Best-Rated Shower Doors for Bathtub Conversions
Installing a shower door on a bathtub can provide homeowners with an upgraded, elegant bathroom look and improved functionality. Shower doors keep water splashes inside the tub during showers, unlike shower curtains which can billow out. They also have a more clean, sleek aesthetic compared to a curtain. When considering shower doors for a bathtub, homeowners have several factors to weigh, from materials and styles to proper installation and maintenance.
With key information on measuring, costs, maintenance, and safety, homeowners can make an informed decision when converting their tub into a shower.
Types of Shower Doors for Bathtubs
There are several main configurations of shower doors that work for bathtub conversions:
- Sliding shower doors are a popular, space-saving option. Bypass slider doors have panels that slide along the same plane, while single slider doors have one stationary panel and one sliding panel.
- Hinged shower doors are attached to a side jamb with hinges. They can swing either inwards or outwards.
- Pivot shower doors have hinges mounted top and bottom so the door swivels open and closed.
- Neo-angle shower doors are ideal for angled tub corners. The door is hinged to swing open into the bathroom.
Sliding Shower Doors
Sliding or bypass shower doors are a top choice for bathtub conversions. The sliding panels conserve space in the bathroom by eliminating the need for any swing clearance. Bypass sliders have two panels that slide alongside each other, while single sliders have one stationary panel and one sliding panel.
Look for sliding doors with a high quality roller system for smooth gliding. Tempered glass and watertight seals are also important. Sliding doors can be installed on tile, fiberglass or acrylic surrounds. For a modern, clean look, opt for frameless sliders.
Hinged Shower Doors
Hinged shower doors are another option for tubs. They are attached to the side jamb with hinges and swing either inward or outward to open and close. Inward opening doors conserve space, while outward opening allows for easier access.
Hinged doors require a side jamb for stability and something to attach the hinges to. Look for reinforced hinges, preferably made from stainless steel. Tempered glass, watertight seals, and drip strips are essential features.
Pivot Shower Doors
Pivot shower doors have an upper and lower pivot hinge so the entire door swivels open and closed. This style provides easy access without requiring additional clearance space. The hinges are mounted on a side jamb.
High quality pivot hinges that allow smooth opening are key. Glass thickness of at least 3/8" is recommended to support the weight of the door. Like other shower doors, water-tightness and durability are important.
Neo-Angle Shower Doors
For bathtubs with an angled corner, neo-angle shower doors are designed specifically to fit. The angled door swings into the bathroom on hinges to conserve space. The frame and panels are cut to match the tub's dimensions.
Neo-angle doors should be precisely measured and cut for an accurate fit. Hinges, seals, and glass quality factor into the look and performance. This style has a clean, modern profile.
Materials for Shower Doors
Shower doors are primarily constructed from glass, acrylic, metal and composite materials. The material affects the appearance, durability, and cost of the door.
Glass Shower Doors
Glass is the most popular shower door material due to its sleek, elegant look. The most common types of glass include:
- Clear glass: Provides no distortion or obscurity, just a clean look.
- Obscure glass: Etched or textured glass that provides privacy.
- Tinted glass: Available in colors like bronze, grey, or blue for added style.
Tempered safety glass is required for all glass shower doors. Maintenance is easy with regular cleaning. Glass thickness is typically 1/4" or 3/8".
Acrylic Shower Doors
Doors made of acrylic sheets are lighter weight and more flexible than glass. Acrylic can mimic the look of glass at a lower cost, but scratches more easily. Acrylic doors need to be at least 1/2" thick for durability.
Metal Shower Doors
Metal shower doors are very durable and resistant to damage. Stainless steel, aluminum, and wrought iron are common options. Metal often serves as the frame for glass doors. Metal requires regular cleaning and polishing to avoid corrosion and minerals.
Composite Shower Doors
Some doors combine materials such as aluminum and acrylic or glass and resin. Composite doors blend the properties of different materials for aesthetics, durability and affordability.
Key Features of Shower Doors
When selecting a shower door for your bathtub, there are several key features to evaluate:
Frameless vs Framed
Frameless shower doors have a sleek, clean, contemporary look. They are just panels of glass without a metal frame surrounding them. Framed doors have more of a traditional styling with a metal frame enclosing panels of glass, acrylic or other materials.
Handle Styles
Handles range from simple towel bars to latch pulls to knob handles. Finish and styling should complement your bathroom decor. Placement of handles ranges from glass panels to door frames.
