Shower Doors

Choosing the right shower door comes down to your bathroom layout, shower size and how much room you have around the enclosure. These FAQs are based on the questions we're most often asked by customers choosing a shower door, and cover the main things to think about before you choose, from door type and fitting to measuring and glass thickness.

 

Which type of shower door is best?

The best shower door depends on your bathroom size, layout and how much access space you want. Each style works slightly differently, so it helps to compare how they open and how much room they need:

• Hinged shower doors are a good choice if you want wide, easy access to your shower. They feel sturdy and work well in busy bathrooms, but you will need enough clear floor space for the door to open out properly.
• Sliding shower doors are ideal for smaller bathrooms because they do not swing out into the room. The panels move along tracks to help save space, although the opening can feel narrower than a hinged door and the tracks may need a little more cleaning.
• Bi-fold shower doors are another practical space-saving option. They fold in on themselves, making them useful for square or rectangular shower enclosures where space outside the shower is limited.

For most bathrooms, a sliding door is the safest default, as it works in the widest range of spaces and doesn't require any clearance outside the shower. If space isn't a concern, a hinged door tends to feel more premium and gives the widest opening.

 

Do you measure shower doors by the glass size or including the frame?

Shower door sizes usually refer to the shower tray or opening they are designed to fit, rather than the exact size of the glass panel itself. For example, a shower door listed as 1500mm will not usually have a 1500mm glass panel, as space may be needed for wall channels, tiling, adjustment or a side panel.

Before you choose, check the product's dimensions tab for the exact measurements. It is also worth measuring your finished space after tiling, as this gives you the most accurate size to work from.

 

How thick are glass shower doors?

Glass thickness can vary by product, but typically runs from 4mm to 10mm. Thicker glass can feel more solid and substantial, but it may also be heavier to open, close and install. Thinner glass is lighter, which can make it easier to handle and fit. Most glass shower doors are made from toughened safety glass.

 

Is it easy to fit a new shower door?

Fitting a new shower door can be manageable for a confident DIYer with the right tools and a good understanding of home installation jobs. The door needs to be fitted straight and level, with wall channels secured properly and panels installed in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.

You will usually need to drill pilot holes carefully, fix the frame or wall channels securely, fit the side and door panels, then seal the outside edges and joints with silicone. Getting the measurements, alignment and seal right is important, as this helps the door open smoothly and reduces the risk of leaks.

The most common issue is not accounting for the adjustment range. Most door frames have some tolerance built in, but if your measurements are off by more than a few millimetres, the door may not seal or sit correctly. If you are unsure, it is best to use a qualified installer or local plumber. This helps make sure your shower door is fitted safely, securely and watertight.

 

How long does a shower door last?

A good quality shower door should last between 8 and 15 years with reasonable use and regular maintenance. Budget doors with lighter fittings or basic seals may need replacing sooner, and components like seals or rollers may need attention before the glass itself does.