Which Shower Drain Cover is Right For Your Bathroom?
A shower drain cover may seem insignificant, but it plays a critical role in preventing clogs and damage to your plumbing system. With so many options available, from basic screw-in covers to more decorative cast metal designs, choosing the right cover for your shower can get confusing.
Anatomy of a Shower Drain
Before diving into specifics on covers, it helps to understand what's under your shower floor:
- The drain pipe carries wastewater from the shower to the main plumbing lines.
- A p-trap holds water after use, preventing sewer gases from entering the home.
- The drain opening has threads or clips to secure a drain cover.
It's critical to keep hair, debris, and other gunk out of shower drains to allow proper water flow. Clogs can cause water to back up into the shower floor, leading to extensive repairs.
Choosing the Right Size
Shower drain covers come in a range of standard sizes from 3 to 5 inches in diameter. Measure across your drain opening, factoring in any adjusting rings or trim kits. Custom sizing is also available, but can get pricey.
Types of Shower Drain Covers
Now that we understand what lies beneath, let's explore popular options to top it off!
Screw-In Covers
The most common type, screw-in drain covers feature holes and slots that allow water to pass through while catching debris. As the name suggests, they simply screw into place to secure them over the drain.
Pros: Simple and affordable. Easy to remove for cleaning.
Cons: Less decorative. Can come loose over time.
Best For: Basic water and hair catchment; easy cleaning access.
Snap-In Covers
Snap-in drain covers secure over the drain opening using built-in clips or prongs to snap into place. No tools needed for installation.
Pros: Fast and tool-free install. Convenient to remove.
Cons: Not as durable as screw-in. Limited style selection.
Best For: Low profile; easy maintenance.
Replacement Strainers
Replacement drain strainers secure over existing shower drain openings. Available in 3 common sizes - 3 1/4", 4", and 5 1/8" - to retrofit old drains.
Pros: Fit various drain diameters. Low-profile design.
Cons: Limited aesthetic options. Must properly measure size.
Best For: Replacing outdated or damaged strainers; easy swap.
Decorative & Heavy Duty Covers
For a high-end look, cast metal covers feature unique shapes and designs. Popular finishes include polished brass, antique brass, or cast nickel.
Pros: Intricate styles and patterns. Durable, heavy-duty builds.
Cons: Typically the most expensive option. Show scratches over time.
Best For: Design-forward bathroom aesthetics.
Aesthetic Considerations
Beyond core functionality, shower drain covers must also coordinate with other bathroom elements like faucets, tile, cabinets, etc.
Materials & Finishes
Consider both the material (stainless, brass, glass) and surface finish (polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze). Finishes should tie together fixtures while materials influence factors like pricing and durability.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Frequent cleaning and exposure to moisture can impact covers over time. Prioritize non-porous, scratch-resistant, tarnish-proof materials suited to the wet environment.
Ease of Installation
Installation is another factor affecting your time, tools, and potential costs if hiring a pro. From DIY-friendly to more complex:
- Screw & Snap-In: Easy DIY install; no expertise needed.
- Strainers & Cast Covers: Intermediate DIY skills needed.
- Adjustable/Custom: Often requires a plumber for proper fit.
If attempting a DIY cover install, carefully review included instructions. Ensure you have propermeasurements and any necessary parts or tools before starting.
Preventing and Clearing Clogs
While the right cover traps gunk before it enters pipes, additional products can further eliminate clogs:
Hair Catchers
Hair catchers act as secondary strainers to grab strands before they go down the drain. Models sit across drain tops or inside pipes.
Drain Augers/Snakes
A drain snake feeds a long, flexible cable down the pipes to hook and pull up built-up debris. Best for serious DIYers.
Chemical Drain Cleaners
Liquid drain cleaners break up minor blockages; simply pour down the shower drain as needed. Use caution with harsh chemical cleaners.
Shower Drain Maintenance
With routine care, shower drains can keep flowing freely for years:
- Remove drain covers and catchers to clean hair/debris weekly.
- Check covers for cracks/damage; replace loose or worn out covers.
- Use drain cleaners regularly to clear soap scum or buildup.
Following the manufacturer's instructions for your specific shower drain cover will ensure optimal performance.
Protecting your shower drain with the proper cover keeps plumbing and drains working properly while adding style to your bathroom. Consider key factors like size/dimensions, ease of cleaning, durability, aesthetics, and installation method as you shop options.
Prioritizing functionality first, then the desired look will lead you to the best fit. And with some basic maintenance habits, your new shower drain cover will stand the test of time.