Browse through our large selection of cultured marble shower pans, and you’ll notice a variety of drain locations available. How do you know which is best for your commercial project? We explore the different types of drain locations, so you can make the best decision for your showers, whether it's for a multifamily renovation or a new senior living facility.
The existing plumbing largely determines drain location, especially in projects like hotel renovations. In new construction, you probably have more flexibility. For renovations, be sure to check out our renovation pans for tub to shower conversions. Learn more about these and other shower pans in our guide.
A shower pan's size, shape, and drain location should satisfy the needs of the property and its residents. Let’s review the basic drain locations you’ll need to consider.
Trench drains
Trench drains, or linear drains, are particularly well-suited for larger shower areas. Placed alongside the wall or entrance, they feature an elongated channel that provides a continuous draining surface. The shower pan itself slopes in only one direction, towards the drain.
These drains offer commercial properties a sleek, modern, and low-maintenance shower. Not only do they look beautiful, but their placement away from the standing area creates a more pleasant showering experience. No more standing on dirty drains! They’re also easy to clean - simply lift up the cover for access.
The downside? Linear drains are typically more expensive than standard circular drains. However, their innovative benefits make them an excellent choice for properties like hotels looking to stand out. Plus, they're easy to clean!
Center drains
Circular drains are typically the most cost-effective and versatile type of drain. Center drains are compatible with most standard showers - even oddly shaped ones – so you’ll find them almost anywhere. In this design, the shower pan slopes from all directions down to the center of the pan.
The biggest problem with these drains - they're right in the middle of the pan. Guests or residents stand over it (and on it) while showering. To give guests a more luxurious experience, consider designing a shower with a linear, corner, or offset drain.
Corner and offset drains
Although less common, these drain locations are visually appealing and highly functional. Offset and corner (circular) drains are not the center of attention, giving the shower a cleaner, more minimalistic look.
More importantly, guests and residents don’t have to stand on the drain while showering. Because they’re ‘out of the way,’ these drains create a safer and more comfortable experience. They can also be used when obstructions in the existing infrastructure (like during a renovation or adaptive reuse) prevent the installation of a traditional center or linear drain.
When specifying Mincey pans with circular offset drains, you'll notice a measurement in the product name (i.e., 36 x 60 Pan - 10" Offset Drain). This denotes the distance from the wall to the center of the drain.
Drain covers
Mincey provides solid and decorative covers for our trench drain pans. These durable products are crafted from quality stainless steel. You can also choose from several powder coated finishes. These colors blend in with the pan - a great solution if you're coordinating metal finishes in the bathroom or shower.
Regardless of your choice, make sure your decision aligns with the needs of your property and its occupants. For elevated design and easy maintenance, linear drains are an ideal option for hotels wanting to impress guests. Corner and offset drains can be more cost-effective yet still provide a pleasant user experience.
Mincey offers over 60 cast marble shower pan options; however, we know each project is unique. If your project needs a special size or specific drain location, we can meet your requirements.
Recommended drains
Mincey doesn't supply drains or circular drain covers, but we recommend using the below drains with our shower pans:
- Sioux Chief Mfg. model: 825-2P – PVC
- Oatey part number: 42045 – PVC
- Oatey part number: 42150 – Brass
