Contemporary Tub Overflows

Contemporary tubs are trending in modern bathroom designs. They offer a sleek style that is versatile in a variety of bathroom renovations, from rustic to minimalist. Many can be paired with a freestanding faucet or even have the faucet built into the rim of the tub itself. One design aspect that can often be overlooked is the style of the overflow.

What is an overflow?

An overflow drain is an opening in the tub wall that allows excess water to be rerouted to the drain pipe and reduces the chance of the tub overflowing.

Traditional Overflow vs. Integral Overflow

A traditional overflow utilizes a hole cut into the hull of the tub for an exterior drain to be installed and attached to the inside of the tub wall. When a tub is filled to the level of the overflow, excess water is rerouted down the exterior tub drain. This style usually utilizes overflow covers in finishes that match the rest of the tub plumbing.

Integral overflows work differently. These style overflows are built into the tub itself. A hole is cut into the inner wall of the tub; when water reaches the level of the overflow, excess water is rerouted between the inner and outer wall of the tub, down to the tub drain. This process eliminates the need for an exterior drain. Many integral overflow tubs offer overflow covers in finishes that match the rest of the tub plumbing. Clean overflows (overflows cut into the tub wall that do not use an overflow cover) have become increasingly popular. We currently offer these styles with chrome, brushed nickel and white drain finishes.