By Kevin Wisecarver
Shower enclosures use several ways to contain water and support their panels. Framed and frameless designs are part of that range. Looking at the differences in construction helps explain why they look and feel different in use.
What came first, framed or frameless shower doors?
Similar to the age old question, which came first, the chicken or the egg, you might be wondering whether framed or frameless shower doors came first. Thankfully, there's a much simpler answer to that question.
Framed shower doors came first, in the early 1900s. They boast longevity as a popular shower enclosure option as many are still used today. They are often a sought after choice instead of a traditional tub with shower curtain.
Frameless shower doors are more modern, but popped on the scene much earlier than you may have thought; as early as 1970! Their designs have changed over the years and their durability increased with the advances in science and technology.
The pros and cons of framed glass shower doors
Framed shower doors may have been around longer, and some may consider them to be dated, but they still have a lot to offer! Some of the pros and cons of framed glass shower doors include:
Pros
- A metal casing makes them more stable.
- Great choice for those who still prefer a visual boundary between their shower space and the rest of the bathroom.
- Often an economical option.
Cons
- Metal casing is prone to corrosion and buildup over time.
- The explicitly frame makes for a slightless less seamless look.
- Can be perceived as outdated when not styled currently.
Now that you’re familiar with the pros and cons of framed glass shower doors, let's take a look at the pros and cons of their successor, the frameless glass shower door.
The pros and cons of frameless glass shower doors
Frameless glass shower doors are much sought after these days and can be found in a variety of different home styles. Their versatility makes it easy to integrate frameless shower doors into various bathroom styles. That’s not all they have to offer:
- Frameless style makes enclosures appear seamless and more spacious.
- Great choice for those who still prefer a sleek and modern look.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Requires skilled installation to ensure stability. (When installed by a professional, this concern is mitigated.)
- Demands a more detailed and precise installation process. (If you have the skills, this becomes an opportunity rather than a drawback.)
The benefits of frameless shower doors and enclosures
When it comes to frameless shower doors and enclosures, the benefits are clear to see. From longevity to style, there's much to benefit from.
Easy to clean and maintain
As hygienic and necessary as it may be, cleaning a shower may not be top on your priority list. Why not make it easier on yourself with a frameless option that stays cleaner by design? Without the frames, it’s harder for mold and residue to build up. To make it that much easier, most cleaning only requires a squeegee or microfiber cloth.
Nothing beats a sleek modern look
A sleek modern look is the look of many freshly remodeled bathroom ps today. A frameless shower door or enclosure will fit right in!
A design that fits any bathroom space
Whether your bathroom space is small and secluded or large and luxurious, there’s a frameless design that’s right for you. The beauty of frameless options is that they're highly customizable, fitting both style and measurements to your specific needs.
Current trends in custom glass shower door designs
With the evolution of the shower door comes trends in design. The most recent trend is the customization of shower door designs. Custom fits for the precise angle and dimension of your space means that no space is too oddly shaped or complicated to support a frameless glass door.
Unlike the early days where glass finishes were limited, there are many more to choose from now. Several options include:
- Clear: A clear finish supports the most seamless and spacious looks. This finish is a good choice for small spaces.
- Frosted or Etched: Frosted glass is a great choice for those who want a bit of privacy while still enjoying the transparency that glass provides.
- Tinted: Tinted glass provides an open feel, allows for natural light, while supporting a light decree of privacy in a color that suits your bathroom’s color palette.
Finding the right company to install your new frameless shower door and enclosure
With the rise in popularity of frameless shower doors and enclosures, companies are popping up all over claiming to build your dreams. It's best not to tame these claims at face value, but to do some research on the company. Get an idea of how long they've been in business. Scope out their reviews and see what people have to say. Make note if any professional accreditations or awards that may be received,