Frameless vs Framed Shower Doors: Which Fits Your Bathroom?
By Morgantown Shower Doors
Frameless glass gets most of the attention, but it isn’t the right answer for every bathroom. Here is how the three main types compare.
Frameless
- Heavy tempered glass, usually 3/8 or 1/2 inch, with minimal hardware.
- The cleanest look and the easiest glass to keep clean, since there is no track to collect grime.
- The highest price, and it needs solid walls and a reasonably level curb.
Semi-Frameless
- Thicker glass than a framed door with a lighter partial frame.
- A cleaner look than framed at a moderate price.
Framed
- Thinner glass held in a metal frame, often sliding on a tub.
- The lowest price and very durable, which is why rentals use them.
- The bottom track collects soap scum and needs more cleaning.
How to Choose
- Remodeled primary bath with a walk-in shower: frameless is usually the fit.
- Hall bath or rental with a tub: framed sliding doors are hard to beat on cost.
- Somewhere in between: semi-frameless.
Call for a free estimate and get prices for the options that fit your shower.