Framed vs Frameless Shower Enclosures
One of the biggest decisions you make when remodeling a bathroom is choosing between a framed or frameless shower enclosure. Either choice can be a good one as long as you are aware that there are several factors to consider.
What is the Difference?
Framed shower enclosures are the more traditional choice. You will recognize them by the metal frame that goes completely around the glass and along the top and bottom of the door. The is coated with a choice of a bronze, silver, or gold color.
Frameless shower enclosures do not have a metal frame and they may or may not have a top metal rail. They are held together with clips and hinges.
Both types of shower enclosures offer tempered glass that is clear, opaque, or patterned. Frameless shower require a thicker glass.
Framed Glass Enclosures Pros and Con
Traditional framed glass showers are a great way to upgrade your bathroom’s look from a shower curtain. They are sturdy and probably the better choice if you have children or tenants that may not always be careful when shutting the door.
Framed Glass Pros:
Fully Sealed: Framed glass shower doors are less likely to leak because the watertight design of a framed glass door keeps shower spray inside the shower. They contain a track that traps water which has both a layer of caulk and a metal frame to protect against spilling.
More Stable: While any glass shower door can be made from tempered glass (which breaks off in small pieces rather than dangerous shards), the frame around the door adds extra strength.
Variety of Frame Options: Sliding or pivot doors are both options. Both metal color and glass looks are available.
Less Cost: Framed glass doors are less costly to install and the glass may be less money as it can be thinner than frameless doors.
Framed Glass Cons:
Harder to Clean: Soap scum and dirt can get embedded along the shower frame.
Aluminum Frame May Not Age Well: The metal frame may corrode over time.
Limited Motion: Framed doors only open outward which can be a space issue.
Outdated Design: Framed doors tend to age a bathroom as more modern bathrooms have frameless shower doors
Frameless Shower Enclosures
Unlike framed glass shower doors, frameless shower doors do not need metal support to function. They are known for a clean, modern appearance and can show off beautiful tilework or other features.
Frameless Glass Pros
Customizable: Frameless glass show enclosures are available in several sizes and configurations so it will always looks custom
Wide motion hinges: Frameless doors will swing both inward and outward which may be helpful in smaller spaces
Easier to clean: Without the metal frame catching soap scum and dirt, frameless shower enclosures are easier to keep spotless
Easier to repair: With fewer component parts, you may not need to replace anything but if you do, they are all readily accessible
Frameless Glass Cons
Price: Frameless shower doors cost more than framed shower doors
Instability: Without the frame to stabilize the glass, frameless shower doors can be less stable. To counteract this, most frameless doors have thicker glass (hence the higher price)
Leaking: Frameless doors are not sealed tight so there is more of a chance of water leaking out than with framed doors
Installation
Both framed and frameless doors should be installed by professionals. Framed door installation can be less time consuming since the glass is thinner and the frame makes installation easier. Frameless doors take more time because they must be perfectly level and the hinges installed individually.
See Why Southington Glass Company Is Your Best Option
For over 60 years, Southington Glass Company has provide a variety of glass products to enhance your home and business. Call us at 860-628-2438, visit our website at www.southingtonglass.com or come see us at our showroom at 416 North Main St. Southington, CT to view a quality selection and advice on shower and tub enclosures, custom glass and mirror products, windows and more.