What sets the mood for your brand new bath? A neatly installed, fresh-looking shower. But we're not just talking about a simple shower, we're talking about a shower enclosure that adds a sophisticated appeal to your bathroom.
It is "the" major feature of your restroom, something that is both functional and aesthetic. With the right pick – and the right type of experts on the job – a sleek and stylish shower enclosure can turn even the most dull bathrooms into a refreshing space.
But for a relaxing shower experience every time, you have to ensure the right pick. And, with so many options at hand, how do you pick the best one? That's what this guide is for: to help you pick the right shower enclosure for your bathroom with the right tips and ideas.
Why is Choosing the Right Shower Enclosure Important?
One of the first things to understand is that shower enclosure is a major feature of any bathroom. It will stop watering from seeping on to the rest of the bathroom floor. However, it will also add a touch of sophisticated, unique aesthetic appeal to the overall appearance of your bathroom.
Moreover, it will help you maximize the functionality of the bathroom space. You can space out the shower area and make it easier to designate other areas for different purposes, like a sink and cabinets with toiletries.
Not only that, if poorly chosen, the shower enclosure could mean a list of troubles. For instance, poor fitting can lead to leaks in the bathroom which is one of the common reasons behind major damages.
Similarly, the wrong one often gives that "cramped" feeling and might even lead to safety issues. And lastly, the wrong style of shower enclosure? A bad aesthetic factor that clashes with the bathroom theme.
How to Choose the Best One?
What's the best way to pick the right shower enclosure? It has to do with a few factors, starting with the budget and style preferences. You can't pick the most stylish option and ignore the functional needs of your bathroom.
You also have to consider the bathroom layout, the overall aesthetic theme, and the maintenance requirements. But, to help you make the selection process smoother, we shortlisted a few important factors for consideration.
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Size and Layout
Here, our advice is simple – only go for a more spacious and luxurious shower enclosure in your bathroom if there's ample space. If it's limited and the layout is a bit complex, go for inline or corner shower enclosures. -
Door Type
Do you have enough room to swing open the shower door? Well, if not, there are other options too. You can go for sliding doors and bi-fold doors. Apart from those two, hinged doors are also the most common options for door mechanisms. -
Budget
One more thing – setting a realistic budget should be the first thing on your to-do list for a bathroom renovation. And no, it's not just the shower enclosure cost. You have to include the professional consultation, installation, and maintenance costs too. -
Design Style
Lastly, take your time to consider what details and finishes you want. Do you want a sleek and minimalist look? Do you want something that is more maximalist, a bit more sophisticated? It's helpful if you consider a few samples and portfolios from your chosen professionals.
What Are the Different Types of Shower Enclosures?
Well, there are few different types of enclosures you'll find in the market. You will find each one suitable for a variety of bathroom spaces – and styles. But we'll help you pick from the most common and aesthetically sophisticated ones.
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Inline Shower Enclosure
It is one of the most popular choices, primarily because it suits bathrooms with limited spaces. Usually, it comes with a single panel and a door (hinged). And, it works best against a flat wall, so an inline shower enclosure might be it if space-saving is what you're going for.
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Neo Angle Shower Enclosure
Next, we have the neo angle. It is a great option if you have a corner space in your bathroom because the unique shape with five-sided design works remarkably in corner settings. Also, you can maximize the corner space with ample room to stack a few shelves and toiletries alongside a modern shower system.
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90-Degree Shower Enclosure
As the name suggests, this is designed for a 90-degree corner in your bathroom. With a clean and angular design, it doesn't get more sophisticated than that when you're maximizing limited space in a tight bathroom. Also, you can browse for different glass panels and hinged door options for smooth access.
Selecting the Right Materials for Your Shower Enclosure
Among many things, some homeowners forget that there are several material types to consider for shower enclosures. For instance, glass is a popular choice for its transparency and "modern" appeal. But there are other options too!
Glass Materials
- Tempered Glass – It is a strong, durable, and safe option that is a popular choice for most shower enclosures. And, it has a high resistance to impact which also makes it a go-to for both framed and frameless designs.
- Frosted Glass vs. Clear Glass – If privacy is a priority, you can go for frosted glass. It keeps things private while still letting light flow through. On the other hand, clear glass will add a sense of openness and airiness to the space. As a result, it will make your bathroom feel larger.
- Ultra-Clear Glass vs. Standard Glass – Ultra-clear glass offers a premium and high-end aesthetic with less distortion. So, that makes it a perfect choice if you want to elevate the luxury feel of your bathroom. Conversely, standard glass is a more cost-effective choice that will give you durability but with a slightly less refined look.
Frame Materials
- Aluminum Alloy – They are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and durable. The aluminum frames are great for budget-friendly and reliable enclosures. Plus, they are resistant to the moisture in bathrooms which makes them a good choice for longevity.
- Stainless Steel – These are popular for its strength and long-lasting durability. Additionally, steel is a premium frame material because of its robustness. And, it offers a sleek and modern look that can stand the test of time.
Matching Your Shower Enclosure with Your Home Decor
We advise you to choose a shower enclosure that matches your bathroom theme. Consider this: you have a modern, minimalist bathroom. Should you go for a plastic or polycarbonate option? Maybe, if budget is an issue.
Proper Installation and Maintenance Are Equally Important
Finally, we would recommend going for professional installation. With a team of experts at your side, you can make sure the shower enclosure selection – the whole process – is smooth.
Conclusion
So, is it overwhelming to choose the best shower enclosure for your bathroom? Yes, but only if you use the wrong tips and ideas. With the strategy discussed in the blog post above, you can work your way to the best options in the market.
To pick the perfect one, consider a few important factors – like your bathroom theme, overall style preference, functionality needs, price, space, and finally, the professionals helping you with it. You can choose the finest options, ranging from the neo angle to the 90-degree shower enclosure.
And remember, proper installation and maintenance are just as important. so, follow these tips and enjoy your new shower enclosure for the years to come!
