How To Measure Shower Drain Size: A Simple Guide

Ensuring proper drainage in your shower is crucial for preventing water damage and maintaining a hygienic bathroom. To achieve this, it’s essential to measure the shower drain size accurately. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step method to determine the correct drain size for your shower.

Materials You’ll Need

• Measuring tape or ruler
• Screwdriver or Allen wrench
• Flashlight (optional)

Measuring the Drain Opening

1. Remove the drain cover: Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to unscrew the drain cover. If the cover is difficult to remove, you may need to gently pry it up with a flathead screwdriver.

2. Measure the width of the opening: Using a measuring tape or ruler, measure the width of the drain opening at its widest point. This measurement will give you the diameter of the drain.

Measuring the Drain Body

1. Insert a flashlight (optional): If the drain body is not visible, insert a flashlight into the drain to illuminate the inside.

2. Locate the drain body: The drain body is the cylindrical part of the drain that connects to the drainpipe. It may be made of metal, plastic, or rubber.

3. Measure the diameter of the drain body: Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the diameter of the drain body at its widest point. This measurement will give you the size of the drain body.

Measuring the Flange

1. Locate the flange: The flange is the flat, circular part of the drain that sits on top of the shower floor. It may be made of metal or plastic.

2. Measure the diameter of the flange: Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the diameter of the flange at its widest point. This measurement will give you the size of the flange.

Determining the Drain Size

Once you have measured the drain opening, drain body, and flange, you can determine the correct drain size. The drain size is typically expressed as a diameter in inches.

• Standard drain size: The standard drain size for most showers is 2 inches.
• Large drain size: Some showers may require a larger drain, such as 3 inches, to handle heavy water flow.
• Custom drain size: In some cases, you may need a custom-sized drain to fit an unusual shower pan or drainpipe.

Choosing the Correct Drain

When choosing a shower drain, it’s important to select a drain that matches the measured size of your drain opening, drain body, and flange.

• Drain opening: The drain opening should be the same diameter as the drain body.
• Drain body: The drain body should be the same diameter as the flange.
• Flange: The flange should be slightly larger than the drain opening to provide a secure fit.

Tips for Accurate Measurements

• Use a measuring tape or ruler with clear markings for precise measurements.
• Ensure the measuring tape or ruler is straight when taking measurements.
• If the drain is clogged, clean it before measuring to ensure accurate results.
• If you are unsure about the measurements, consult with a professional plumber.

Recommendations: Ensuring Proper Drainage

Measuring the shower drain size correctly is essential for selecting the right drain and ensuring proper drainage. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your shower drains efficiently and effectively.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: What is the standard shower drain size?
A: The standard shower drain size is 2 inches in diameter.

Q: How can I measure the drain size if the drain cover is not removable?
A: You can insert a flashlight into the drain to illuminate the inside and take measurements from there.

Q: What should I do if the drain size is not a standard size?
A: In this case, you may need to purchase a custom-sized drain or consult with a professional plumber for assistance.