Whether you're adding a new shower or updating an existing one, one of the most important considerations is the shower door option you choose. While your choice of enclosure might seem as transparent as—well, glass—it's actually a bit more complicated.
Facts you'll need to know include the exact dimensions of your shower space, how much room you have between the shower and other fixtures, how much time you want to invest in daily shower cleanup, and whether those frameless shower doors you saw on a design blog are really the best fit for your lifestyle and your wallet. Thankfully, there are plenty of framed and frameless options that offer an attractive look.
There are several shower door styles to choose from along with different types of glass finishes. Here, learn about the options to help you decide which kind is best for your space.
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Frameless Doors
Let's get the big questions out of the way first: What is a frameless shower enclosure, and why does everyone seem to want one?
A "frameless" shower enclosure uses sturdy tempered glass (usually 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch thick) that does not require the support of metal around its exterior edges. The result is a sleek, modern look that is free of visual obstructions. In fact, one reason frameless options are so popular is that they help showcase beautiful stonework, intricate tile designs, and gleaming hardware. Frameless shower doors are the easiest type to clean, as they do not include seals that develop buildup from water over time.
One thing to keep in mind is that frameless doors generally do include some metal. Frameless units can be virtually metal-free, except for clips on any stationary panels, hinges, and handles. What's more, the term "frameless" can also apply to doors with frames along the top edge and around the sides. This type of installation is sometimes, but not always, referred to as "semi-frameless."
2. Semi-Frameless Shower Doors
If you desire the contemporary look of a frameless enclosure but your layout and budget aren't suitable for it, a semi-frameless model can be a fine alternative. Look for high-quality components such as permanently bonded hinges, solid handles and patented glass coating.
A semi-frameless shower door with 3/8 inch thick tempered glass and a taller-than-standard 76-inch height helps to impart a sleek, streamlined look.
3. Framed Shower Doors
Just because they're more affordable doesn't mean that framed shower doors can't be as eye-catching as their frameless counterparts. You'll find many models that are both chic and sturdy thanks to heavy-duty aluminum framing, which adds strength and support. Framed shower doors are easier to install than frameless options, and thanks to their sealed construction, they're less likely to leak.
4. Bathtub Shower Doors
If you can't part with your bathtub but crave a look that's sleeker than a shower curtain, a glass tub enclosure could be your happy medium. This shower door option for bathtubs can be installed on an existing tub for a modern, easy-to-clean upgrade.
5. Sliding Doors
How your shower door opens depends on your style preferences and your bathroom layout. Sliding (also known as bypass) doors are a practical choice for tub enclosures and narrow bathrooms with closely-spaced fixtures.
The frameless sliding doors in this photo show off the beauty of the shower without hogging too much room.
6. Pivoting Doors
A pivot shower door—also known as swinging or hinge doors—opens like a standard door. These doors can make a sophisticated statement in a traditional or cottage-style bath such as this primary suite. Pivoting shower doors are popular for small bathrooms because they don't require as much width as a sliding door. Swing-in options are best in small spaces.
7. Bi-Fold Shower Doors
Bi-fold shower doors are a great shower door option for small showers. These doors allow for a wider walk-in opening when the room lacks space for a pivot door. The frameless design of Toolkiss's Butterfly door offers a clean, custom glass look and can be installed over a shower stall or a tub.