Why Off-the-Shelf Strip Drains Save Renovations From Delays

 

At Strip Grate Australia, we understand how frustrating it can be when a shower drain begins to fail. Whether you are dealing with slow drainage or unhygienic water pooling, these issues are often signs of outdated hardware or a failing under-tile waterproofing. We have designed our systems to provide a high-performance, long-term solution that integrates seamlessly into a leak-free shower base.

Renovation schedules rely on products being available exactly when they are needed. Unlike custom-made drains that can take weeks to manufacture, Strip Grate Australia’s off-the-shelf drainage systems are ready for immediate order and installation, keeping your project on track and ensuring a professional finish.
Available in a versatile range of sizes, styles, and finishes, our drains can be cut to size on-site, providing custom flexibility without the wait. This allows plumbers, tilers, and licensed waterproofers to maintain their schedules, reducing costly downtime and ensuring every installation remains AS 3500.2 compliant.

 

The Advantage

  • No custom manufacturing delays 
  • Available in a range of sizes and finishes 
  • Can be cut to size on-site 
  • Keeps plumbers, waterproofers, and tilers on schedule 
  • Easy-to-install system designed for efficient project delivery 

By choosing an off-the-shelf Strip Grate system, you can reduce downtime, avoid costly project delays, and keep your renovation moving forward with confidence.

 

Hidden Cost of Custom Shower Drains.

Custom shower drains can appear to offer the perfect fit for your bathroom, but the true cost often goes beyond the purchase price. One of the biggest hidden expenses is time. Custom-made drains typically require manufacturing lead times, which can delay plumbers, waterproofers, tilers, and builders, disrupting carefully planned renovation schedules.

Delays can quickly increase labour costs as trades are forced to reschedule work or return to site at a later date. If measurements change during construction, a custom drain may require modification or replacement, resulting in further expense and project setbacks.

There can also be limitations when it comes to future maintenance or replacement, particularly if the drain size or design is unique.

Off-the-shelf drainage systems, such as Strip Grate Australia’s range, eliminate many of these risks. Available in a variety of sizes and finishes and able to be cut to size on-site, they provide greater flexibility, reduce delays, and help keep your renovation running smoothly and on budget. 



The Solution: Adjustable, Off-the-Shelf Systems

Strip Grate Australia’s off-the-shelf drainage systems put control back in the hands of builders, plumbers, and tradespeople. With no lengthy custom manufacturing lead times, projects can move forward without unnecessary delays.

Our collection channels can be cut to size on-site, providing the flexibility to suit a wide range of applications and site conditions. For added versatility, the waste outlet can also be repositioned to accommodate specific plumbing requirements.

By combining flexibility, fast availability, and easy installation, Strip Grate systems help keep renovations on schedule while delivering a reliable, high-performance drainage solution.

Client testimonials:  

Brett Dempster: “Not waiting for a grate to be made means you can finish off the job and move on to the next one“. 

 

Ryan Tobin:  “The convenience of being able to custom cut the drain to suit any application is fantastic.”

 

How to Install Strip Drain Systems on Site: 

 

Strip Grate systems are engineered for a fast, straightforward installation process. Simply cut the collection channel to size, glue the end caps and spigot into place, and install the system. Our design is fully AS 3500.2 compliant and features a 20mm flange that integrates directly with your waterproofing system for superior leak protection.

Step 1: Connect the Plumbing

Securely connect the collection channel to your 80/100mm PVC outlet or 50mm PVC S-trap. Fix the channel firmly to the floor and ensure it is perfectly level.

Step 2: Screed and Waterproof

Create the required fall towards the collection channel so the screed finishes flush with the waterproofing flange. Install the temporary insert and apply the waterproofing over the 20mm collection channel flange.

Step 3: Tile with Precision

Cut and position the tiles so they finish at the inner edge of the flange without overhanging into the collection channel. Maintain an even 5mm gap around the grate.

Step 4: Adjust with Spacers

Once tiling is complete, select the appropriate spacers to align the grate perfectly flush with the finished tile surface. Secure the spacers in place and fit the grate.

The Result: A flush-finished, waterproofed drainage system designed to prevent water pooling, manage sub-tile moisture, and deliver long-term performance.

 


Shower Grate Installation

Why choose Strip Grate for your next project?

At Strip Grate Australia, we believe a shower grate should do more than just manage water—it should be the cornerstone of your bathroom’s waterproofing strategy. Our systems are engineered to be both aesthetically beautiful and effortlessly functional, combining sleek architectural styling with superior waterproofing and drainage performance. Designed by licensed waterproofers, our grates are built to withstand the harsh bathroom environment while delivering long-term reliability. From premium finishes and flush-finish installation to WaterMark certification and a 10-year warranty, every detail has been considered to create a product that not only looks exceptional but stands the test of time.

Why Builders, Architects & Homeowners Choose Strip Grate

Premium architectural finishes
Waterproofed into place before tiling
Manages both surface and sub-tile water
WaterMark certified and tested to Australian Standards
Easy-to-install system
Flush-finish design with adjustable spacers
Durable, long-lasting construction
Backed by a 10-year warranty
Beautiful by design. Engineered for performance. Built to last.

 

FAQS:

Q: Do I need to order a custom strip drain for my shower?

A: No. Strip Grate offers off-the-shelf drainage systems that can be easily cut to size on-site, eliminating the wait times and costs often associated with custom manufacturing.



Q: How do I ensure my shower grate sits flush with the tiles?

A: Strip Grate systems include precision spacers that allow the grate to be adjusted to perfectly match the finished tile height, helping prevent water pooling and ensuring a seamless finish.



Q: Does the strip grate connect to standard plumbing?

A: Yes. Our collection channel is designed to connect directly to a standard 50mm PVC S-trap and can also accommodate various plumbing configurations, providing a secure and leak-free installation.



Q: Can Strip Grates be cut to size on-site?

A: Yes. Our collection channels can be trimmed on-site to suit your project requirements, providing greater flexibility and helping avoid delays.



Q: Are Strip Grate systems waterproofed into place?

A: Yes. Our collection channels feature a 20mm waterproofing flange, allowing them to be integrated directly into the waterproofing system before tiling for superior leak protection.



Q: Are Strip Grate products certified?

A: Yes. Strip Grate systems are WaterMark certified, tested to Australian Standards, and backed by a comprehensive 10-year warranty.



 

About Strip Grate Australia

Strip Grate Australia designs innovative, easy-to-install linear shower grates and drainage systems that combine contemporary aesthetics with superior waterproofing performance. Engineered to be waterproofed into place before tiling, our systems help prevent leaks, water pooling, and long-term moisture damage while delivering a seamless architectural finish.

Trusted by builders, architects, plumbers, tilers, and homeowners, Strip Grate products are WaterMark certified, tested to Australian Standards, and backed by a comprehensive 10-year warranty—providing lasting reliability, performance, and peace of mind.