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Large-format tiles are a favourite in modern Australian bathrooms, creating a clean, spacious look with fewer grout lines. If you're planning a renovation, you might be wondering whether they work with a traditional centre shower drain.
The answer is yes, but there are a few important factors to consider.
The Challenge with a Centre Shower Drain
A traditional centre shower drain requires the shower floor to slope towards the drain from all directions. This four-way fall helps water drain efficiently, but it can make laying large-format tiles more challenging.
Because larger tiles don't easily follow multiple floor angles, they often need to be cut into smaller sections. This can result in:
- More tile cuts
- Extra grout lines
- A more complex installation
An experienced tiler can achieve an excellent result, but careful planning is essential.
Why Linear Drains Are Often Preferred
Many homeowners choose a linear shower drain when using large-format tiles because it typically requires only a single-direction floor fall.
This simpler layout allows tiles to be installed with fewer cuts, helping create a cleaner, more seamless finish—particularly in walk-in showers and contemporary bathroom designs.
Draintek Linear Shower Drains
If you're looking for a drainage solution that complements large-format tiles, Draintek offers a range of Australian-made linear shower drains manufactured from durable 316L marine-grade stainless steel.
Popular options include:
- Custom Shower Grate – Tile Insert – for a seamless tiled finish.
- Custom Shower Grate – Wedge Wire for a modern architectural look.
- Single Slot Tile Insert Shower Grate – for a minimalist appearance.
Every Draintek custom shower grate is made to order, with custom lengths, outlet positions and outlet sizes available to suit your project.
The Bottom Line
You can absolutely install large-format tiles with a centre shower drain, but the required floor fall often makes the installation more complex.
If your goal is a sleek, contemporary bathroom with minimal tile cuts, a Draintek linear shower drain is often the better choice. Its single-direction floor fall makes installation easier while delivering the clean, modern finish many Australian homeowners are looking for.