How To Prepare For A Glass Shower Enclosure

One of the ways of improving the aesthetics of your bathroom is by installing a glass shower enclosure. However, without the appropriate considerations, you may end up wasting money and getting disappointed. Here are some ways to prepare for a glass shower enclosure.

Reinforce Your Walls

The first step towards preparing your bathroom for a glass shower enclosure is reinforcing your walls. Remember, a frameless glass shower features heavy glass panels. Therefore, you need to ensure the panels are securely supported. The hardware should be attached to structural framing.

Include blocking on your walls at the point where the hinges and glass support connect. If you opt for a full-height shower enclosure, ensure the ceiling is reinforced. It's best to make these preparations before installing the enclosure.

Consider The Swing of the Shower Door

The international residential code recommends that your shower doors swing open outward. If you fail to follow this standard, you will be in violation. However, you can choose for your door to swing inward and outward.

The shower door should also have a minimum of 30" on the outside to ensure it opens fully. The bathroom should have sufficient space to support these swing recommendations. If your bathroom space isn't sufficient for these standards, you should choose a sliding door.

Curb Top

A curb top allows a nice transition from the glass shower enclosure into your bathroom. Make sure you choose a suitable material for your curb top. For this part, many homeowners choose small tiles.

However, tiles are susceptible to mold, leaks, and mildew. A good alternative is to verify that shower curb tops are on a solid surface. This will ensure the shower seal works appropriately. Try granite, marble, and solid tiles.

Choose The Right Glass

When preparing for a glass shower enclosure, think about the thickness, color, and patterns for the glass enclosure. Strong panels should be 1/2 inches of thick architectural glass. The minimum recommended thickness for a glass enclosure is 3/8 inches. If you want to minimize staining, you can use coated glass panels.

Remember the glass you choose will determine the hardware options for your bathroom. For example, hinges and supports are suited for specific glass panel sizes. Your bathroom design expert will help you choose the right glass based on the hardware in your bathroom.

Choosing glass shower enclosures for your bathroom shouldn't be taken lightly. You need to take time to research the different types of enclosures and find one that suits your specific needs. Also, ensure you find a qualified professional as they will take all the necessary precautions when installing the enclosure. Contact a glass shower enclosure service for more information.