Frameless Showers: The Clear Choice for a Modern Look
 Over
the last few decades, shower doors have replaced old-fashioned curtains
as the most popular bath design. Now, a new variation is making its rise
on the remodeling market. Frameless showers, which lack the metallic
seams and tracks of traditional shower doors, are one of the newest
features in modern bathroom design. These transparent showers create a
unique, open feel ideal for those who want to create a contemporary
bathroom.
Some people might be wary of a frameless glass shower for fear it might
cut hands or shatter. However, these designs are crafted for everyday
use. In fact, all models must pass safety inspections before they can be
put on the market. Thus, all edges are smoothly filed to prevent cuts
when opening the unframed doors. Furthermore, these showers are made of
tempered glass to prevent cracking and shattering.
 Frameless
showers are composed of tempered glass that is roughly half an inch
thick. Most models have doors that open and shut on hinges, and can be
accented with decorative handles. However, some designs do feature
sliding capabilities. If you prefer a sliding door, be aware that
frameless glass can be chipped or damage if slid into a wall. Both
options can also be accented with decorative towel bars or robe hooks to
match your other bathroom fixtures.
A frameless shower can make your bathroom appear larger and more open.
Additionally, it seamlessly integrates the shower space into your
overall room design. When well-maintained and cleaned, frameless showers
are virtually invisible. This allows you to prominently display
decorative tile work in your shower. Clear glass can also be
supplemented with etched designs or tinting depending on your tastes.
If the idea of a transparent shower has you concerned about privacy, you
may want to consider one of the most popular trends in frameless shower
design; kneewalls. Kneewalls are low walls placed on the sides of the
shower. They come to approximately waist height and merge seamlessly
into the rest of the bathroom walls. Another option is to choose a
frosted glass design, which is less transparent than clear or tinted
glass.
 You
do not need to purchase an entirely new bath unit to add a frameless
shower to your bathroom. Frameless showers can be designed to fit
existing combined tub/shower models as well as free-standing showers.
These features can even be curved to suit corner showers. Once
installed, frameless showers are easy to maintain and unlikely to break.
Unlike framed shower doors, which can collect mold in crevices or become
dislocated from their track, frameless showers have few cleaning and
maintenance problems. They do need to be wiped with a basic glass
cleaner. However, since most models come with a protective,
stain-resistant coating, cleaning is actually quite simple.
Many professionals are qualified to install a frameless shower. However,
it is also possible to install a frameless shower yourself. If you
choose to go this route, be sure you are well-equipped to handle the
project. Frameless doors are slightly more difficult to install than
traditional framed models. This is due, in part, to their heavier
weight. Keep this in mind since an incorrectly installed shower can
cause leaks, which lead to mildew and water damage.
 The
concept of the frameless shower originated in Europe, and the trend has
spread quickly to countless home bathrooms. Frameless showers provide a
touch of sheer elegance to a modern bathroom design. They come in all
standard shower sizes or can be custom designed to suit your specific
bath. So, if you are looking to create a contemporary bathroom, consider
choosing a frameless shower for your remodeling project. |
