Upgrade your shower with SereneDrains™ linear shower drains, designed for modern bathrooms, curbless showers, and professional tile installations. This guide provides step-by-step instructions and expert tips to ensure proper installation, drainage performance, and long-term durability.
General Installation Tips
- Linear drains with stainless steel grates are typically installed along a wall, shower entry, or threshold. They can also be installed anywhere as long as a ¼" per foot slope is maintained.
- Always install waterproofing over a properly sloped base (¼" per foot), whether using a traditional mortar bed or surface-applied membrane.
- Use reinforcing fabric with liquid waterproofing membranes for any gaps larger than 1/8". This is especially important at the drain flange and wall-to-floor transitions.
- For curbless showers, position the drain parallel to the entry to maintain a smooth, level transition.
- When installing against a wall, set the flange directly against studs or sill plate. The center of the waste pipe should be approximately 2 1/4" from the wall.
- Account for thin-set, waterproofing, and tile thickness so the finished wall tile sits about 1/16" from the drain channel wall.
- Install floor tile approximately 1/16" from the grate edge for easy removal and maintenance.
Step-by-Step Installation

Step 1: Pre-slope the shower pan and install waterproofing according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Perform a leak test before proceeding.
Step 2: SereneDrains™ standard channel width is 2 3/4" (70mm). Ensure the rough opening is about 2" wider than the drain length to allow for backer board and tile thickness.
Step 3: Use a temporary 3" wide wood spacer cut to length as a placeholder. This creates an approximate 1/8" gap around the drain for flexible sealant.
Step 4: Build the mortar bed and install tile with a 1–2% slope toward the drain.
Step 5: (Tile Insert Models Only) Install tile into the drain’s insert tray.
Step 6: Remove the wood spacer, clean the cavity, and install the SereneDrains™ channel. Set it level and slightly below adjacent tile (about 1/16").
Drain Cover Options


Waterproofing Around the Drain

Proper waterproofing around the drain flange is critical to prevent leaks and ensure long-term performance. Always follow membrane manufacturer guidelines and reinforce all transitions and seams.
Why Choose SereneDrains™?
- Premium stainless steel construction
- Modern, low-profile design
- Ideal for curbless and ADA showers
- Easy maintenance and removable grate
- Compatible with all standard waterproofing systems
Shop SereneDrains™ Now:
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