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Shower Drain Rough-In: How Far the Drain Sits From the Back Wall and Side Wall

▶Glossary8
  1. Where the Rough-In Dimensions Come from
  2. Left, Right and Center Drains Are Different Numbers
  3. How to Compare the Drawing with Your Existing Drain
  4. If Your Existing Drain Does Not Line Up
  5. Related Guides
  6. Related Videos
  7. Common Questions
  8. Still Need Help?

The drain rough-in for every Ella shower base is shown on the Specification drawing for that model, as the distance from the back wall and from the side wall to the center of the drain. Those distances change from model to model and with the drain position, so there is no single figure that fits every base. As two examples, one right-drain base lists the drain center 15 1/2 inches from the back wall and 9 1/2 inches from the front, while one center-drain base places it 19 inches from the back wall and 24 inches from the side wall. Pull the drawing for your exact model and drain position and compare it with your existing drain line before you order.

Where the Rough-In Dimensions Come from

Every Ella shower base has a dimensioned Specification drawing. It shows the outside dimensions of the base, the threshold, and the drain location measured to the center of the drain opening from the edges of the base. The drawing is the authoritative source, and it is the document the support team reads from when a customer asks for a drain measurement. This article explains how to get the spec sheet and installation guide for your shower, and shower bases and wall panels gives an overview of the base family.

Left, Right and Center Drains Are Different Numbers

Ella bases are offered in more than one drain position, and each position has its own rough-in. When you ask for a measurement, always say which drain position you are ordering, because the answer changes with the position. The base size and threshold comparison lists the sizes and drain positions available across the base family.

How to Compare the Drawing with Your Existing Drain

  1. Get the Specification drawing for your exact model and drain position.
  2. Locate your existing drain pipe and have your plumber measure from the center of the pipe to the wall framing behind it and to the framing on the nearer side wall. The base sits against the framing once finish materials are removed, so measure to the studs where possible.
  3. Compare your two measurements to the back-wall and side-wall figures on the drawing.
  4. If the numbers match within the tolerance your plumber is comfortable with, the base can be set over the existing line.
  5. If they do not match, decide with your plumber whether to move the drain line or to change the base.

If Your Existing Drain Does Not Line Up

You have two options. A licensed plumber can relocate the drain line, which is routine in a remodel when the floor is open. Or, if moving the drain is impractical, ask about a custom-size base with the drain positioned to suit your line. Read custom-size shower bases and how close to the wall the drain can be for what can be made. Ella does not send technicians, so a local licensed plumber does the rough-in and connection work.

Common Questions

What are the drain rough-in dimensions for my shower base?
They are on the Specification drawing for your model, measured from the back wall and the side wall to the center of the drain. The figures differ by model and drain position, so there is no universal number. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 for the drawing if you do not have it.
Is the drain measured from the framing or the finished wall?
The drawing dimensions run from the outer edge of the base, which sits against the wall framing when installed. Have your plumber measure your existing drain to the studs rather than to finish materials that will come out, and confirm the measurement before the base is ordered.
Does the measurement change with a left, right or center drain?
Yes. Each drain position has its own distances from the back wall and side wall. Always state the drain position when you request a measurement.
Where do I find the drawing for my shower base?
Every Ella shower base has a Specification drawing with the base dimensions and the drain location. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 for the drawing for your exact model and drain position.
What if my existing drain is a few inches off?
A licensed plumber can usually relocate the drain line while the floor is open during the remodel. If that is not practical, ask about a custom base with the drain positioned to match. Your plumber should measure the existing line before either decision is made.

Still Need Help?

Open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or call (800) 480-6850 and have your model and serial number ready.

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