The right shower enclosure can transform your bathroom from “blah” to spa-worthy. It’s not just about functionality. It’s about making a statement, enhancing aesthetics, and ensuring durability. The two main types of glass shower enclosures—frameless and framed—each offer distinct benefits. Understanding the specifics of each type, including aesthetics, durability, and installation considerations can help you decide which type of shower enclosure fits your bathroom best.

Frameless Shower Enclosures: Minimalist and Modern 

Frameless shower enclosures are loved for their minimalist appearance. Made from tempered glass without needing a metal frame, they offer an unobstructed view that can make a bathroom appear larger and more open. This enclosure is particularly well-suited to contemporary bathrooms, adding elegance and luxury to a design.

• Aesthetics: Frameless shower doors provide a clean, modern look that enhances the visual flow of a bathroom. They offer a level of sophistication that creates a spa-like environment.

• Durability: Contrary to what people might think, the lack of a frame does not compromise durability. Frameless shower doors are made with thick glass, which makes them a sturdy and long-lasting option.

• Installation Considerations: Installing frameless shower enclosures can be complex. The heavier weight glass usually requires wall, ceiling, and floor support. The precision required to ensure the doors are perfectly aligned and sealed also adds to the installation cost.

• When to Choose Frameless: For an enclosure that enhances the sense of space, maximizes light, and aligns with a modern aesthetic, frameless is the way to go. It’s ideal for bathroom designs that aim to create an open, airy feel, and it can also make a small bathroom appear more spacious.

Framed Shower Enclosures: Classic and Sturdy

Framed shower enclosures, on the other hand, feature a metal frame that encases the glass panels and door. This traditional design is known for its durability and is available in many styles and finishes.

• Aesthetics: While framed shower doors offer a more traditional look, they can be highly customizable and stylish. The metal frames can be finished in various colors and styles to match the bathroom’s decor. There are also near-infinite possibilities with glass tints and patterns. However, they can make a bathroom feel more enclosed compared to frameless options.

• Durability: The metal frame supports the glass, making framed enclosures very stable and durable. They’re less likely to require adjustments over time since the frame helps maintain the structure of the enclosure.

• Installation Considerations: Framed shower enclosures are generally more straightforward and less expensive than frameless ones. Their design allows more flexibility in the alignment of doors and panels, and they don’t typically have the same support requirements as frameless styles.

• When to Choose Framed: Framed enclosures are an excellent option for those on a budget or with a bathroom design that calls for a more classic or detailed look. They’re also suitable for smaller bathrooms where the precision of a frameless installation might be challenging.

When choosing between frameless and framed shower enclosures, consider the bathroom’s overall design, size, and budget. Frameless shower enclosures can make a bathroom feel more spacious and luxurious, but they come with a higher price tag and more complex installation. Framed enclosures offer a more traditional appearance and are budget-friendly and easier to install, making them a practical choice for many homeowners.

No matter the type or size, our team has thousands of glass shower enclosure installations under our belts. Contact us to get the perfect enclosure started today.