Renovating a bathroom means working with the space you already have — existing floor height, existing plumbing, existing structure. That is exactly where most drainage problems start.
AERLO supplies shower drains and floor drains specifically specified for renovation projects: low-profile linear drains for limited floor build-up, tile-insert grates that blend into the new floor, and replacement point drains that fit existing pipework without re-piping the whole room.
What to Check Before Choosing a Drain
1. Available floor build-up
The single most common renovation constraint. Measure from the structural slab to the finished tile surface — if you have less than 60 mm, you need a low-profile or ultra-thin drain.
2. Existing pipe position and size
Horizontal outlet, vertical outlet, or offset? This decides which drain bodies will work without breaking the slab.
3. Waterproofing continuity
A new drain means a new waterproofing joint. Choose a drain with an integrated sealing flange so the membrane bonds directly to the drain body.
4. Layout and slope
Linear drains need only a single-plane slope, which makes them easier to install in existing rooms than centre point drains that require four-way falls.
5. Grate finish
For renovations, the grate is visible every day — brushed stainless steel and matte black are the two most specified finishes.
Recommended Products for Renovation Projects
| Application | Recommended Type | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Limited floor height | Low-profile linear drain (28–50 mm) | Fits without raising the floor |
| Keeping existing tile look | Tile-insert linear drain | Grate accepts the same tile, virtually invisible |
| Replacing an old point drain | Point drain with adjustable outlet | Reuses existing pipework |
| Small bathrooms | Compact linear drain (600–800 mm) | Single slope, easier falls |
Installation Notes for Renovations
- Always install the drain body before the waterproofing membrane, not after.
- Confirm the grate is level with the finished tile — not with the screed.
- Use a drain with a height-adjustable frame so minor tile thickness variance can be corrected on site.
- Protect the grate during tiling; stainless steel scratches easily before final cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size linear shower drain do I need?
- How to install a linear shower drain?
- Can a shower drain be installed on a wooden subfloor?
Planning a renovation project? Send us your floor build-up, pipe position and required length — we will match the right drain and quote it within 24 hours. Request a Quote