Frameless versus framed shower doors – which is the best choice for your bathroom remodel? Janssen Glass demystifies the shower door dilemma. We specialize in shower doors and shower installation. When homeowners ask us which kind of door to install in their bathroom, like many other things, the answer is…it depends. The two main things it depends on is budget and style.
What Is the Difference between Framed & Frameless Shower Doors?
First, let’s define what makes a shower door framed or frameless. A framed shower door is the classic shower door with a metal frame surrounding all the edges of the glass. The frame is necessary to support the glass and keep it from flexing or breaking. When advances in glass technology made heavy glass (thicker and more rigid) available, shower doors no longer required the frame for support. Frameless glass shower doors can be secured with a few simple clips.
Framed Shower Doors Are More Affordable
If you are simply looking to upgrade a smaller, lesser used bathroom in your home, framed shower doors are usually ideal. While not as attractive because of the necessary frame, these doors are very utilitarian, but not unattractive. They simply aren’t considered as upscale or fancy as frameless doors. There are some semi-frameless shower doors as well that may only have one or two sides framed. These may provide a happy medium both when it comes to price and style.
Another consideration is whether children will be using the shower primarily. Framed shower doors usually keep water inside the shower better. Children are notorious for not paying attention to where the water is going, and frameless shower doors have gaps that will allow the water to escape if the spray is pointed or deflected directly at a small gap between panels.
Frameless Shower Doors Are More Modern
That being said, if you are remodeling a master bathroom or a main bathroom, frameless shower doors will add much more of a wow factor. If your goal is to update and upgrade, frameless is the way to go. Additionally, if your shower enclosure has detailed tile work, as many newer enclosures do, the frameless shower doors will be the best choice to show off its beauty.
One other thing to consider is that frameless shower doors will make your bathroom look bigger. They let in more light and don’t create the visual barrier that framed shower doors do. If you are trying to update a small or dark bathroom, it may be worth the money to go with frameless shower doors. While we’re on the subject of small bathroom spaces, you may be interested to learn about the no-tub trend in bathroom remodeling. You may have more room available than you think!
It Comes Down to Beauty Vs. Budget
So that’s our best advice. Carefully consider what you are trying to accomplish and the budget you have to work with. If beautiful, modern, or sophisticated are your goals, go frameless. If practical and affordable are your goals, a framed or semi-frameless shower door may be your best bet. Here are some other considerations when choosing a shower door: How to choose a shower door in 5 easy steps. If you’re not sure, visit our showroom where you can see examples of both kinds of shower doors. Our shower door experts can help you decide which one is right for your bathroom and budget. We can also design and install a custom shower for you. When it comes to shower door installation, Janssen Glass & Door is the place to call.
Janssen Glass has been serving the Kansas City area since 1984. When it comes to custom glass projects, whether residential or commercial, we are the glass company to call. We have a custom glass shop with experienced craftsmen and designers on staff to create whatever you need. If you need help with a new construction project, a remodel, or a replacement, Janssen can match it perfectly.