Glass Thickness and Safety
Tempered safety glass at least 1/4" thick is required. 3/8" glass is ideal for durability and preventing flexing. Obscure and etched textured glass provide privacy.
Watertight Seals
High quality vinyl seals between the door panels and frames keep water contained. Magnetic strips also help block water from escaping.
Adjustability
Doors that allow some adjustability make for an easier, customized fit. Look for slide bars or hinges that allow adjustments.
Easy To Clean
Minimal tracks and grooves make doors easier to wipe down. Glass doors are very simple to clean and maintain.
Top Brands of Shower Doors
Established brands known for quality shower doors include:
Kohler
High-end styles and premium materials with coords to match their fixtures.
DreamLine
Affordable, modern, and easy to install shower doors and enclosures.
Delta
Wide range of styles from affordable to contemporary luxe designs.
American Standard
Classic to contemporary looks made with quality materials.
Sterling
Focus on seamless designs and innovative shower spaces.
When comparing brands, look at quality of materials, range of styles, price points, warranty coverage, and overall customer reviews.
Measuring and Fitting Shower Doors
Atailored, accurate fit is key to proper shower door installation and performance. There are a few factors to address:
Measure Carefully
Take very precise measurements of your tub opening's width, height, and depth. Account for any out of square angles.
Check for Plumb
Use a level to determine if your walls are perfectly plumb. Out of plumb walls affect clearance.
Custom or Standard Sized
Stock doors save costs, but custom doors are made to your exact measurements.
Professional Installation
Hiring a pro ensures proper installation. Follow all manufacturer guidelines.
Costs of Shower Doors
Prices for shower doors vary based on:
Materials
Frameless glass doors are the most expensive while acrylic and composite cost less.
Labor
Hiring a professional for installation adds labor costs.
Return on Investment
Despite the initial expense, shower doors can greatly improve your bath's functionality and ambiance.
Maintenance and Cleaning
To keep shower doors looking pristine:
Daily Cleaning
Use gentle cleaners and soft rags to wipe down doors. Rinse soap residue after showering.
Prevent Soap Scum Buildup
Use an after-shower squeegee on glass doors to prevent water spots and mineral deposits.
Apply Anti-Fog Coatings
Special sprays and wipes can be used to prevent glass fogging up.
Care for Hinges and Seals
Keep hinges lubricated and check that seals are intact. Replace worn or damaged seals.
Safety Considerations
When choosing shower doors, keep these safety factors in mind:
Tempered Glass
Tempering makes glass more resistant to breaking and shattering.
Water Tight Seals
Quality seals prevent leaks that could damage walls or floors.
Textured Surfaces
Textured or etched glass improves traction and slip resistance.
Easy Accessibility
Doors that safely glide or swing open easily are ideal for all ages.
Quality Materials
Durable, sturdy doors made from thick glass or composite materials last.
Reviews of Top-Rated Brands
Here are reviews for some best selling shower door styles:
DreamLine SlimLine Bypass
This frameless bypass slider door features smooth gliding and an affordable price point. The sleek panels make the most of limited space without sacrificing style.
Delta Linden Single Slider
The crisp styling and curved handle give this single slider door an elegant, polished look. Quality construction and easy installation.
Sterling Ensemble hinged door
This neo-angle hinged door has solid brass handles and hinges with a beautiful oil-rubbed bronze finish. It opens smoothly and fits angled openings.
When selecting doors, balance affordability with quality materials and appealing aesthetics that enhance your bath decor.
FAQs on Shower Doors
What are common installation challenges?
Out of plumb walls and inadequate framing around tubs can complicate installation. Hiring a professional is recommended.
How do I fix leaks and foggy glass?
Check for damage to seals and replace worn seals. Use anti-fog sprays or coatings to prevent condensation.
What if my glass door breaks?
Contact the manufacturer, as many offer warranties on breakage. Only professionals should replace broken glass.
Should I custom order or get standard sizes?
For tubs with unique sizes, custom doors are best. Otherwise, standard sizes cost less and still fit most tubs.
The right shower door can take your bathtub from basic to beautiful. Keep in mind key factors like materials, styles, proper fit, easy maintenance, and safety when selecting doors.
Investing in shower doors is a big upgrade. Not only do they corral water spray, but they give bathrooms a more refined, cleaner look. With many affordable and high-end styles available, there are shower doors to match any design and budget.