Facts you’ll need to know include the exact dimensions of your shower space, how much room you have between the shower and other fixtures, how much time you want to invest in daily shower cleanup, and whether those frameless shower doors you saw on a design blog are really the best fit for your lifestyle and your wallet. Thankfully, there are plenty of framed and frameless options that offer an attractive look. There are several shower door styles to choose from along with different types of glass finishes. Here, learn about the options to help you decide which kind is best for your space. A “frameless” shower enclosure uses sturdy tempered glass (usually 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch thick) that does not require the support of metal around its exterior edges. The result is a sleek, modern look that is free of visual obstructions. In fact, one reason frameless options are so popular is that they help showcase beautiful stonework, intricate tile designs, and gleaming hardware. Frameless shower doors are the easiest type to clean, as they do not include seals that develop buildup from water over time. One thing to keep in mind is that frameless doors generally do include some metal. Frameless units can be virtually metal-free, except for clips on any stationary panels, hinges, and handles. What’s more, the term “frameless” can also apply to doors with frames along the top edge and around the sides. This type of installation is sometimes, but not always, referred to as “semi-frameless.” A word on price: A frameless shower generally costs about twice as much as a basic, metal-enclosed model. Additionally, frameless shower doors can leak if not installed properly, so it’s important to work with a reputable contractor and ensure that your shower pan slopes toward the drain. A semi-frameless pivot door with 3/8 inch thick tempered glass and a taller-than-standard 76-inch height helps to impart a sleek, streamlined look. Prices range from about $959 to $2,100. This classic pivot shower door is part of Basco’s Thinline 136 series. While the door itself is frameless, the oil-rubbed bronze finish that surrounds the unit makes a striking statement that works equally well in a traditional or contemporary bathroom (don’t forget to add a matching drain cover). Prices range from $650 to $1,500. The Enigma X Frameless Sliding Tub Door features 3/8 inch thick glass treated with an exclusive protective coating. On this model, the doors glide effortlessly on stainless steel wheels over a stainless steel track bar. This option is priced at around $1,000, although budget shower doors for tubs are also available. The frameless sliding doors in this photo show off the beauty of the shower without hogging too much room. Sliding doors can range from $500 up to $1,500 or more. If you’re planning to buy a swing-out door, it’s a good idea to enlist a professional to help you measure your space. You’ll want to make sure there’s enough clearance between the fully-opened door and surrounding bath fixtures before installation.
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