Framed vs. Frameless Shower Door

Are you searching for the perfect shower door option for your home renovation or your new home? Regardless of what your plans are, it is very important to find the right shower door for your home and your budget. If you need help choosing what the best fit is for your needs, our professionals at Hiegel Glass are here to help! 

When you are first researching glass shower doors to find what you want, you will be choosing between framed and frameless shower doors. If you are wondering what both of these glass shower door options are and the benefits to each of these, keep reading!

What are Framed Shower Doors?

A framed glass shower door enclosure consists of framing around each panel and the door opening. Framed shower doors are much more cost-effective than frameless shower doors and are also much easier to install. The frame around the shower doors provides strength and stability at an affordable price because complex mounting systems are not required. Although it is still recommended that you hire a professional, it is possible to install framed shower doors by yourself. 

Benefits of Framed Shower Doors

Here is a list of some of the benefits of having framed glass shower doors: 

  • Provides Stability – The aluminum frame around these glass shower doors help to steady the door, as well as reduce the risk of it shattering. 
  • Easy Installation – Unlike frameless shower doors, framed glass shower doors are much easier to install. All you have to do is hang up the frame, which can fit over any type of shower material. 
  • Keeps in More Water – This type of glass shower door is less susceptible to leak over time because they contain a track that traps water. The design of a framed glass door keeps the shower spray inside the shower. 
  • More Cost Effective – Framed shower door installation typically cost 10 to 15% less than a frameless shower door. 

What are Frameless Shower Doors?

Frameless glass shower doors have minimal framing, allowing for the clearest view into your shower. This provides an open and airy look, while giving a sleek and minimalistic feel. Unlike framed glass shower doors, they do not need metal support to function. If you are looking to show off your custom shower, a frameless shower door setup will allow you to do that in style. It is highly advised that you have a professional install any frameless shower doors to prevent improper installation, damages to the glass, and injuries. 

Benefits of Frameless Shower Doors

Here are some of the benefits of having frameless glass shower doors: 

  • Easy to Clean – Unlike traditional framed glass door showers, these shower doors are much easier to clean because they do not have any grooves or hardware for dirt or mold to collect. Grab a squeegee and you’ll be done cleaning in no time!
  • Less Mold & Corrosion – Unlike with framed shower doors, you will no longer have to deal with water collecting under the door’s seals because there is no metal frame and minimal hardware. This reduces the risk of mold and mildew forming in your shower. 
  • Easily Customizable – Traditional shower doors are mass-produced in standard sizes; however, frameless glass shower doors are full customizable to fit the needs of you home and budget!
  • More Open Space – Frameless shower doors are a fantastic option if you are looking to open up more space in your bathroom. Although these shower doors do not physically increase the size of the space, the lack of a bulky frame leaves the area feeling more open and airier.

Contact Hiegel Glass for All of Your Shower Door Needs

As you can imagine, it is also extremely important that you choose your glass door supplier carefully. Poorly installed glass shower doors are not safe and do not last long. It is best to have a professional install the shower doors so that it is safely and properly installed. Lucky for you, our professional glaziers at Hiegel Glass have years of experience installing glass shower doors and can help you find the best high-quality frameless shower enclosure for your budget. Call our office today to schedule your appointment today!

Contact Us for a Free Inspection and Estimate

Single pane, double pane, standard, or custom – no job is too big or too small for our team! Our friendly window and glass professionals will happily come to your home to inspect your windows, take professional measurements, and provide you with an estimate of what it will cost to replace your window – or every window in your house! Contact us today to schedule your free inspection!