Last Updated on June 20, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
Are you in the market for a new shower door? If so, you may be wondering which type of door is right for you. There are many different types of shower doors available on the market today, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for your needs.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of shower doors and help you decide which one is right for you!
Related: 30 Different Types of Bathroom Showers (Shapes, Materials, Styles)
Shower Door Types by Operation
1. Bi-fold shower door.
Bi-fold shower door is a great choice for small bathroom because it doesn’t require a lot of space to open and close. It is also easy to install and maintain.
Pros and cons of Bi-fold shower door:
Bi-fold shower doors are a great option if you’re looking for a space-saving solution for your bathroom. They’re also relatively easy to install, which is another plus. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you make the switch to a bi-fold door.
For one, bi-fold doors can be more difficult to clean than traditional shower doors. The hinges and folds can trap water and soap scum, making it hard to keep the door looking sparkling clean.
Another thing to consider is that bi-fold doors may not provide as much privacy as you’re used to. Because they don’t close all the way, there’s a chance that someone could peek in while you’re showering.
2. Fixed bathroom door.
Fixed bathroom door is one thing that every home needs. It is not only important for the aesthetics of your home, but it is also a safety issue. A fixed bathroom door can prevent someone from accidentally walking in on you while you are using the restroom. It can also keep small children from getting into the bathroom and drowning in the tub.
However, there are also some disadvantages to having a fixed door. For instance, if the door is not properly installed, it can cause the door to warp and not close correctly. Additionally, fixed doors can be more difficult to clean because you cannot remove them from the frame to clean them.
There are a few things that you need to do in order to fix a bathroom door. First, you need to remove the old door. This can be done by unscrewing the hinges from the doorframe. Next, you need to measure the opening for the new door. Once you have measured the opening, you need to cut the new door to fit. Finally, you need to install the new door by screwing it into the hinges.
3. Folding shower door.
Folding shower door is an amazing product that can save you a lot of time, space and money. It is easy to install and use, and it is very versatile. You can use it in any room in your house, including the bathroom.
Folding shower door is an excellent choice for small bathrooms because it doesn’t take up much space. It’s also a good choice for larger bathrooms because it can be used to create a private shower area.
Folding shower door is a great way to save space in your bathroom. It’s also an excellent way to keep your bathroom clean and organized.
4. Hinged shower door.
Hinged shower door is a great addition to your bathroom. It is easy to install and gives your bathroom a modern look. Hinged shower door is made of tempered glass which makes it durable and safe to use.
The Pros:
-They can be used in a variety of settings and don’t have to be installed in an alcove.
-Hinged shower doors offer more stability than sliding ones.
-This type of door is easier to clean because there are no tracks that collect soap scum and mildew.
-They provide a watertight seal that helps prevent leaks.
The Cons:
-Hinged shower doors can be difficult to open and close if you have limited space in your bathroom.
-They are also more expensive than sliding shower doors.
5. Pivot shower door.
Pivot shower door is a great option for small bathroom because it save space. Pivot shower door is easy to install and clean. Pivot shower door is available in different sizes and designs. You can choose the best one that suits your bathroom size and design.
Pros and cons of Pivot shower door:
Pivot shower doors can be both stylish and functional, but they come with a few drawbacks.
One of the main downsides to owning a pivot shower door is that they can be difficult to keep clean. The hinges and tracks can collect soap scum and mildew, which can be tough to remove.
Another potential issue is that pivot doors can be difficult to install. If you’re not experienced with installing shower doors, it’s best to leave this job to a professional.
Pivot shower doors also tend to be more expensive than other types of shower doors, such as sliding or hinged doors.
6. Sliding shower door.
Sliding shower door is a type of door used in the bathroom. It is a door that slides open and closed. Sliding shower door is made of glass. The advantage of a sliding shower door is that it does not take up much space.
Sliding shower doors are available in different sizes, shapes, and colors. You can choose the one that best fits your bathroom.
The Pros:
Sliding shower doors take up less space than swing doors. They can be installed in small bathrooms where a swinging door would be impractical. Sliding doors also look more modern and sleek than traditional swing doors.
The Cons:
Sliding shower doors can be difficult to clean. The tracks can collect dirt and grime, and the doors themselves can get water spots.
Sliding shower doors also require more maintenance than swing doors. The tracks need to be kept clean and lubricated, and the door itself needs to be regularly wiped down to prevent water spots.
7. Steam shower door.
Steam shower door is a special type of door designed to prevent steam from escaping from a shower stall. Steam shower doors are typically made of glass, plastic, or metal, and have a seal around the perimeter to keep the steam in.
Some steam shower doors also have a built-in fan to circulate the air and keep the steam from condensing on the door.
Shower Door Shapes
1. Alcove shower door.
Alcove shower doors are a great way to add some extra space to your bathroom without compromising on style or function.
