Imagine stepping into a fresh, warm shower surrounded by clean, shiny glass. The kind of shower door you pick – either framed or frameless – can make this image come to life. These days, people are thinking about these two popular types of shower enclosures when they want to make their bathrooms look modern.
Both types of shower doors have their own benefits, like how they work, how they look, and how easy they are to clean. However, you might wish you had chosen differently if you rush your decision.
Don’t worry, though! This article will help you understand the main differences between framed and frameless shower doors. Keep reading to find out which shower door will make your bathroom look and feel just right.
What Are Framed Shower Doors?
Framed shower doors are a classic choice in bathroom design. They are ideal for those prioritizing durability and cost-effectiveness. These shower enclosures use metal framing to secure the glass panels and door, adding sturdiness and support.
The frames are typically made from aluminum or steel, which can be finished in a variety of styles to match your bathroom decor. Whether you’re setting up a new shower in a family home or updating a rental property, framed doors offer reliable functionality.
The design variety among framed doors is impressive, extending beyond the frame color to the types of glass itself. They also come with a waterproof seal around the edges to prevent water from leaking out. This helps make them an excellent choice for shower-over-bath setups or high-traffic bathrooms.
What Are Frameless Shower Doors?
If your bathroom remodels leans towards a minimalist, modern aesthetic, frameless shower doors might be your top pick. Unlike their framed counterparts, these enclosures do not have metal support around the edges of the glass. This design creates a sleek, clean line that can make your bathroom appear more spacious and luxurious.
Constructed from heavy-duty tempered glass, frameless doors are durable despite their delicate appearance. Their thickness typically ranges between 3/8 to 1/2 inch, providing stability and safety.
The absence of frames also makes cleaning easier. There are fewer crevices where mold and mildew can build up. Frameless shower doors also often feature high-quality hinges and hardware for smooth operation.
Choosing frameless shower doors often comes with a higher price tag. This is mainly due to the thicker glass and specialized hardware required. But for many homeowners, the clean aesthetics, perceived expansiveness, and ease of maintenance are well worth the investment.
Framed vs. Frameless: Factors to Consider
So, how do you actually choose between these two types of showers? There are several factors to ponder over, such as budget, bathroom size, and design aesthetics.
Framed shower doors are typically more budget-friendly, making them a practical choice for homeowners keeping a close eye on costs. Their robust design and additional water sealing make them great for high-usage bathrooms, especially in busy households.
On the other hand, frameless shower doors require a larger budget due to their thicker glass and specialized hardware. However, the payoff is in the design aesthetics.
The seamless look of frameless doors can create an illusion of a more spacious bathroom, ideal for smaller spaces. The sleek, modern appearance can also complement your bathroom renovation, adding a touch of luxury.
Maintenance preferences are another key factor. Frameless doors are generally easier to clean due to the lack of crevices where grime can accumulate. Framed doors, while a bit more challenging, are still manageable with regular cleaning.
Picking the Perfect Shower Door for Your Bathroom
Choosing between framed and frameless shower doors is all about what you need and want. Do you like the strong, timeless look of framed doors? Or do you prefer the smooth, modern feel of frameless shower doors?
At Michael Angelo’s, we’re ready to help you make these choices. We offer custom mirrors and shower doors that are made to make your bathroom work well and look great. Reach out to us today for help in making your shower space just right.
