Why Choose a Glass Shower Screen?

As the name suggests, a shower screen has a practical duty to prevent water from spraying all over the bathroom when the shower is in use. While it must deliver on this function first and foremost, there are lots of different shower screen designs on the market today so you won’t have to compromise on style.

Whether you are redesigning your entire bathroom or you are just looking to replace your current shower screen, this article will look at why glass surpasses alternative options, such as shower curtains, so you can make an informed decision.

Why choose a glass shower screen?

Customisation

Whichever type of shower enclosure you have – a corner shower, walk-in shower, recessed shower or over-bath shower – the versatility of glass means that it can be specially cut so it is fit for purpose in the correct size and shape required. With hinged, sliding, folding or fixed shower screens available, along with both single and double panel designs, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Glass also offers unparalleled customisation options when it comes to the colour, pattern and finish, so it can be adapted to suit your needs and tastes – you even have the choice of sandblasted or frosted glass to improve privacy during use.

In comparison, there aren’t the same customisation options afforded to shower curtains as there are for glass, so you are more limited. However, they can be easily replaced when you want to switch up the style in your bathroom and go for a different design, although this can end up being rather costly over time.

Space

The beauty of glass is that it can instantly open up a room and make it feel brighter, giving the illusion of a larger space. Typically one of the smallest rooms in the house, bathrooms can benefit massively from having glass features to make its interior look bigger without having to change the layout.

When it comes to shower curtains, they can make the room appear darker and smaller when they are pulled closed. Choosing a curtain that is white or clear in colour can replicate a similar illusion as glass, although it can end up looking rather plain and basic.

Manufacture

The glass used for shower screens will be tempered or toughened to withstand changes in temperature during use. Not only that, if for some reason the shower screen suffers a breakage, the glass will safely shatter into small pieces.

The more flimsy structure of shower curtains means they are easier to break if they are tugged on too hard, and they have a tendency to blow inward and cling to the person showering when in use. While there are accessories available to help stop this from happening – such as weights – they come at an additional cost and aren’t a guaranteed solution.

When it comes to glass, framed and frameless options are available, both of which are completely safe when manufactured and fitted properly. Careful consideration must be paid to the wall fixings used when fitting the glass to ensure it is securely attached to your wall, floor, tiles or other glass panels.
It’s also important to take into account the glass thickness. Simply put, the thicker the glass, the safer and more hardwearing it will be. A glass expert will be able to advise you on which thickness is most suitable for your application.

Maintenance

As one of the most-used areas in the home, a low maintenance, hygienic shower screen in the bathroom is paramount. Looking after glass couldn’t be easier – a quick spritz of bathroom cleaner, rinse of water and rub with a sponge will remove any excess soap and grime on the surface. Partner this with a wipe using a squeegee after every shower and there you have it, job done!

The wipe-clean qualities of glass make it a hygienic alternative to a shower curtain which easily attracts bacteria. Although curtains are relatively cheap to buy, they will need replacing regularly due to mould and mildew growth which can end up being costly.

Leaks

As mentioned above, glass can be bespokely cut so it is made to fit the exact measurements of the shower enclosure. As such, the chance of water leaks is significantly lower as everything is contained.
With shower curtains, the risk of leaks is much higher as the water can splash outside of the curtain material more easily. While measures can be taken to help prevent this – such as suction cups and liners – they are not the perfect fit and so your bathroom floor and other fittings may experience some water damage.

Does a glass shower screen add value to your home?

A quality bathroom suite and accessories are definitely a bonus for buyers, making a glass shower screen a desirable feature for many homeowners. The opulence of glass will always outshine alternative shower screen options and buyers will acknowledge the extra time and effort that has been put into the interior design of the space.

With so many benefits and options available, it’s no wonder why glass shower screens are so popular. If you are looking for high quality glass shower screens in the Nottingham area, look no further than Lee Glass and Glazing. Our premium products and precision installations are second to none – simply get in touch with us today to find out more or to arrange an appointment.