insert cover into the linear drain channel. It should sit securely, level, and at the correct height relative to the surrounding tile, following the drain manufacturer's specifications. For grates cut on-site, a small gap (e.g., 1/8 inch) between the grate ends and channel walls can ease removal for cleaning.
Perform Final Drainage Check
Turn on the shower to its maximum flow. Watch as water enters the drain. Confirm that it drains quickly and completely, with no water pooling on the shower floor or around the drain. The grate should remain stable and not obstruct water flow.
Understanding Variations in Linear Drain Installation
While general installation principles are similar, specific product designs influence the exact steps. Always consult and prioritize the detailed guide from your chosen linear drain's manufacturer. Key system characteristics to be aware of include:
- Systems with integrated waterproofing collars, such as certain Schluter KERDI-LINE models, feature a pre-attached collar designed for a direct, secure bond with a compatible sheet membrane using a specified adhesive. This promotes a highly reliable seal.
- Site-sizable channels, like some Infinity Drain PVC options, allow on-site cutting for a precise fit. This involves careful measurement and solvent welding of components. These often pair with clamp-down drain bodies where the waterproofing membrane is secured under a clamping ring; ensuring weep holes remain clear is vital here.
- Awisdom Tile Accessories linear drains are designed with features to aid the professional tiler. For example, many Awisdom models incorporate a reinforced, wide flange with a specially textured surface to enhance the bond with various liquid-applied or sheet waterproofing membranes. Additionally, integrated height adjustment spacers and clearly marked leveling indicators on the drain body can assist in achieving a precise, level installation flush with the finished tile surface, streamlining the setup process.
Reminder: Always Follow the Full Manufacturer Installation Guide for Any Chosen System
This general guidance is a supplement, not a replacement, for the manufacturer's specific instructions. Product designs vary, and adherence to their unique requirements is necessary for warranty coverage and optimal performance.
Common Installation Issues and Drain Care
Addressing potential problems early and performing routine maintenance will ensure the linear drain system functions well for years.
Avoiding Top Installation Mistakes
Preventing these common errors is key to a successful outcome:
- An incorrect or inconsistent floor slope (minimum 1/4 inch per foot towards the drain) will cause water pooling. Verify slope carefully before and after the mortar bed cures.
- Any compromise in the waterproofing seal, particularly at seams, corners, or the drain flange connection, can lead to leaks. A passed flood test before tiling is essential.
- An unlevel or unstable linear drain channel can result in poor drainage, broken seals, or cracked tiles. Ensure it is perfectly level (unless specified otherwise) and solidly anchored.
Maintaining Your Linear Drain
Simple, regular attention keeps the drain performing at its best:
- Periodically (weekly or monthly, based on use) lift out the drain grate. Clean away any trapped hair, soap residue, or debris from both the channel and the grate using a soft brush or cloth.
- If your drain design allows, using a compatible hair catcher can significantly reduce clogs. Regularly flushing the drain with hot water after showers may also help minimize buildup. Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners to protect drain finishes and waterproofing components.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do linear drains require a specific type of tile?
A: No, linear drains are versatile. They work well with various tile sizes, including large format tiles, because the single-direction slope they require simplifies tile layout compared to traditional center drains.
Q: How wide should a linear drain be for my shower?
A: The width is often an aesthetic choice, but ensure the drain's length and flow rate capacity are adequate for your shower's size and water output from all fixtures. Manufacturer guidelines provide specific capacity information.
Q: Can I install a linear drain on a concrete slab myself if I'm an experienced tiler?
A: Yes, experienced tilers can install linear drains on concrete slabs. Key steps involve proper subfloor preparation, creating the correct slope within a mortar bed, and meticulous waterproofing integration with the drain. Always follow drain manufacturer and local code requirements.
Q: Is it harder to clean a linear drain than a point drain?
A: Linear drains may collect more hair or debris along their length. However, most are designed for easy grate removal, making routine cleaning of the channel straightforward. Regular, simple cleaning prevents significant buildup.
Q: What happens if my shower floor slope isn't quite 1/4 inch per foot?
A: A consistent slope is important. Significantly less slope can lead to water pooling and poor drainage. Slightly more slope is generally acceptable, but an inconsistent or incorrect slope is a primary cause of shower drainage issues.