They are perfect for smaller bathrooms as they don’t take up much space, and they can also be used in larger bathrooms to create a more open feel.
Alcove shower doors are available in a variety of styles and finishes, so you can find the perfect one to suit your needs.
Pros of Alcove shower door:
-The Alcove shower door is a great space saver. It is perfect for small bathrooms because it doesn’t require a lot of space to open and close.
-Alcove shower doors are also very easy to clean. The glass surface repels water, so you won’t have to worry about soap scum or mildew buildup.
-Another great advantage of Alcove shower doors is that they are very low maintenance. Unlike traditional shower curtains, you won’t have to wash or replace your Alcove shower door very often.
Cons of Alcove shower door:
-One downside of Alcove shower doors is that they can be a bit pricey.
-Another potential downside is that Alcove shower doors can be a little tricky to install. If you’re not experienced with do-it-yourself projects, you may want to hire a professional to help you out.
2. Corner shower door.
Corner shower door is one of the most important parts of your shower. It helps to keep the water inside the shower and prevent it from leaking out.
There are many different types of corner shower doors available in the market, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs.
Pros:
-they save space in small bathrooms.
-they provide a sleek, modern look.
Cons:
-they can be difficult to clean because of the nooks and crannies.
-they can be more expensive than other types of shower doors.
3. Round shower door.
Round shower door is one of the most popular types of shower doors. Round shower door is a great choice for those who want to add a touch of style to their bathroom.
Round shower door is also a great choice for those who want to save space in their bathroom. Round shower door is available in many different styles, colors, and materials.
Pros and cons of Round shower door:
One of the main pros of having a round shower door is that it can make your bathroom look more luxurious and expensive.
They also tend to be easier to clean than square or rectangular doors because there are no hard corners for dirt and grime to build up in. However, one downside is that they can be more expensive than other types of shower doors.
Another potential downside is that they might not fit as snugly in your shower opening, which could lead to leaks.
4. Curved Shower Door.
What a lovely word. It’s so… well, curved. And when it comes to shower doors, that’s exactly what you want.
A curved shower door adds a touch of elegance to any bathroom, and it also happens to be very practical. Curved shower doors are easier to clean than straight ones, and they’re also more stylish.
Pros:
-Can give your bathroom an elegant, luxurious look
-May be easier to clean than a straight door because there are fewer nooks and crannies for dirt and grime to hide in
-Can be more expensive than a straight door
Cons:
-May be more difficult to clean than a straight door because there are more nooks and crannies for dirt and grime to hide in
-Potentially more expensive than a straight door.
5. Neo-angle Shower Door.
Neo-angle is one of the most popular shower door shapes. It’s a great option if you have a small bathroom because it doesn’t take up much space.
Another plus is that neo-angle doors can be installed in a corner, which means they don’t require a lot of extra space for opening and closing.
Shower Door Types by Frame
1. Framed shower door.
Framed shower door is one of the most popular types of shower doors on the market. They are made with a frame that surrounds the door and is usually made of aluminum or stainless steel.
The frame can be either clear or opaque, depending on the style of the door. Framed shower doors are easy to install and maintain, and they offer a variety of benefits over other types of shower doors.
One benefit of framed shower doors is that they offer a more finished look than frameless shower doors. They can also be easier to keep clean since there is less chance for soap scum and mildew to build up on the frame. Framed shower doors are also typically more durable than frameless shower doors, which means they will last longer.
Another benefit of framed shower doors is that they can be customized to fit your specific needs. You can choose the size, shape, and style of the door to match your bathroom décor.
You can also choose from a variety of finishes, including brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and chrome. If you want a more unique look, you can even have a custom-made shower door made to your specifications.
2. Frameless shower door.
Frameless shower door is a door without frame. It is made of tempered glass and usually has a handle. The advantage of frameless shower door is its clean look. Because there is no metal frame, the door can be made of clear or frosted glass which gives it a modern appearance.
Another advantage of frameless shower door is that it is easy to clean. There is no metal frame for soap and dirt to accumulate.
Frameless shower door is a great option for those who want a modern look for their bathroom. It is also a good choice for those who want an easy-to-clean door.
3. Semi-frameless shower door.
A semi-frameless shower door is a great alternative to a frameless shower door. It offers the same sleek, modern look as a frameless shower door, but with a few more benefits.
A semi-frameless shower door is made of two pieces of glass that are joined together with a metal frame. The frame helps to support the weight of the glass and keeps it from shifting.
A semi-frameless shower door is easier to install than a frameless shower door, and it is also less expensive. If you are looking for a sleek, modern look for your shower, a semi-frameless shower door is a great option.
Shower Door Glass styles
1. Clear glass.
The most popular type of glass for shower doors is clear glass. It has a simple, elegant look that goes with any bathroom décor. Clear glass is also easy to keep clean, so it’s a good choice if you want low maintenance shower doors.
