A bathroom renovation is the most popular type of home improvement, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) 2019 Remodeling Impact Report. Not only do bathroom remodels raise a home’s value, but many people also love unwinding and relaxing in their bathroom after a long day.
If you’re getting ready to design the bathroom of your dreams, selecting a shower screen that is functional and fits with your space is an important step. This is because shower screens provide elegance and style to shower areas. Also, they help keep you safe.
To assist you with choosing a shower screen to install in your bathroom, here are some factors you should consider before making your final choice.
Determine Your Budget
Ensure you assess your budget before deciding on a shower screen. This may seem like an obvious thing to do, but often, people forget to consider this vital step. Splurging on the most expensive shower screen is not a good idea if, realistically, you can’t afford it. Remember to be realistic about your budget, whatever it is, and don’t sway from it.
Size of Bathroom
The amount of space you have to work with is important to consider when designing your bathroom because some shower screen features can make an area appear smaller than it is. If you have a small bathroom, consider choosing a clear glass shower screen, as it will give the illusion of extra space. Also, frameless shower screens are a good idea for small bathrooms because they don’t have any large attachments that highlight limited spaces. If your bathroom is large, you can opt for a tinted or frosted glass enclosure. These screens do not affect the proportions of the room.
Type of Shower Screens
Shower screens have a variety of designs. Below are some different types of shower screens.
Frameless: Frameless shower screens are supported by hinges and U-channel metal rather than a solid frame that circumvents the entire shower. Their sleek, uncluttered lines are aesthetically pleasing to the eye and are suitable for all bathroom sizes and styles.
Semi-frameless: Semi-frameless shower screens have metal around the entire structure, except for the door. This type of shower screen helps keep leakage from a shower enclosure to a minimum.
Nanoclean: Nanoclean shower screens have a material that bonds with the glass around a shower frame. They are easy to clean and don’t require hard scrubbing or the use of harsh chemicals.
Sliding shower screens: If your bathroom doesn’t have room for a swing door, opt for a sliding shower screen to save space. Sliding doors can be customized to fit any shower design and will leave more space for fixtures.
Framed shower screens: Framed shower screens have metal around the entire structure, including the door. They give form and structure to a shower enclosure.
Design Features
No matter what shower screen you decide to go with, make sure the texture and color of it don’t clash with other colors, materials, and fixtures in your bathroom. If you’re unsure of what design features would complement your bathroom, a safe choice would be to opt for neutral or transparent glass.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regardless of what type of shower screen you decide on, regular maintenance and proper cleaning are required. If you choose a shower screen with metal framing or components, be aware that rust can build up over time. For this reason, many people choose either a frameless or a semi-frameless shower screen because they are much easier to clean compared to framed screens.
Choosing a shower screen that best fits your bathroom shouldn’t be complicated, and it certainly won’t take a team of engineers to do it. If you take the time to analyze the above factors thoroughly, it will go a long way in making your bathroom look beautiful and functional, too.
