How to Choose the Right Shower Enclosure for Your Bathroom

Choosing the right shower enclosure can transform your bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary. With so many options available, it is important to consider your space, style, and budget before making a decision.

Measure Your Space First

Before browsing shower enclosures, measure your bathroom carefully. Note the position of windows, doors, and plumbing. A common mistake is falling in love with a product before checking whether the door swing will work in the space. For bathrooms under 1.5m wide, a sliding or bifold door is almost always the right choice.

Types of Shower Enclosure

Quadrant enclosures fit neatly into a corner with curved glass doors, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms. Walk-in enclosures offer a luxurious, open feel and suit larger spaces where a full wetroom look is the goal. Sliding door enclosures are a solid all-rounder for medium-sized bathrooms where a hinged door is not practical.

Glass Thickness

Standard glass thickness is 6mm, which is perfectly adequate for most installations. For a more premium feel, 8mm or 10mm glass adds substance and is noticeably easier to clean. Thicker glass also tends to come with better coatings that repel limescale and soap residue.

Frame or Frameless?

Frameless enclosures look sleek and modern and are the current favourite for contemporary bathrooms, though they carry a higher price tag. Semi-framed options give a good balance of style and value. Fully framed enclosures are the most affordable and straightforward to install, making them a smart choice for rental properties or tighter budgets.

Things to Check Before You Buy

Always verify the wall profile is suitable for your tile thickness, check whether waste and tray are included, and confirm the hinge direction. Most returns on shower enclosures come down to one of these three things being overlooked.