How to Choose a Frameless Shower Door

Choose door type around the room

A hinged door needs a safe swing path that clears the toilet, vanity, towel bars and entry door. Sliders save swing space but use different hardware and track details.

Plan structural support before tile

Heavy glass panels and hinges may require blocking in the wall. Adding support before waterproofing and tile is easier than trying to solve it afterward.

Keep the curb and threshold in mind

The curb must be shaped and waterproofed correctly before glass is installed. Avoid unnecessary fastener penetrations through horizontal waterproofed surfaces.

Decide how open you want the shower

A fixed panel can create a clean walk-in look, but the opening, shower-head direction and room temperature determine how much water and cool air escape.

Coordinate hardware finish

Match or intentionally contrast the shower hardware with faucets, cabinet pulls and lighting. Hardware availability varies by glass system.

Measure only after tile is finished

Finished openings are rarely perfectly square. Custom glass is normally templated after tile, grout and curb surfaces are complete so it can fit the actual opening.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Ordering glass from framing dimensions
• Forgetting door-swing clearance
• Skipping wall blocking for hinge locations
• Placing the shower head so it sprays directly through an open entry
• Drilling through waterproofed horizontal surfaces without a system-approved detail

Should you DIY or hire help?

Homeowners can select style and finish. Custom measurement, glass fabrication and installation should be left to an experienced shower-glass contractor coordinated with the tile installer.