Bathrooms are often relatively small spaces that have to be highly functional in order to meet your needs. Due to these spatial constraints, the size and placement of each feature in the room has to be carefully considered and none more so than the shower. As the feature that typically defines a bathroom and takes up the largest amount of floor space, showers are frequently used so need to be readily accessible, but their placement should not compromise access to other facilities in the room. In addition to these practical considerations, showers also have the potential to significantly impact the appearance of your bathroom. In light of all of these factors when replacing your shower enclosure the exact type and model that you opt for should be carefully calculated. If you aren’t aware of the different options available we are going to outline them during this article.
A Guide to the Different Types of Shower Enclosures
- Pivot Shower Enclosures – A square shaped enclosure featuring a pivot style door is the most commonly installed type of shower enclosure, with the door swinging outwards to either the left or right.
- Frameless Shower Enclosures – The absence of a frame really allows the shower enclosure to open up your bathroom and make it feel bigger. This is a simple design that is ideal if you are aiming to achieve a modern look and is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
- D Shaped Shower Enclosures- Named due to the shape of the shower tray, D shaped enclosures are relatively compact and often work well when installed in cramped spaces as the curved front edge reduces the amount of floor space taken up without affecting your experience. It’s a simple design and the smooth curves are best complimented by clear glass and a chrome finished frame.
- Bifold Shower Enclosures – Bifold shower enclosures are often installed in bathrooms where efficient use of space is the primary concern as the doors are hinged in the middle, so take up less space as they swing outwards.
- Hinged Shower Enclosures – Are you interested in a shower enclosure that will help you to create a modern style bathroom but are not keen on a frameless enclosure? Hinged shower enclosures could be just the answer and feature a door that swings outwards. The glass panel is often finished off with a chrome pull.
- Sliding Shower Enclosures – Is the space directly in front of your shower restricted? Rather than struggling with a pivot enclosure, choose a sliding enclosure. Not only will you have more room to manoeuvre, but this type of enclosure provides easy access to the shower area and creates a contemporary style environment.
- Shower Cabin Enclosures – If you have a larger budget you could opt for this luxury option, which is typically created from a single piece of moulded acrylic and features a whole range of handy features including a towel rail, a mirror and even a seat, and that’s not even mentioning the soothing shower jets that are built into the design.
Advice to Follow When Deciding on the Perfect Shower Enclosure
While it’s always best to arrange a free consultation with a professional so they can come out to your location and analyse your bathroom for themselves, here are a few important points to consider before making your final decision.
- How much space? – The size of your bathroom will largely dictate the type of shower enclosure that you are able to install. The right choice shouldn’t take up so much space that the rest of the bathroom appears cramped.
- Floor plan? – Which wall will the enclosure be installed on? And will it be installed in a corner or in the centre of a wall. This will affect the shape of the shower closure you can choose.
- Thoughts about glass? – The vast majority of a shower enclosure is constructed from glass so it’s important to get this decision right as this will affect its performance, longevity and appearance.. Be aware that the thicker the glass you select, the more framework/support it will require.
- Tray or tiling? – This is often a matter of preference. Which do you prefer underfoot? However with certain types of enclosures you may be forced to choose a tray since the doors are designed specifically for use with a tray.
- Open left or right handed? – Again this is down to personal preference but the decision will sometimes be made for you owing to the layout of the room. Check to see which way the door would be able to open without being obstructed by other features.
The correct shower enclosure is not always easy to identify and should you require professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact a member of the team at Keystone Home Products Ltd today. We have been operating since 1994 and serve Toronto, Mississauga and Brampton.
