A Guide to Choosing the Right Glass Shower Panel

source: apartmenttherapy.com

A new glass panel is a simple yet transformative addition that can freshen up your bathroom, making it feel brighter, more open, and infinitely more relaxing. Your once cramped and cluttered space can be a serene sanctuary with the help of shower panels. Not only does it add a sleek, modern touch, but it also makes your space feel more expansive and inviting. Read on to discover how to choose the right shower panel to elevate your bathroom into a haven of relaxation and style. 

Warranty

First, look for shower panels in Australia with ample warranty coverage. A solid warranty is a great indicator of the product's quality and durability. Imagine being in the middle of your morning routine, you bump into the panel, and it stands strong without a scratch – a good warranty offers peace of mind. Companies that offer extended warranties of five years or more, are essentially telling you they believe in the strength and longevity of their product. This kind of coverage reassures you that the panels are built to last and can handle the occasional accidental bump. Your shower will remain a beautiful and functional part of your bathroom for years to come. A good warranty is a testament to the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. It’s your guarantee that you don’t need to worry about frequent repairs or replacements. 

Glass Quality

If you're still wondering - How do I choose a glass shower panel? think about the quality and type of glass. All shower should be made with safety glazing to prevent injuries. Tempered glass is the most used material for this purpose. One of its key safety features is that it shatters into small pellets rather than sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury if it breaks. Another safety glazing option is laminated glass, although it's less common for shower doors. It consists of two or more glass layers with a plastic interlayer that holds the glass together if it breaks. However, the high moisture levels in showers can eventually cause issues with the lamination, making tempered glass a more reliable choice. 

Tempered glass is available in many patterns, textures, and colours, providing plenty of options to match your bathroom's style. Frosted glass, for example, offers privacy, while patterned or decorative glass can add a unique touch. Despite these options, clear glass remains the most popular choice as it creates a clean, modern look that makes your bathroom feel more open and spacious. So, when selecting your panel, considering these aspects will help you make an informed and stylish choice. 

Available Space

Ask yourself if changing the layout of your bathroom could enhance its functionality and overall enjoyment. The shower enclosure typically occupies a fixed footprint, so you should consider this when planning your upgrade. If you're happy with your current layout, there are many shower panels in Australia designed to fit into your existing space. This approach can save you from the hassle and expense of relocating other fixtures, which could add cost and time to your project. Choosing a new enclosure that matches the footprint of your existing shower is often the most budget-friendly option. 

However, if you have a flexible budget, you should consider a more extensive renovation. You can significantly enhance your bathroom’s aesthetic and functionality by transforming a tub-and-shower combo into a spacious, walk-in glass enclosure. While this can improve your home’s value, it’s important to remember that it will also require a larger investment of time and money. 

Style

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When selecting shower panels, it's important to consider your bathroom style and how the new enclosure will enhance it. Whether you're drawn to sleek modern designs or more traditional looks, you'll find an option online that complements your space: 

-Bypass shower doors: These function like sliding patio doors and are ideal for tub enclosures. They can feature a stationary panel with a sliding one, or both panels can slide. This type of door is space efficient as it doesn't require extra room to swing open; 

-Sliding, hinged, and pivot doors: Typically used with standalone showers, these doors offer different aesthetic and functional benefits. Sliding doors are great for saving space, while hinged and pivot doors can provide a classic look with easy access; 

-Neo-angle, round shower doors: These unique shapes are ideal for standalone showers and can make a design statement, adding a modern touch to your bathroom; 

-Framed doors: Made with thinner glass (usually 0.6cm) and supported by aluminium frames, these doors come in various colours to match your bathroom décor; 

-Frameless doors: Constructed from thicker glass (typically 1.2cm), frameless doors are among the most luxurious and expensive options. Their minimalistic design allows for an open, airy feel, enhancing the light and space in your bathroom. 

Budget

When planning a bathroom remodel or renovation, the top priority is your budget. It's smart to keep an eye out for discounts and shower panels for sale. These elements can be a significant investment but finding them on sale can help you stay within your budget while still achieving the look you want. Many retailers offer periodic sales, especially during major holidays or at the end of a season. Checking online marketplaces, home improvement stores, and local suppliers can yield some great deals.  

Installation costs vary widely based on several factors, such as the complexity of the installation and your geographic location. Typically, you might expect to pay around $1,000 or more just for the labour. The cost of the enclosure itself can also range significantly, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Factors influencing the price include whether the enclosure is framed or frameless, the type of finish, and the glass type. More intricate designs and higher-quality materials will naturally increase the cost.