When choosing shower glass for your home, it’s important to balance aesthetics, functionality, and safety. Here are some of
the best methods to select practical and effective shower glass:
1. Glass Thickness
- Standard Thickness: 6mm to 10mm is common for shower glass. Thicker glass (10mm) provides more durability and a high-end look.
- Consider Strength: Thicker glass is ideal for frameless shower enclosures, offering enhanced durability and ease of cleaning. In contrast, thinner glass typically requires additional framing for stability, which can result in more complex cleaning and maintenance issues.
2. Glass Type
- Tempered Glass: Tempered glass is the safest option for shower enclosures, as it meets safety code requirements. In compliance with regulations, all shower glass must be tempered, making it essential for any bathroom installation.
- Frosted Glass: Offers more privacy, especially if the shower is shared.
- Clear Glass: Provides a sleek and modern look, making the bathroom appear more spacious.
3. Coating and Treatment
- Enduroshield: Helps prevent water spots and soap scum build-up. Some glass options come with a hydrophobic coating that repels water.
- Easy-Clean Glass: This reduces the amount of cleaning needed, especially if your water is hard and prone to leaving mineral deposits.
4. Framed vs. Frameless
- Frameless Glass: Offers a modern, minimalistic look and is easier to clean since there are no metal frames to catch dirt and mold.
- Framed Glass: More traditional and often more affordable, but with more components that can deteriorate over time.
5. Consider Safety and Accessibility
- Safety Features: Always prioritize tempered glass and ensure proper installation to avoid risks.
- Accessibility: If accessibility is a concern, opt for a glass design that provides easy entry, such as sliding doors or a wide, hinged door.
6. Customization Options
- Customization: Work with your glass supplier to get custom-sized panels that fit the exact dimensions of your bathroom, ensuring a snug and clean installation.
- Hardware Choices: Choose hardware (hinges, handles, etc.) that complements the glass and fits your bathroom’s aesthetic.
7. Budget
Price vs. Value: While thicker and frameless glass might cost more upfront, it often provides better durability, safety, and appearance. Compare the long-term benefits with your budget.
- Safety First: A common concern about glass railings is safety. Modern glass is incredibly strong and engineered to withstand significant weight. High-quality railings are typically made from tempered glass, which is up to five times stronger than regular glass.
- Customization: Glass railings can be customized to suit any style. Frameless designs offer a clean, modern look, while framed options provide a more traditional feel. You can choose from clear, frosted, or tinted glass to match your décor.
- Maintenance: Glass railings are relatively low-maintenance. A simple cleaning with glass cleaner will keep them looking their best.
At VanGlaze Glass and Mirror, we prioritize all your concerns regarding safety, ease of cleaning, durability, and budget. We also offer a one-year warranty on both installation services and hardware, ensuring peace of mind and long-lasting quality.