Everything You Need to Know about Choosing a Shower Door

Whether you are updating an existing showing or adding a new one, you will be required to make several important decisions including which type of door you should buy. While you may think that choosing an enclosure for your shower is simple, it is actually far more complicated than you think as there are all kinds of materials used.

Some important facts you will have to know to choose the right shower door include how much room there is between your shower and other fixtures, the dimensions of the shower space, how much time you can invest in cleanup and whether those frameless doors you saw on Pinterest are really a good fit for your wallet and your lifestyle.

There are lots of doors available o the market today and below we will discuss a few….

Frameless Shower Doors

Frameless shower enclosures use sturdy tempered glass that doesn’t require metal’s support around the exterior edge. This results in a clean, modern look that’s aesthetically pleasing and is free of all visual obstructions. One of the major reasons behind the popularity of frameless shower enclosures is that they enhance the beauty of stonework, gleaming hardware, and intricate tile designs in the bathroom.

An important thing you should know about the frameless door shower glass option is that they generally include some metal-like clips on handles, hinges, and panels. The cost of frameless shower enclosures is generally two times higher than that of a basic shower door.

Semi-Frameless Shower Enclosures

If you like the look of frameless shower enclosures but your budget doesn’t allow you to have them, consider going for a semi-frameless shower enclosure. They are a good alternative. When looking for a semi-frameless shower enclosure, choose high-quality components like solid handles and permanently bonded hinges. Consider installing a semi-frameless shower door that is over 76-inch in height and has a 3/8-inch thick, tempered glass.

Framed Shower Enclosures

Framed shower doors are more affordable than semi-frameless and frameless enclosures. Not only that, but many models are eye-catching and will help enhance the visual look for your bathroom. Many framed shower doors are sturdy because of the heavy-duty aluminum frame that adds support and strength.  

Glass Enclosures

There are several types of glass shower doors available including hinged doors, sliding doors, and splash/screens guards. These can be used with both bathtub and shower installations. Generally, glass enclosures are offered in frameless and framed varieties and can be opaque, frosted, or clear.

Types of Opening Styles

·        Pivoting Door

Pivoting shower doors are also called hinge doors and swinging doors. These doors open similar to a standard door and are a good choice for traditional bathrooms.

If you intend to buy a pivoting door, then have your space measured by a professional. That’s because you’ll need to make sure that there is sufficient clearance between bath fixtures and the door when it’s fully opened.

·        Sliding Door

Sliding doors are a good choice for narrow bathrooms and tub enclosures. These doors take a lot less space than pivoting doors so you should go with them if you don’t have enough space in your bathroom. That way your door won’t come into contact with the toilet or any other object when you open it.

Sliding shower doors can generally cost anywhere between $500 and $1500 but more expensive ones are also available.

·        Bi-Fold Shower Doors

If you lack the space to install a pivot door but still want a wide opening door, you should consider going with the bi-fold shower door. Some designs offer a clean, glass look that can enhance the visual appeal of your bathroom.

Other Things to Consider When Looking for a Shower Door

·        Panel Shield or Full Door

When you are looking for a shower enclosure, you can choose from a shield or a full door. A shield is a glass panel that prevents splashes. Shields are available for regular showers as well as tubs. However, most people prefer a full shower door instead of a shield to eliminate splashing completely.

·        Corner or Alcove Installation

You must know the exact measurement and configuration of the shower enclosure you’re getting. If you have three walls and the enclosure is going to be at the front, then you’ll need it made for alcove installation. You’ll have to determine the measurement between the walls as shower enclosures usually allow an adjustment of one inch or less.

If you require two sides of the glass, you’ll need the door for corner installation. For this shower enclosure, you must have the width, length, and base of your shower base measured.

·        More Options and Upgrades for the Shower Door

It is always great to have a variety of options for personalizing your shower door so that it looks unique. If the faucets of your shower are square, you could consider getting a shower door that has square rollers, hinges, and handle.

You can also get a shower door with different kinds of accent finishes like wood or black. If you want more privacy, get something with mirror-finish. Sound and light features can be added for enhancing the showering experience.

·        Hardware

You should look for a shower enclosure with high-quality hardware because these things can eventually break. Some shower door manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty on hardware like roller and hinges. You should get your shower door from those manufacturers, as they will cover you in an event something unexpected happens.

We have shown you everything you need to know about choosing a shower door. Now, the next time you want to select a shower door for your shower or tub, you won’t face any issue with deciding which one to buy and install. If you are interested in knowing more details about shower enclosures, read more here.

Consider the aesthetics of the bathroom space so that the design ties in. You may want to have a color theme, and ensure that the door you pick fits with the space well, and works with the space as opposed to against it.