Linear Drain vs Center Drain: Pros and Cons for Showers

Linear Drain vs Center Drain: Pros and Cons for Showers

The shower drain might not be the first thing you think about when planning a bathroom remodel, but it has a significant impact on your shower's appearance, tile options, and long-term performance. The two main options are linear (channel) drains and traditional center drains.

Here's a detailed comparison to help Raleigh-Durham homeowners make an informed choice.

How Center Drains Work

Traditional Four-Way Slope

A center drain sits in the middle (or near the center) of the shower floor. The floor must slope toward the drain from all four directions, creating a gentle pyramid-like surface with the drain at the lowest point.

This four-way slope has been the standard in shower construction for decades. It works reliably when installed correctly with proper slope and waterproofing.

Tile Limitations

The four-way slope creates a challenge for tile installers. Large-format floor tiles (anything bigger than about 4x4 inches) don't conform well to a four-way slope because the tile is flat and rigid. This is why most center-drain showers use small mosaic tiles on the floor.

Small mosaic tiles follow the contour of the four-way slope more easily because each individual tile is small enough to adjust slightly. This is functionally effective but limits your design options.

How Linear Drains Work

Single-Direction Slope

A linear drain (also called a channel drain or trench drain) is a narrow, elongated drain that typically runs along one wall of the shower. The floor slopes in a single direction toward the drain, rather than the four-way slope required by a center drain.

This single-direction slope is simpler to construct and allows for larger tile sizes on the shower floor because the tiles only need to follow one plane of slope.

Installation Location

Linear drains are typically installed against the wall furthest from the shower entrance. This positions the drain where water naturally flows and keeps the drain away from the primary standing area.

Some designs place the linear drain at the shower entrance, which is common in curbless (zero-threshold) showers where the drain acts as a water barrier between the shower and the rest of the bathroom.

Pros and Cons Comparison

Center Drain Pros

• •Lower cost: Center drains and their installation are typically less expensive
• •Proven reliability: Decades of use have refined installation techniques
• •Easier replacement: Standard sizes make future replacement straightforward
• •Works with any shower size: No minimum shower width required

Center Drain Cons

• •Limits floor tile size: Four-way slope requires small mosaic tiles
• •Visible drain in center of floor: The drain is a visible interruption in the floor design
• •More complex slope: Four-way slope requires more skill to construct properly
• •Standing on the drain: The drain is typically right where you stand

Linear Drain Pros

• •Allows large floor tiles: Single-direction slope accommodates larger tile formats
• •Cleaner aesthetic: The drain is at the edge, not the center of the floor
• •Better for curbless showers: Ideal for zero-threshold accessibility designs
• •Higher flow capacity: Linear drains typically handle more water volume per minute
• •Modern appearance: Sleek, contemporary look that elevates the design

Linear Drain Cons

• •Higher cost: The drain itself costs more and installation is more involved
• •Requires proper shower width: Most linear drains need a minimum shower width of 32 inches
• •Longer drain channel to clean: More surface area to maintain than a round drain cover
• •Specific waterproofing requirements: Requires compatible waterproofing system and careful integration

Cost Comparison

Center Drain Costs

• •Drain assembly: $30 to $100
• •Installation labor: Included in standard shower floor construction
• •Total additional cost: Minimal, as it's the default option

Linear Drain Costs

• •Drain assembly: $150 to $500+ depending on length, material, and finish
• •Decorative cover/grate: $50 to $200 (stainless steel, tile-insert, or brushed nickel options)
• •Additional labor: $200 to $500 for the specialized installation
• •Total additional cost: $400 to $1,200 over a center drain

Which Is Right for Your Shower?

Choose a Center Drain If:

• •Budget is a primary concern
• •You prefer small mosaic tile on the shower floor anyway
• •You're working with a standard shower size and layout
• •You want tried-and-true simplicity

Choose a Linear Drain If:

• •You want large-format tile on the shower floor
• •You're building a curbless or accessible shower
• •Modern aesthetics are a priority
• •You want the drain tucked away at the wall rather than underfoot
• •You're investing in a premium shower design

Waterproofing Considerations

Regardless of drain type, proper waterproofing is critical. At Showerly, we use the Schluter KERDI system for both center and linear drain installations. For linear drains, we specifically use Schluter KERDI-LINE or KERDI-DRAIN components that integrate seamlessly with the KERDI membrane system.

Our Quality Gates process includes a waterproofing verification step (Gate 3) that confirms the drain-to-membrane connection is watertight before any tile is installed.

Drain Options in Showerly Packages

• •Essential ($6K): Standard center drain with quality drain assembly
• •Signature ($9K): Choice of center drain or linear drain upgrade
• •Masterpiece ($12K): Premium linear drain with decorative grate included

See our pricing for full package details. Schedule a consultation to discuss which drain option is best for your project, or call (984) 895-0101. View completed projects with both drain styles in our portfolio.