Framed Shower Doors and Frameless Shower Door Enclosures Pros and Cons
By Mark J. Donovan
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When it comes to shower door enclosures you have plenty of options. There are two basic paths to consider when pursuing shower door enclosures, framed glass shower doors and frameless glass shower doors. Shower door enclosures can be custom units and they can also be purchased off the shelf. Framed glass shower door enclosures offer basic functionality at an affordable price. Frameless glass shower door enclosures, on the other hand, offer a modern and sleek look and are easy to maintain but are quite expensive.
Framed Glass Shower Door Enclosures Framed glass shower door enclosures are typically less expensive than frameless glass shower doors. |
Framed glass shower door enclosures, as their name suggests, are constructed out of sheets of glass that are framed in by metal. The glass sheets associated with framed glass shower door enclosures are typically not as thick as frameless glass shower door enclosures. In addition, installing a framed shower door is typically a bit easier to do than a frameless glass shower door.
| Framed glass shower door 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.
Framed glass shower door enclosures styles 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, rain and Venetian glass to name just a few. |
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Frameless Glass Shower Door Enclosures
Frameless glass shower doors involve mounting heavy duty tempered glass directly to the shower walls with hefty, but small, pieces of metal hardware. Even the handles are mounted through the glass. The glass associated with frameless glass shower door enclosures is typically either 3/8 or ½ inch thick. Consequently frameless glass shower door enclosures are sturdier than framed glass shower 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 glass shower doors are custom projects, so there is complete flexibility on the size and styles. In addition, the shower doors can be designed to open in a number of ways, including hinged and bifold openings. Due to the fact that frameless glass shower door enclosures are custom projects, they are expensive. Expect to spend over $1000 on even a basic frameless glass shower door. |
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Due to the fact that frameless glass shower door enclosures have no metal tracks, there are no cracks and crevices for soap scum to collect and for mold and mildew to grow.
| Consequently frameless glass 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 glass shower doors, frameless glass shower door enclosures can often be purchased at bathroom supplier stores or home improvement centers. Custom glass and mirror stores also commonly install frameless glass shower door enclosures. |
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Related Information
- How to Tile a Custom Ceramic Tiled Shower eBook
- How to Install a Mortar Shower Pan eBook
- Clawfeet Bath Tubs
Additional Bathroom Remodeling Design Resources
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