What is a shower drain supposed to look like?

A properly functioning shower drain is a critical component of any bathroom. It serves the vital purpose of allowing water to exit the shower enclosure and enter the home’s drainage system. However, over time a shower drain can become clogged with hair, soap residue, and other debris. This can lead to standing water in the shower, slow drainage, and water damage if left unresolved. Knowing what a clean, working shower drain looks like is key to identifying potential problems early and performing regular maintenance.

Typical Shower Drain Components

A basic shower drain consists of several parts that work together to let water flow through while keeping debris out. These include:

• Drain cover – The visible, removable plate with small holes or slots that water can pass through. Covers are typically round or square and made of metal, plastic, or porcelain.
• Drain pipe – The vertical pipe that is installed below the shower floor and connects to the property’s main drainage pipes.
• Drain body – The fitting at the top of the drain pipe that supports the cover. Usually made of metal or plastic.
• Drain basket/strainer – A removable, perforated strainer basket that sits inside the drain body to catch hair and debris.
• Trap – An S-shaped curve in the drain pipe that holds water to prevent sewer gases from entering the shower.

These components thread together to direct water from the shower into the drainage system. The cover, drain basket, and trap also work to keep the inner workings clear of clogs.

Signs of a Properly Working Shower Drain

When a shower drain is working correctly, it will have the following characteristics:

• Water flows through freely – All water is able to drain in under a minute once the shower is turned off. There is no standing water or slow vortex formation.
• No debris – When removing the drain cover and basket, there is minimal to no accumulated hair, soap scum, or other debris inside the drain body or basket.
• No unpleasant odors – A functioning P-trap will prevent sewer gases from entering the shower enclosure space.
• Cover sits flush – The drain cover properly aligns with the shower floor and does not rock or wiggle when stepped on.
• No leaks – Water stays inside the drain pipe with no leaks at joints or connections.
• No evidence of rust/corrosion – Metal components do not show significant rusting or mineral deposits that could indicate damage.

If all of these conditions are met, it is a sign that the shower drain is in good working order and able to effectively carry out its job.

Signs of a Clogged or Damaged Shower Drain

On the other hand, several issues can indicate that a shower drain needs attention or replacement:

• Standing water – When water takes longer than 60 seconds to fully drain after a shower, it could mean there is a clog.
• Gurgling sounds – Drainage making gurgling noises points to a partially blocked pipe.
• Foul odors – Sewer smells coming from the drain often mean the P-trap is dry or cracked.
• Loose cover – A drain cover that rocks or detaches easily indicates damage to the body or connections.
• Visible corrosion – Rust, mineral deposits, and pitting on metal components signals deterioration.
• Sinkhole around drain – Water leakage eroding away flooring or tile grout near the drain.
• Slow water flow in other drains – Clogs that cause backup can affect other nearby drains.
• Visible debris – Hair, sludge, or soap scum present inside drain body or basket.

These issues mean the shower drain is not functioning optimally. The clog or damage will only get worse over time if left unaddressed. Catching problems early makes clearing blockages or replacing parts easier.

How to Keep Shower Drains Working Properly

Routine maintenance helps prevent many shower drain problems from occurring. Recommended tasks include:

• Remove hair and debris – Regularly clear out hair and soap residue from drain basket and body. Use a zip-it tool to pull out large clumps.
• Flush with hot water – Pour kettle-heated water down the drain weekly to melt grease and clear soap scum.
• Use drain cleaner – Apply a drain cleaner/unclogger monthly to break up organic matter and dissolve buildup.
• Check for cracks – Inspect drain pipes and joints yearly for any cracks that could lead to leaks.
• Test for flow – Ensure water drains freely after showers by timing how long a bucket of water takes to empty.
• Replace worn parts – If pieces show corrosion, cracks, or missing parts, have them replaced.

Carrying out these simple maintenance steps helps remove debris before it can turn into a problematic clog. Catching leaks early also prevents water damage.

Know When to Call a Professional

In some cases, shower drain issues may require a plumbing professional. It is smart to call for assistance if you observe:

• Complete clogging that does not clear with a drain snake or unclogger.
• Leaking water at connections or the shower pan.
• Visible cracks or damage in the drain or pipe.
• Corroded or stripped drain parts that need replacement.
• Persistent foul odors coming from the drain.
• Sinkholes or deterioration in the shower floor around the drain.
• Backed up water affecting other nearby drains.

A plumber has specialized tools and expertise to thoroughly clear tough clogs, repair fixture damage, replace worn parts, and address issues inside building drainage pipes. They can ensure all components are working properly again.

Types of Shower Drains

There are several types of shower drains available, each with distinct characteristics and best use cases:

Standard Screw-In Drain

• Most basic and affordable option
• Drain cover screws into threaded drain body
• Typically made of chrome-plated plastic or metal
• Best for simple shower installations

Pop-Up Drain Stopper

• Lower stopper seals closed to allow shower pan to fill for baths
• Linkage raises stopper when shower is turned on
• Helpful for tub/shower combo units
• More complex with more parts to maintain

Tile Insert Drain

• Drain cover designed to fit flush with tile shower floor
• Low profile for minimal appearance
• Matches drain look to flooring
• Pricier option

Trench Drain

• Long drain channel installed linearly under shower head
• Collects water across larger area
• Prevents water pooling
• Useful for larger, custom showers

Heavy Duty/Commercial Drain

• All metal parts for maximum durability
• Handles high volume water flow
• Often has vandal-proof cover screws
• Made for public facilities and pro use

The drain type chosen depends on shower design, flooring, and projected usage. A contractor can recommend the best style for a given application.

Removing and Replacing a Damaged Shower Drain

If a shower drain becomes too clogged or components are severely corroded, a full replacement may be necessary. This process involves:

1. Turning off water supply valves and emptying pipes.
2. Removing drain cover screws and lifting out basket and body.
3. Detaching drain pipe from shower pan and clearing remaining debris.
4. Disconnecting pipe from below floor plumbing.
5. Measuring and cutting PVC pipe for new drain to proper height.
6. Cleaning shower pan surface and applying plumber’s putty.
7. Lowering new drain into place and making connections.
8. Replacing drain basket mechanism, cover, and any seals.
9. Checking for leaks after turning water back on.

A licensed plumber has the expertise to properly remove old shower drains and retrofit new replacement parts. This ensures new drain components interface correctly with existing plumbing infrastructure.

Conclusion

Knowing how a properly functioning shower drain should look and act makes it easier to monitor its condition. Signs of damage or clogging should be addressed right away before greater problems arise. With regular maintenance and timely repairs when needed, shower drains can work optimally for years before replacement is required. Paying attention to the small details helps ensure adequate drainage and prevent leaks or backups.