Bathroom Shower Doors
There are three popular styles of shower doors that are commonly used in bathroom remodeling. Here we will break down a few of the main differences.
Framed Shower Doors
Framed shower doors are your most basic option. Used for many years as a builder grade option, they are affordable, readily available and less desirable in todays marketplace.
The term "framed" comes from the metal frame that is placed around the glass itself. The framing is usually Almunium and typically 1.25-1.5 inches thick. The most common glass is diffused as seen in the picture below and you can usually find these in stock at most big box stores.
Frameless Shower Doors
Frameless shower doors are becoming the mainstream, as there are so many companies now producing this style, that the price has dropped in the last 3 years or so. Although there is still a frame visible, the glass itself has no frame around it.
These shower doors come in two sizes, 1/4" and 3/8" thick. You also have lot's of great choices for the glass, everything from clear glass to reeded. The clear glass tends to be the best seller, as most people want to show the beauty of the tile, it also helps open up the space.
The door below has a ball bearing glide system in the header, which makes for smooth operation. Also there is a drip rail, to make sure water flows back into the tub without creating calcium buildup.
Sizes range from 28-66 inches wide, and are usually made to fit most standard shower bases and bath tubs. If you have an odd shape or oversized shower, you may need a custom enclosure as seen in the next section.
Here is an example of a frameless bypass shower door, in a brushed nickel finish with clear glass.
Custom Frameless Shower Doors
Custom shower doors are used when you want a sleeker look or when you have an oversize shower as seen in the photo below. Most custom shower doors are 3/8" thick, but when more strength is needed 1/2" glass is available at a slightly higher cost.
Typically, the header that runs across the top of a custom enclosure is smaller than that of a bypass door. Bypass (sliding) doors require space for a glide system, and custom enclosures usually feature swing style doors.
You can also run the shower door to the ceiling, which requires no header, and really makes for a great look. Although, you then need to make sure you remember to leave the shower door open after use, so the steam can vent!
Custom shower doors are a great way to finish off a high end enclosure. They do come with a higher price point, and a longer lead time though. Fabricators must measure once the tile is in place prior to creating your door. This ensures a perfect fit, and that all panels are properly aligned.
Below is a remodel we completed in Chicago, this is a custom shower enclosure that wraps around a bench at the rear of a shower.
Shower Door Care
To receive years of beautiful service from your enclosure requires only a minimum of care and maintenance.
You should not use cleaners that might scratch your glass or do damage to the metal finish of your enclosure. Cleaners you should NOT use include:
• Vinegar or vinegar-based cleaners
• Abrasive powders
• Steel or teflon pads
In looking for the best cleaner that's also gentle on surfaces, BEMA (The Bath Enclosure Manufacturers Association) tested some of the most popular cleaners and found Lysol Bathroom Cleaner to be the most effective while still being gentle on the glass and metal surfaces of an enclosure.