Selecting the correct stainless steel wash trough size is critical when designing handwashing facilities for schools, workshops, and commercial buildings. Undersized troughs create congestion and hygiene issues, while poorly spaced tap layouts can reduce usability.

At Marko Stainless & Aluminium, we fabricate custom stainless wash troughs every day and understand how trough length and tap spacing directly affect performance in high-use environments. This guide explains the most common trough sizes used in Australia and how to choose the right configuration for your project.

Why Wash Trough Size and Tap Spacing Matter

Wash troughs are typically installed in areas where many users need access at the same time. Correct sizing and spacing ensures:

  • Smooth flow during peak use
  • Reduced queuing and crowding
  • Improved hygiene outcomes
  • Better long-term usability

In schools especially, troughs are often used by dozens of students at once, making length and tap spacing far more important than aesthetics alone.

Common Stainless Steel Wash Trough Sizes

1800mm Stainless Steel Wash Trough

The 1800mm wash trough is one of the most common sizes used in schools. It provides ample capacity while fitting comfortably within most wall layouts.

Typical applications include:

  • Primary and secondary schools
  • Outdoor handwashing areas
  • Change rooms and sports facilities

In school settings, taps are commonly spaced at 400mm centres, allowing multiple students to wash hands simultaneously without crowding.

2400mm Stainless Steel Wash Trough

A 2400mm stainless steel wash trough is ideal for busier locations where higher throughput is required.

Common uses include:

  • Large school campuses
  • Shared student amenities
  • High-traffic corridors

With 400mm tap spacing, a 2400mm trough comfortably supports multiple users at once and significantly reduces waiting times during recess and lunch breaks.

3000mm+ Stainless Steel Wash Troughs

In very busy environments, custom wash troughs over 3000mm long are often specified. These extended troughs are common in:

  • Major education facilities
  • Trade training centres
  • Public amenities and recreation areas

Custom-length troughs allow designers to maximise wall space and accommodate large user groups efficiently.

Tap Spacing – Schools vs Commercial Applications

School Tap Spacing

In schools, 400mm tap centres are widely used. This spacing suits students of different ages and ensures efficient use during peak times.

This configuration is standard across many education projects and works well with 1800mm, 2400mm, and longer troughs.

Workshop and Commercial Tap Spacing

In workshops, factories, and commercial applications, tap spacing is often wider than 400mm. This allows for:

  • Larger users
  • Heavier handwashing tasks
  • Reduced splash and interference between users

Custom tap spacing ensures the trough suits the specific use case rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Custom Stainless Wash Trough Fabrication

One of the biggest advantages of stainless steel is its flexibility. Custom stainless wash troughs can be fabricated to suit:

  • Exact wall lengths
  • Required tap spacing
  • Indoor or outdoor installations
  • Integrated splashbacks and returns

At Marko Stainless & Aluminium, we regularly fabricate troughs to suit site-specific requirements rather than forcing projects to fit standard sizes.

Stainless Steel vs Alternative Materials

Plastic or composite troughs often lack the strength and longevity required in schools and workshops. Stainless steel wash troughs offer:

  • Impact resistance
  • Long service life
  • Easy cleaning and hygiene
  • Professional, vandal-resistant finish

For high-traffic environments, stainless steel remains the most reliable material choice.

Why Choose Marko Stainless & Aluminium?

  • Trading since 1994
  • Australian-made stainless wash troughs
  • ASSDA accredited fabricator
  • Extensive experience with school and commercial projects
  • Custom sizes and tap spacing available

Our practical fabrication knowledge ensures troughs are designed for real-world use, not just drawings.

Conclusion

Choosing the right stainless steel wash trough size and tap spacing makes a measurable difference in usability and hygiene. With common sizes of 1800mm and 2400mm, and custom 3000mm+ troughs for high-traffic areas, stainless steel troughs can be tailored to suit any environment.

Call to Action
Contact Marko Stainless & Aluminium today to discuss custom stainless steel wash troughs, including correct sizing and tap spacing for your project.