Are you renovating or upgrading your bathroom? Great! Have you thought about replacing your old shower curtain with a stylish mirror or glass shower enclosure? It’s the most impactful decision, after all, it’s a matter of your bathroom aesthetics and functionality.
However, deciding between a frameless and a framed shower door is a bit challenging, but we will help you out! Spare a few minutes to read the difference between frameless and framed shower doors and then make your decision.
Frameless Shower Doors
Frameless shower doors are trending because they offer a modern touch and are durable due to their sturdy construction from thick tempered glass (3/8 to 1/2). They are installed with minimal metal visibility, which means they rely on less hardware, such as hinges, handles, and clamps, instead of bulky metal frames for support.
Outcome? A clean, elegant look that maximizes light flow makes your bathroom feel larger and airier.
Benefits of Frameless Shower Doors
Contemporary Aesthetics
Your custom tilework or stone accents will shine through the full glass appearance of frameless shower enclosures. It provides a touch of luxury to any modern bathroom.
Easy Maintenance
They are simple to clean due to a few crevices that collect dust, water marks or soap scum. All the time, your shower area looks well-maintained.
Highly Customizable
The best part of Frameless door designs is that they offer complete flexibility. You can design them according to your preference. They are also available in different glass textures like clear, frosted, and patterned.
More Space Perception
You can get a complete unobstructed view, which can make the bathroom appear larger and brighter. This option is ideal for smaller spaces or minimalist designs.
Considerations for Frameless Shower Enclosures
- The cost is high due to the thicker glass and professional installation requirements.
- To install frameless glass doors, you need to call professionals because they need proper alignment and secure attachment.
- Due to thick, heavier glass, it weighs more, thus, the walls or base of your shower need to be built stronger to hold it.
Framed Shower Doors
Framed shower doors provide a classic and traditional look. Plus, they contain lightweight glass of around 1/4 thickness. They get support from aluminum or stainless steel frames around the edges. Their built-in tracks can keep water inside the shower and stop water leaks. Those who prioritize affordability, durability, and water restriction can prefer this option.
Benefits of Framed Shower Enclosures
Budgeted Option
Framed shower doors are more affordable than frameless options due to the use of thin glass. This has lower manufacturing and installation costs.
Sturdy Construction
The aluminum or stainless steel frame provides extra support to the glass. Framed shower enclosures have less risk of breakage, so they are ideal in a heavy-traffic bathroom.
Wide Variety of Styles
You can get multiple designs of the framed shower doors, such as sliding, pivot, and bi-fold options. Homeowners can choose the style that best suits their bathroom layout.
Easy Installation
If we compare framed with frameless shower doors, these models are simple and quick to install. The metal frame helps align the glass panels and reduce the complexity of installation.
Considerations for Framed Shower Doors
- High chances of mold because the metal frame and tracks can collect water, scum, and moisture.
- The collected water over time can cause the frame to corrode if the coating wears off.
- Framed models have tracks and seals that need proper cleaning and maintenance to control accumulation of soap scum.
- Framed glass doors are bulky and heavy due to the frame and give a traditional look.
- These doors come in standard sizes and designs. You may find it challenging to get a perfect fit for custom-sized showers.
Comparison of Frameless vs. Framed Shower Doors
| Factor | Frameless Shower Doors | Framed Shower Doors |
| Design | Sleek, modern, maximizes space | Traditional, functional |
| Cost | Higher upfront investment | Budget-friendly |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean, no crevices | Requires frame cleaning |
| Durability | Long-lasting with proper care | Prone to frame wear over time |
| Installation | Requires professional precision | Quicker, simpler installation |
Which Option Is Right for You?
You can choose frameless shower doors if you love an elegant, luxurious, airy look and find cleaning a challenge. If you are low on budget, or prefer a traditional design, and can spare the time for maintenance, you can go for a framed shower door.
Choose The Glass Guy PSL for Frameless Shower Door!
If you live in Florida’s Port St. Lucie, Martin County, or Palm Beach, then get the frameless shower doors from The Glass Guy PSL! They offer customized designs of mirrors and glass doors with the facility of installation. The team is professional, honest, and recommends the best solution. They are highly recommended by their customers due to their commitment to excellence.
Ending Note
Both options are great, but the best option depends on your bathroom design, maintenance preferences, and installation requirements before making your decision. If you make the right choice, you will not regret your investment.
We recommend a frameless shower door for all the good reasons, but that does not mean that framed shower doors are not a great option. You can also contact The Glass Guy PSL for expert advice and custom solutions according to your space.