Any bathroom upgrade in a home renovation or new-build project today will by-pass the flimsy shower curtain in favour of a glass shower enclosure. Not only is the glass enclosure well suited to any style of interior, but it also looks streamline and clean, takes up less space, and makes the bathroom brighter.
When it comes to choosing your glass shower doors, there are two options – framed and frameless. As the names suggest, the difference lies in whether the glass door has a frame around it or not. There are pros and cons between the two types, and we hope this breakdown simplifies your decision-making process.
Framed Shower Doors
Pros: Framed shower doors have an aluminium framing that supports the glass. Installing a framed shower door is relatively easy and can be fitted over any type of shower or bath enclosure. This is ideal for upgrading an existing shower or bath. The ease of installation also translates to some cost savings. Thanks to the frame and track system, framed doors tend to be more watertight than frameless shower doors, as water from the spray is trapped in the track, preventing leakage.
Cons: While framed showers can be accessed through sliding doors or swing doors, there is some limitation to the size of opening, as well as the direction of swing. Homeowners need to give careful consideration if the door swings inward and outward. Compared with frameless doors, framed shower doors tend to look dated, although new materials, colour options and designs are now available to improve the appearance of framed doors.
Frameless Shower Doors
Pros: Frameless shower doors are a great choice for homeowners leaning towards a minimalist look, especially when designing a smaller space. In terms of aesthetics, the clean and unobtrusive characteristic of frameless doors allows other design aspects of the bathroom to shine through, such as the tilework or the fixtures. Frameless doors allow greater flexibility in how the opening is accessed, from sliding to swinging in both directions. Without a frame and tracks, cleaning and maintenance are also easier, as there are fewer spots for soap scum to accumulate.
Cons: Frameless doors are more expensive, due to the thicker glass, special hardware, and the greater complexity involved in their installation. Without a frame, these shower enclosures are less watertight than framed ones. For the same reason, they are also less secure and may need repairs sooner than framed doors.
Whichever option you pick, First Response Glass can help you every step of the way, from finding the best shower or tub enclosure for your project and your budget, to answering any questions you may have along the way. Contact us on 250-383-9300 for your no-obligation quote.
