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Which side to have the waste in a shower?
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Lulu58
Posts: 320 Forumite


We have just purchased a 1700 x 800 shower tray with a waste which is located on a long side in the middle. The shower will be enclosed by three walls on a plinth as we have concrete floors and cannot sink the waste.
I would like the side with the waste to be against the wall, ie the opposite side of the shower to where you will enter it.
The bathroom fitter has said he would prefer it on the other side, ie the side where you enter the shower for easy access in case of leakages and so forth. We will be having a 'flipper' glass panel to protect against spray.
Other than practicality, are there are reasons why the waste on a shower would be located in one place rather than another?
I would like the side with the waste to be against the wall, ie the opposite side of the shower to where you will enter it.
The bathroom fitter has said he would prefer it on the other side, ie the side where you enter the shower for easy access in case of leakages and so forth. We will be having a 'flipper' glass panel to protect against spray.
Other than practicality, are there are reasons why the waste on a shower would be located in one place rather than another?
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Comments
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I agree with the plumber, have it nearest the edge you get in, for ease of access.Breast Cancer Now 100 miles October 2022 100 / 100miles
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The side you can actually get at it plus that's the side you are less likely to standI'm only here while I wait for Corrie to start.
You get no BS from me & if I think you are wrong I WILL tell you.0 -
Yes, another thumbs up for ease of accessPerfection takes time: don't expect miracles in a day0
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If putting it in a position you're not so keen on because of 'ease of access' then do double check your fitter will be installing the tray in a way that you can actually access the waste and trap if there are problems.
If it's all boxed-in without any access panels, so any repairs require cutting away plasterboard from the ceiling below to access it, then you may as well have it where you want it.0 -
I would like the side with the waste to be against the wall, ie the opposite side of the shower to where you will enter it.
Mine's like this - I fail to see what the problem is. There is no access under the shower tray so what difference does it make.For every complex problem there is an answer that is clear, simple and wrong.0 -
My shower cubicle, and the previous ones I have used all have the drain on the side nearest the door.
Makes it easier to unclog without having to get in.0 -
Another vote for the plumber, we have a large double shower and the waste trap is right in the corner by the door, makes it far easier for access to clean the trap which needs to be done regularly to prevent build up of hair and any gunge.0
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If it's all boxed-in without any access panels, so any repairs require cutting away plasterboard from the ceiling below to access it, then you may as well have it where you want it.
OP said: "The shower will be enclosed by three walls on a plinth as we have concrete floors and cannot sink the waste."
Yes, I agree with plumber and others here - have the waste right at the front as you get in. Also, make sure to have a removable panel along the plinth nearest the waste. If the tray is not porcelain or good stiff plastic, flexing over time could cause problems with connections underneath and you'll need to have access to them.0 -
I have that size shower, and fitted the waste by the door opposite from the wall. Reason was to make routing the pipework easier without the need for tight bends. If I ever need access, I'll have to come through from the ceiling below as the shower is flush to the floor.0
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Thanks to everyone for your replies. You've raised some useful points for me to discuss with the fitter such as access panel/s.0
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