About Glass Shower Enclosures

When it comes to shower enclosures you have plenty of options. There are two basic paths to consider when pursuing shower doors, framed glass shower doors and frameless glass shower doors. Shower enclosures can be custom units and they can also be purchased off the shelf.

Framed glass shower doors offer basic functionality at an affordable price. Frameless glass shower doors, on the other hand, offer a modern and sleek look and are easy to maintain but are quite expensive.

Framed glass enclosures are typically less expensive than the frameless variety. As their name suggests, they are constructed out of sheets of glass that are framed by metal.

The glass sheets associated with these enclosures are typically not as thick as frameless glass shower enclosures. In addition, installing a framed shower door is typically a bit easier than a frameless shower door.

These enclosures can be found at any bathroom supply center or home improvement center. They are available in a variety of standard sizes and typically can be adjusted a little.

Styles of framed glass shower enclosures include: sliding enclosures, fixed panel sliders, swing doors, and combo door and panel enclosures. They are also available in corner shower door styles.

The metal frames can come in a variety of materials, including chrome, brushed nickel and bronze, oil rubbed bronze and many more. Glass styles include clear, tinted, smoked and Venetian glass to name just a few.

Frameless shower doors involve mounting heavy duty tempered glass directly to the shower walls with hefty, but small, metal hardware. Even the handles are mounted through the glass. The glass associated with frameless enclosures is typically either 3/8 or ½ inch thick. Consequently, frameless enclosures are sturdier than framed door enclosures.

Frameless glass shower doors also do a better job of enabling the beauty of a custom ceramic tile shower to be visible in the bathroom.

Frameless shower doors are custom projects, so there is complete flexibility on the size and styles. In addition, the shower enclosures can be designed to open in a number of ways, including hinged and bifold openings.

Because of this, they are expensive. Expect to spend over $1000 on even a basic frameless door.

Due to the fact that frameless doors have no metal tracks, there are no cracks and crevices for soap scum to collect and for mold and mildew to grow. Consequently frameless shower doors are easier to maintain and keep clean. In addition, since there are no metal frames to rust and corrode, they last longer.

Finally, because of their beauty and durability, they are valued by homebuyers, and thus may increase the value of your home when you are ready to sell it.

Like framed shower doors, frameless glass enclosures can often be purchased at bathroom suppliers, kitchen and bath outlets, or home improvement centers. Custom glass and mirror stores also commonly install frameless enclosures.

Here are a few other related topics you might find interesting:

Bathroom Spas

Handicap Showers

Hookless Shower Curtains

Shower Curtain Rods

Best Shower Heads

Shower Plumbing Fixtures

Steam Showers

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