Types of Shower Doors and Choosing the Best Sliding Shower Doors for Your Bathroom
Shower doors are preferable to shower curtains for many homeowners because of their sleek and modern appearance, their ability to keep water inside the tub, and ease of cleaning. However, there are a few things to consider before picking out a new shower door for your bathroom.
Here is a buying guide for choosing the best sliding shower doors and other types of shower doors for your home’s bathroom. We’ll describe the various types of shower doors, how to measure shower doors to get the right fit, and the pros and cons of installing a glass door to help you make your decision.
Types of Shower Doors
Once you start shopping for shower doors, you might be surprised to learn how many different types of doors there really are. Some of the best sliding shower doors, for example, operate like patio doors and have two panes that roll on tracks in front of one another. You can also choose a fixed door that remains stationary for a modern look. Meanwhile, hinged shower doors swing in and out to allow entry for stand-alone showers. Bi-fold and tri-fold shower doors feature multiple glass panels and are ideal for small bathrooms with limited space.
How to Measure Shower Doors
It’s important to know the exact size of the doors you’ll need for your shower to ensure proper closure and safety. Place a tape measure across the length of the bottom, center, and top of your shower opening. Then measure the height of the door on both sides of the opening. Take measurements to the nearest 1/16 inch and take a couple measurements of each location for maximum accuracy. It’s also useful to use a level to ensure that all surfaces around the shower are level. If they aren’t, a tapered filler may need to be used during the installation process.
Shower Door Frames and Glass Types
You’ll also need to pick out a frame type for the types of shower doors you choose that may go all the way around the glass. Traditional frames are commonly made up of aluminum or composite materials and also have tracks to catch water so it doesn’t leak out onto the floor. Alternatively, you can opt for a frameless look for a sleek aesthetic and easier cleaning or a semi-frame look for a compromise.
There are also various glass types to choose from for shower doors, such as frosted doors for privacy and patterned doors for a touch of creativity. Clear glass without any obstructions can also be used for shower doors for a clean look if privacy isn’t a concern.
Installation Pros and Cons for Shower Doors
The pros of installing a glass door for your shower include the ability to customize them to suit your taste and not needing to have to clean and replace shower curtains as often. Certain types of shower doors, such as frameless models, minimize the risk of mold growing in your shower area too. However, shower doors can become costly if you choose custom designs, and sometimes aesthetic customizations sacrifice quality when it comes to preventing water leaks. Of course, this can be remedied by only buying shower doors made by high-quality manufacturers and that are installed by an experienced professional.
We offer many beautiful and functional shower doors from top brands and in various metal finishes, sizes, and price points. Popular options are our brushed nickel, gold, silver, and oil rubbed bronze doors that slide, pivot, and look stunning with every use. Contact the Grande Central Showroom nearest you to learn more about the shower doors we offer and for additional buying tips when selecting new doors for your bathroom.