Choosing the right glass for your shower enclosure is just as important as selecting the right enclosure itself. The glass you pick can affect both the look and the functionality of your shower, not to mention how easy it is to clean and maintain. With so many options available, it can be tricky to know where to start. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best glass for your shower enclosure.
Types Of Shower Glass
There are several types of glass commonly used in shower enclosures, each offering different benefits. Understanding these options will help you decide which is best for your bathroom.
- Clear Glass: This is the most popular option and offers a clean, sleek look that lets the design of your bathroom shine. Clear glass is great for smaller bathrooms as it helps to create the illusion of more space. Check out www.plumbworld.co.uk/shower-enclosures-56-0000.
- Frosted Glass: If privacy is a priority, frosted glass is an excellent choice. This type of glass obscures the view, so you can enjoy your shower without worrying about prying eyes. Frosted glass also hides water spots better than clear glass, making it a more low-maintenance option.
- Tinted Glass: Tinted glass offers a bit of privacy and a touch of style. Available in a variety of shades, tinted glass can add a modern or subtle look to your bathroom. It also helps to reduce glare from sunlight, which can be an added bonus in brighter bathrooms.
- Patterned Glass: This glass has a textured surface, which creates a unique look and helps to conceal water stains. The patterns can range from simple, subtle designs to more bold and dramatic options, allowing you to personalise the look of your shower.
Glass Thickness
The thickness of the glass you choose plays a role in the durability and aesthetic of your shower enclosure. Most shower enclosures use glass with a thickness ranging from 6mm to 10mm, though thicker glass is available for a more premium feel.
- 6mm Glass: This is typically the thinnest option for shower enclosures and is suitable for lighter, smaller enclosures. It’s more affordable but can feel less substantial compared to thicker glass.
- 8mm Glass: A popular choice for many modern shower enclosures, 8mm glass offers a good balance between sturdiness and cost. It’s less likely to bend or flex over time, making it a solid option for durability and style.
- 10mm Glass: If you want a luxurious, high-end look, 10mm glass is the way to go. It feels solid, looks premium, and is highly durable, making it ideal for large or frameless shower enclosures.
Thicker glass also adds more soundproofing and insulation, which can enhance the showering experience.
The Aesthetic Look
Your choice of glass will also contribute to the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. From sleek and modern to more traditional styles, the right glass can help to pull together the design of your shower and bathroom.
- Frameless Glass: Frameless glass enclosures are ideal if you want a minimalist, modern look. Without visible metal framing, the glass appears to “float” and allows the entire bathroom to shine. Frameless designs are also easier to clean as there are fewer areas where grime can accumulate.
- Framed Glass: Framed glass offers a more classic look, with metal framing surrounding the glass panels. This option is often more affordable and can still give your shower a stylish, well-constructed appearance.
- Semi-Framed Glass: For a balanced approach, semi-framed enclosures have some framing but still show off the beauty of the glass. They offer a modern yet classic feel and are a good compromise between frameless and fully framed designs.
Should I Choose A Framed Or Frameless Walk-In Shower?
Framed Walk-In Shower
First, you have a framed walk-in shower. This is often the design that homeowners choose because it’s more affordable and easier to install. What’s more, having frames around the glass means more durability. It’s going to lower the risk of glass breaking in the bathroom and becoming a hazard to everybody.
The downside of a framed design is that it can be bulkier than you imagined. If you’re looking for a sleek and open style, you might want to evaluate different frames and whether this is really the design you want. Something else you need to consider is cleaning. When you have a frame, it means that there are more crevices for dirt and mould to gather. So, you’ll have to be prepared for more cleaning.
Frameless Walk-In Shower
Next, you’ve got a frameless walk-in shower. This is a style that’s going to look more luxurious and open since it will be mostly glass. Due to this design, it’s likely going to make your bathroom feel bigger and more spacious. Note that it’s recommended that you get a good glass thickness for durability. The good news is that cleaning is going to be much easier without a frame.
Are there disadvantages to a frameless design? Well, you’ll need to make sure that you hire experienced installers for this job. This is going to ensure that there are no leaks. You also have to be prepared for the increased cost of this style.
Conclusion
Choosing the right glass for your shower enclosure goes beyond just looks; it impacts maintenance, safety, and overall bathroom design. Consider factors like thickness, privacy, coatings, and style to find the perfect glass that suits both your practical needs and aesthetic preferences. Whether you choose clear, frosted, or tinted glass, with the right decision, your shower will not only look fantastic but also perform beautifully for years to come.
