Shower curtains themselves are close to commodity items, but the track that carries them — straight, L-bend or modular — is where the actual specification decisions live, especially for accessible shower recesses where the track shape needs to match the AS1428.1 layout.
Curtain fabrics
- Box stripe polyester (mildew resistant, flame retardant to AS2755.2-1985): 1500x1800mm (SC_WBS1518, $86.85) up to 2600x2000mm (SC_WBS2620, $193.55), plus a 3000mm drop option (SC_WBS3018, $170.29).
- Nylon taffeta (lighter weight, same flame rating): 1500x1800mm (SC_WNT1518, $74.75) up to 2600x2000mm (SC_WNT2620, $149.55).
- Polyester taffeta, 3000mm drop — SC_WNT3018, $119.99 / SC_WNT3020, $182.69.
Box stripe polyester costs slightly more than taffeta at equivalent sizes but is the heavier, more durable fabric — the better choice for high-traffic commercial washrooms where curtains get handled roughly and need replacing less often.
Curtain tracks
- L-Bend track, anodised aluminium: 1200x1200mm (SCT_1200X1200MM, $261.99), 1600x1600mm (SCT_1600X1600MM, $284.89); Designer Black versions at $296.99 and $346.99 respectively.
- Straight track, Designer Black: 1200mm (SCT_1200MM_DESIGNER, $174.99), 2000mm (SCT_2000MM_DESIGNER, $212.99).
- Modular L-Bend track: 1200x1200mm (SCT_MOD1200X1200MM, $245.52), 1600x1600mm (SCT_MOD1600X1600MM, $271.99) — cheaper than the fixed L-bend equivalents, and easier to adapt on site.
How to choose
A straight track suits a simple inline shower recess; an L-bend suits a corner shower configuration, which is the more common accessible shower layout. The modular L-bend is worth the trade-off against the fixed version when the exact recess dimensions aren't locked in until installation — it adapts on site rather than needing an exact pre-order measurement. Match the track finish (satin aluminium or Designer Black) to the room's other hardware for a consistent look.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a flame-retardant curtain fabric?
Both box stripe polyester and the nylon/polyester taffeta options are rated to AS2755.2-1985, so either meets standard commercial fire safety requirements.
What's the real difference between the fixed and modular L-bend tracks?
The modular version is designed to be adjusted or extended on site, useful where exact recess dimensions aren't confirmed until installation; the fixed version is a set size and generally a little more expensive for an equivalent size.
Can I buy a curtain and track separately, or do they need to match?
They're sold separately and any Metlam curtain will hang on any Metlam track of a compatible length — match curtain width to track length rather than worrying about brand-matched sets.
How often should a commercial shower curtain be replaced?
This depends on traffic and cleaning regime rather than a fixed schedule — watch for mildew staining or fabric degradation as the practical replacement trigger.