Choosing the right shower enclosure is more than just a design choice—it affects how your bathroom looks, feels, and functions. With so many styles available, from sleek frameless designs to space-saving corner units, it can be tricky to know which one best suits your space. Let’s break down the different shower enclosure styles, their pros and cons, and help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your bathroom.
Frameless Shower Enclosures
If you’re after a modern and minimalist look, a frameless shower enclosure is an excellent choice. These enclosures use thick glass panels without bulky metal framing, creating a seamless and open feel.
Pros:
- Makes the bathroom appear larger and brighter.
- Easy to clean with no metal frames to collect dirt and grime.
- Adds a touch of luxury and elegance.
Cons:
- More expensive than framed options due to thicker glass.
- Requires professional installation for stability.
Best suited for: Contemporary bathrooms with a clean, open aesthetic. To explore different styles of enclosures, go to Plumbworld.
Framed Shower Enclosures
Framed shower enclosures feature metal frames around the glass panels, providing extra stability. They’re a more traditional option that remains popular due to their affordability and durability.
Pros:
- Sturdy and cost-effective.
- Available in a variety of finishes to match bathroom décor.
- Easier to install than frameless models.
Cons:
- Can appear bulkier, which may not suit modern designs.
- Metal frames require regular cleaning to prevent mould and limescale build-up.
Best suited for: Traditional and practical bathroom layouts where durability is a priority.
Semi-Frameless Shower Enclosures
A semi-frameless shower enclosure offers a balance between the sleek appearance of a frameless model and the affordability of a framed one. Some edges will have discreet framing, but the overall look is still modern.
Pros:
- Less expensive than fully frameless enclosures.
- Provides a contemporary look with some structural support.
- Available in various styles, including sliding and hinged doors.
Cons:
- Still has some visible framing, which may not be ideal for those wanting a completely minimalist design.
Best suited for: Homeowners who want a stylish but cost-effective shower enclosure.
Walk-In Shower Enclosures
A walk-in shower enclosure provides an open and spacious design, often without doors, for a spa-like experience. These enclosures are becoming increasingly popular in modern bathrooms.
Pros:
- Highly accessible, making them ideal for all ages.
- Easy to maintain with fewer parts to clean.
- Creates a luxurious, high-end look.
Cons:
- Water may splash outside the designated shower area.
- Requires a larger bathroom to work effectively.
Best suited for: Spacious bathrooms and anyone looking for a modern, open-concept shower.
Corner Shower Enclosures
If space is limited, a corner shower enclosure is a fantastic solution. Designed to fit snugly into the corner of your bathroom, these enclosures help maximise floor space.
Pros:
- Perfect for small bathrooms and en-suites.
- Comes in various shapes, including quadrant and square designs.
- Saves space without sacrificing functionality.
Cons:
- Can feel slightly confined compared to larger enclosures.
- Limited door styles available.
Best suited for: Small bathrooms or guest en-suites where space is a priority.
Sliding Door Shower Enclosures
A sliding door shower enclosure is designed for bathrooms where space is limited. Instead of opening outwards, the door slides along a track, making it a practical and stylish choice.
Pros:
- Saves space by eliminating the need for a swinging door.
- Works well in both large and small bathrooms.
- Modern and sleek appearance.
Cons:
- Door tracks can accumulate dirt and require regular cleaning.
- Slightly more expensive than hinged door options.
Best suited for: Small to medium-sized bathrooms where door clearance is an issue.
How to Ensure Success When Buying Bathroom Supplies Online
Understand the Delivery
Always make sure that you know the situation with delivery before ordering. For example, there are some suppliers that will offer free delivery, which can help you to stick to your budget. Then, there are others that are focused on giving you fast delivery, which can ensure your project runs to plan. The key is to know what type of service you’re getting before you place your order. This avoids any bad surprises.
Use a Lowest Price Guarantee
It’s recommended to order from a bathroom supplier that offers you a lowest price guarantee. Just as the name suggests, you can ensure you’re getting the best price online for what you need. But, in order to benefit from this, you actually have to use it. This means that you should shop around and see what the deals are elsewhere. If you do come across a lower price, don’t hesitate to contact the team and tell them. This is what the guarantee is there for.
Look for Long Returns
Perhaps you’re undertaking a project and don’t know what supplies you really want. You might order a bunch of them to see what’s going to be best for your bathroom. If this is what you want to do, it’s recommended that you search for a supplier with long returns. This allows you to get your money back for anything you don’t use and you won’t be in a rush when renovating. You can take your time and send the items back when you’re ready.
Utilise the Sale
One of the first places you should look for bathroom supplies is in the sale. Why pay full price when you might get a quality item discounted? Take a look at the offers and promotions to see if this will suit your project. You might be surprised what you can find if you remain open-minded about brands and designs.
Conclusion
A shower enclosure isn’t just a practical necessity—it plays a big role in your bathroom’s overall style and functionality. Whether you prefer the sleekness of a frameless design, the practicality of a sliding door, or the space-saving benefits of a corner unit, there’s a perfect option for every bathroom. Take the time to assess your space, budget, and design preferences, and you’ll find the right shower enclosure to enhance your home.
