36 Inch Tile Insert Linear Shower Drain – Seamless Backwall Install

36 Inch Tile Insert Linear Shower Drain – Seamless Backwall Install

Backwall Return Flange Only | Drains Unlimited DUFR-TN Series

Get a seamless, flush-to-wall shower floor with no visible tile strip at the wall junction. The DUFR-TN wall-mounted linear drain installs tight against the back wall, closing the gap that standard linear drains leave behind, so there's no need to custom-float an extra strip of tile to match the floor. Suitable for both commercial and residential interior applications, including luxury shower remodels, wet rooms, spas, and hotels, where a seamless look matters.

Why Choose a Flush-to-Wall Linear Drain

Traditional linear shower drains can't install completely flush with the back wall – they sit a few inches off it, leaving a narrow strip of tile that has to be custom-cut, bonded, or floated separately. This is a common source of both aesthetic compromise and waterproofing challenges in a shower. The DUFR-TN Series solves this with a wall-mounted, stud-secured design that installs flush against the wall for a clean, seamless look.

Backwall Return Flange vs Three-Side Flange – Which One Do You Need?

The DUFR Series is available in two flange configurations:

1. Backwall Return Flange Only – installs directly against the back wall without return flanges on the ends. The drain runs along the back wall but does not need to extend from one side wall to the other, making it ideal for curbed or curbless showers where the drain is positioned against the back wall with open space at the ends. For 1/8" to 3/8" thick wall tiles.
2. Three-Side Return Flange – seals against the back wall and both side walls. Ideal for wall-to-wall installations where the drain spans the full width of the shower, fully enclosed on three sides. For 1/8" to 3/8" thick wall tiles.

Technical Specifications

• 14-gauge AISI 304 stainless steel, rust-resistant and electro-passivated
• No-hub coupling installation, 2-3/8" (outside diameter) outlet
• 2-1/2" wide grate cover with a V-shaped bottom

Applications

• Commercial and residential use
• Interior use only
• Perfect for showers, bathtubs, kitchens, hotel rooms, spas

Performance

• Single slope to drain, high flow rate performance
• Shallow V-bottom design for better water flow to the drain outlet
• SANS10400 compliant 75mm water seal
• Excellent corrosion resistance, passivated finish
• Hygienic, barrier-free design
• Accommodates standard size tile format
• Removable grate for easy cleaning and maintenance

Installation

• Must be secured to the stud (wall framing)
• Installs flush with the wall(s) for a clean, seamless finish
• Full length measured between the finish faces of the framing (stud to stud)
• Textured bonding flange for a tight waterproof membrane seal to the drain body
• Compatible with major waterproofing systems, including Blanke Aqua-Shield, Laticrete, Mapei, and Schluter
• Suitable substrates: concrete, exterior glue, plywood (interior use only), cement backer board, cement mortar bed, pre-sloped foam shower pans

Available Sizes

30", 32", 34", 36", 40", 42", 44", 48", 54", 60", 66", 72"
(Drains measured at the outer edge of the flange. Visible grate is approximately 2" shorter than total drain length.)

What's Included

Drain body, grate, two strainers, grate hook

Grate Options

Available as Tile-In Grate (to match floor tile) or as a metal grate in Wedge Wire or Square Perforated design, with additional standard sizes and finishes. Custom sizes available.

FAQ

1. How do I get rid of the tile strip next to my shower drain?
That gap exists because standard linear drains sit a few inches off the back wall, leaving a strip of tile that has to be cut and floated separately to match the floor. A flush-to-wall linear drain, like the DUFR Series, is stud-mounted and installs directly against the back wall, removing that extra strip entirely.

2. Can a linear drain be installed flush against the wall?
Yes – this requires a wall-mounted linear drain design that's secured to the stud (wall framing) rather than sitting away from it. The drain length is measured stud to stud so it fits the exact wall-to-wall or backwall opening.

3. How do I choose the right size linear shower drain?
Measure your rough opening between the studs (finish face of framing), not the finished tile opening. The visible grate will be about 2" shorter than the total drain length you order.

4. Will this drain work with my shower waterproofing membrane (Schluter, Laticrete, etc.)?
Yes – it's designed to be compatible with major waterproofing systems, including Blanke Aqua-Shield, Laticrete, Mapei, and Schluter.

5. My shower is a non-standard size. Can I get a custom linear drain?
Yes. If your measurement falls outside the standard sizes, request a custom dimension using the "Request Custom Size" option. Custom configurations are also available, including side outlet, horizontal side outlet, and 316-grade stainless steel. Contact us for more information.

Drains Unlimited is a manufacturer of high-quality shower drains for a variety of shower applications.

Explore More Linear Drain Options

Need a different size or design? Browse our full range of wall-mounted linear shower drains.

The standard Linear Drains are available in a variety of sizes, styles, and finishes to match any shower size and design. Shop our full selection of linear floor drains.

Wall-Recessed Linear Drains

For a contemporary, upscale shower design, the one-of-a-kind wall-recessed linear drains offer a more concealed drain installation, making them a strong choice for luxury shower construction. Browse wall-recessed linear drains.