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Choosing the right linear drain is an important step when designing a shower. While style often gets the most attention, selecting the correct drain length helps ensure efficient water drainage, a cleaner installation, and a balanced overall appearance.
If you have a 100cm shower, the good news is that there isn't just one "correct" drain size. The ideal choice depends on your shower layout, tile design, and where the drain will be installed.
Does the Drain Need to Be 100cm Long?
Not necessarily.
A common misconception is that a linear shower drain should match the exact width of the shower. In reality, the drain is usually slightly shorter than the shower opening, allowing room for wall finishes, waterproofing, and installation tolerances.
For a 1000mm shower, many homeowners choose a custom drain between 800mm and 900mm, depending on the bathroom design and drain location.
A custom-made drain can also be manufactured to suit your exact dimensions if your project requires a precise fit.
Factors That Influence Drain Size
Choosing the right linear shower drain involves more than measuring the shower width.
Drain Position
Where the drain is installed affects the recommended length.
- Against the rear wall: A longer drain creates a clean, continuous look.
- At the shower entrance: A drain spanning most of the opening helps capture water before it leaves the shower.
- Along one side: The ideal length depends on the shower layout and floor fall.
Shower Design
Walk-in showers often benefit from longer linear drains, as they collect water across a wider area and complement the open design.
For enclosed showers, a slightly shorter drain may provide the same performance while offering greater installation flexibility.
Tile Size
Large-format tiles pair exceptionally well with linear drains because the floor generally requires only a single-direction fall.
Selecting a drain that suits your tile layout can minimise unnecessary tile cuts and help create a more seamless finish.
Why Choose a Custom Linear Drain?
Every bathroom is different, which is why custom drainage solutions are becoming increasingly popular.
Rather than adjusting your bathroom design to fit a standard drain, a custom-made linear drain is manufactured to suit your project.
Draintek offers custom Australian-made linear shower drains with configurable:
- Drain lengths
- Outlet positions
- Outlet sizes
- Wedge wire or tile insert grate styles
This allows builders, designers, and homeowners to achieve both optimal drainage performance and a premium finish.
Popular Draintek Linear Drain Options
Whether you're creating a contemporary ensuite or renovating a family bathroom, Draintek offers several premium drainage solutions.
Custom Shower Grate – Tile Insert
A popular choice for minimalist bathrooms, this tile insert drain allows your floor tile to sit inside the grate, creating a seamless appearance that's ideal for walk-in showers.
Custom Shower Grate – Wedge Wire
If you prefer your drainage to become a design feature, the wedge wire grate delivers a clean architectural finish while maintaining exceptional water flow.
Single Slot Tile Insert Shower Grate
Designed for homeowners seeking an ultra-discreet drainage solution, this slim-profile drain blends effortlessly into modern tiled bathrooms.
Why Draintek?
Draintek manufactures premium linear shower drains using marine-grade 316L stainless steel, delivering outstanding durability and corrosion resistance for Australian conditions.
Every custom shower grate is:
- Australian made
- WaterMark certified
- Manufactured to your required dimensions
- Suitable for residential and commercial projects
- Backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects
Choosing the Right Size for Your Shower
For a 100cm shower, there isn't a universal drain length that suits every project. The best size depends on your bathroom layout, drain position, and overall design.
If you're looking for the most accurate fit, a custom-made linear drain provides the flexibility to match your shower perfectly while delivering reliable drainage and a clean, modern finish.
Explore Draintek's range of custom linear shower drains to find the ideal solution for your next bathroom renovation or new build.