Installing a glass shower door is a great way to add style and functionality to your bathroom. The total cost of the project depends on the size and type of door, as well as the type of glass. Frameless shower doors are made of thick tempered glass panels mounted on the wall with clips or hinges, instead of a metal frame. This type of door is considered a customized option, since it requires particular hardware for assembly.
Ultra-clear glass doors have become increasingly popular in recent years. If you want to increase privacy, create an opaque door, or add interesting patterns or images to the shower door, you can apply frosting. Euro shower doors are also known as frameless doors and are mounted with clips instead of a frame, creating a clean, minimalist look. If your shower extends into the room, you may want to get a full shower cubicle instead of a door or door and panel.
Shower doors are expensive because the panels are made of tempered safety glass designed to break into small, sharp pieces instead of dangerous fragments. It takes 2 to 7 days to manufacture the glass panels after the installer measures the bathroom for the new door. Framed shower doors also come in a three-panel, neo-angular style designed to fit in the corner of a small bathroom. Self-installation is difficult because it requires special tools and at least two people to maneuver the heavy glass.
Each door style is generally available in a variety of stock sizes, and any door can also be customized to fit odd-sized openings or bathrooms. Frosting can be applied to both sides of the glass and is considered textured glass, making it more difficult to clean. However, curtains need to be replaced several times over the years, while a door can last for decades if properly maintained. This type of glass is known as an “obscuring” glass, meaning it still lets in light but makes it difficult to see inside the shower.
Clear glass still has a small amount of green tint but is much lighter and truer in color, allowing you to get a better view inside. The total cost of installing a glass shower door depends on several factors such as size and type of door, type of glass, and whether you choose self-installation or professional installation. Keep in mind that most professionals consider frameless doors to be customized options that require particular hardware for assembly.
