How to choose the right linear shower grate

Measure the full width of your shower recess where the drain will sit, since a linear grate typically spans wall to wall for a clean, seamless line. Choose between a centre-cut grate, which has a pre-formed channel for tiles to fall into on both sides, and a no-cut DIY grate, which is left flat for your tiler to customise on site — the DIY option gives more flexibility if your tiling layout or fall direction is non-standard.

Linear grates rely on the surrounding floor being tiled with a fall toward the drain, so this needs to be planned with your tiler or waterproofer before the screed goes down, not decided after. They're a popular choice for barrier-free walk-in showers and frameless glass screens because the slim profile keeps the floor visually uninterrupted, and most grates have a removable cover that lifts out for periodic cleaning of the channel below.