Shower enclosures play an important role in every bathroom and will last for many years. You will rely heavily on your shower enclosure to accommodate for the whole families needs; this is why it is important to get it right the first time.
Shower enclosures come in a variety of styles, shapes and heights. The shapes of the shower enclosures fall within certain categories these being square, rectangle, oblong, quadrant and offset quadrant. It is important to combine both a practical space to shower and keep bathroom space to a premium. The other thing to consider is the amount of work that is involved in the replacement of the shower enclosure. If you’re older shower enclosure can be replaced with a like for like style this will save a lot of plumbing and pipe work installation issues. Although if you are wanting a new shower enclosure this isn’t as difficult as you may think, ask a professional for more advice.
If you are undertaking a complete bathroom re model then you are open to many different options. The main consideration is the shower door which is available in a range of styles including pivot, bifold, sliding and hinged designs. The shower doors can be mixed and matched with the relevant side panel to create the perfect shower enclosure size. Pivoting shower enclosures are great when looking for a smaller sized enclosure; this makes them popular choices for en suites and restricted spaces. Hinged shower enclosures operate in the same way, they open outwards as well. Hinges make the shower door open right from the outer edge which means there is no intrusion into the showering area unlike pivoting shower enclosures. Frameless shower doors are popular in this style as they represent a stylish and minimal addition to a bathroom. The minimal framing creates a modern bathroom feel and creates a more light and airy space to enjoy.
Sliding shower enclosures come in larger sizes starting from 1000mm upwards this makes them large and spacious which a lot of people prefer. Sliding shower enclosures are the ideal replacement choice when taking out a bath as they come in standard bath sizes to replace the exact space. Bifolding shower enclosures are the perfect solution to small and awkward space situations. The inward opening makes them ideal when a basin or toilet is in the way. Offset and quadrant shower enclosures are great for corner installations. They still give enough space to shower whilst saving bathroom space. Quadrant shower enclosures come in 800mm, 900mm and 1000mm sizes. These sizes will suit most bathroom spaces and look neat and sleek when installed. D shape shower enclosures as the name states offer a design which is extremely curved and only needs one wall for installation. Mostly all of the quadrant shower enclosures and offset quadrant enclosures have sliding shower doors. This creates a large entry point into the shower and also doesn’t intrude into outside space. It is not just the width and depth which needs to be considered when purchasing a shower enclosure. The height is also important and so is the overall height when teamed with a shower tray. Standard shower enclosure heights in the industry tend to be 1850mm upwards and 1950mm. If you are restricted on height due to a sloping ceiling or any other reason then this may result in a bespoke shower enclosure production. Standard shower enclosure heights in the industry tend to be 1850mm upwards and 1950mm. If you are restricted on height due to a sloping ceiling or other installation issue then a bespoke shower enclosure may have to be made. This will be more costly to make as it will be made to the relevant requirements and dimensions. A bespoke shower enclosure is restricted to particular styles so this will have to be agreed with the supplier.
When looking for a good quality shower enclosure the main consideration is to look at the fittings, glass thickness and other components of the shower enclosure. The components of the shower door maybe not the first thing you think of when choosing your shower enclosure but it is important. The shower door rollers are important for the longevity and quality of the enclosure as a whole. Minimising water leaks is imperative so a good seal and closure is important. Magnetic closure on the shower doors keeps the door secure when the shower is operating. The seals also help the shower enclosure aesthetically pleasing. Door handles made from solid metal are ideal for family bathrooms and are great for smaller children using the enclosure. Generally 5 and 6mm glass is the normal standard for shower enclosures. In bifold shower enclosures you may find that the thickness is not as thick this is so the shower door can move more freely and open easier. Strong aluminium framing will result in a sturdy shower enclosure for many years to come in the future. This is available in both white and chrome frame finishes, suiting your personal style and bathroom design. If you are looking for a more private showering time there are options for ribbon and privacy glass options. This may result in the whole shower door or just a particular area. They are available from certain manufacturers as an option and are popular options for properties where students may live or showering areas in gyms etc. Another consideration is the adjustment of the frame work; this will differ depending on that particular manufacturer. Some frames will adjust up to 60mm giving a great tolerance to use when installing. The adjustment is imperative to the installation, if this is incorrect this will stop the new shower enclosure installation altogether. Double check the measurements before installation.
Shower enclosures are always combined with a shower tray, so this also has to be considered. Always try for a stone resin base which allows for a sturdy and reliable showering base. Make sure that the shower tray is as good as the shower enclosure this way you know that it is a great shower enclosure which can be relied upon for many years in the future.