Pros and cons of clear glass:
On the plus side, clear glass shower doors allow you to show off your beautiful tile work or interesting shaped shower. They also make your bathroom look more spacious and open.
On the downside, they require more upkeep than frosted or opaque glass doors, as they are more prone to water spots and soap scum build-up.
2. Frosted shower door.
Some people prefer the look of a frosted shower door because it gives the bathroom more privacy. Frosted glass also has a more modern look than clear glass.
If you are looking for a way to update your bathroom without spending a lot of money, then replacing your shower door with a frosted one is a great option.
3. Patterned glass shower door.
Patterned glass is a great way to add privacy to your shower while still letting in natural light. There are many different styles of patterned glass to choose from, so you can find the perfect look for your home.
4. Obscure shower door.
Obscure is a term used in the glass industry to describe a type of glass that has been treated to reduce the amount of light that is able to pass through it. This treatment can be done in a number of ways, but the most common is by adding an acid etch to the surface of the glass.
There are a few reasons why you might want to choose an obscure glass for your shower door. One reason is for privacy; if you have a bathroom that is shared with other people in your home, or if you live in a close-neighborhood where houses are close together, then an obscure glass shower door can give you the extra bit of privacy that you desire.
Another reason to choose an obscure glass shower door is for aesthetic reasons. If you want your bathroom to have a more luxurious feel, or if you simply prefer the look of frosted or textured glass, then an obscure glass shower door is a great option.
5. Rain door.
Rain door is a door that is transparent or translucent, made of glass. It is used to keep water from entering a room while allowing light to enter. Rain doors are found in showers, baths, and saunas. They can be either hinged or sliding.
Rain doors have many benefits. They allow natural light into the shower, making it feel more spacious. They are also easy to clean and maintain. Rain doors can be customized to fit any size shower or bathroom.
6. Tinted glass door.
Tinted glass is a great way to obscure the view into your shower while still allowing light to enter the room. Tinted glass can also be used in entry doors and sidelights to create a more private space.
Tinted glass comes in a variety of colors, including bronze, gray, and even black. If you want to add privacy to your home without sacrificing style, tinted glass is a great option.
Tinted glass is also a good choice if you live in an area with a lot of sunlight. The tint will help reduce the amount of heat that enters your home, making it more comfortable during the summer months.
7. Hammered glass.
Hammered glass is a type of decorative glass that is made by hammering the surface of the glass to create a textured look. It is often used in shower doors, furniture, and lighting fixtures.
Hammered glass can be made in a variety of colors, including clear, frosted, and tinted. The texture of hammered glass can also vary, from light to heavy.
Hammered glass is a popular choice for shower doors because it is both stylish and functional. The textured surface of the glass helps to disguise any water spots or fingerprints, and it is also easy to clean. Hammered glass can be used in a variety of different styles of shower doors, including frameless, semi-frameless, and framed.
Shower Door by Features
1. Tempered glass.
Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is often used in shower doors. It is made by heat-treating the glass to make it stronger and more resistant to breakage. Tempered glass is also less likely to shatter into sharp pieces if it breaks, making it a safer option for use in areas where there is a risk of broken glass.
Tempered glass is created through a process of heating and cooling the glass to create an outer layer of compression and an inner layer of tension. This process makes the glass four to five times stronger than regular glass and less likely to break into sharp, dangerous shards.
2. Bathtub door.
Bathtub door is a term used to describe a door that is installed in front of a bathtub.
Bathtub doors are usually made of glass, but can also be made of wood or metal.
Bathtub doors can be either hinged or sliding.
Hinged bathtub doors are usually made of glass, and slide on a track that is installed on the tub.
Sliding bathtub doors are usually made of metal or wood, and slide on a track that is installed on the wall.
Bathtub doors can be either frameless or framed.
Frameless bathtub doors are made of glass, and have no frame around them.
Framed bathtub doors have a frame around them, and can be made of either glass or metal.
Bathtub doors are an important feature to have in your bathroom, as they provide privacy and allow you to take a relaxing bath.
Shower door styles
1. Contemporary.
This is probably the most common style of shower door that you’ll see in homes. The defining characteristic of a contemporary shower door is clean lines. They tend to be made of glass, with minimal hardware. This style is all about simplicity and functionality.
2. Industrial.
This style is perfect for those who want an edgy look in their bathroom. The metal frames and exposed hardware give the space a more rugged feel. If you’re going for a more masculine aesthetic, this is the style for you.
Pipe fittings, exposed brick, and concrete floors are all popular elements in industrial design. To complete the look, pair your shower door with these other industrial elements.
3. Modern.
Modern shower door styles allow you to have a sleek and stylish shower without sacrificing function. There are many different styles of modern shower doors, each with their own unique benefits.
4. Traditional.
This is the most common type of shower door. It has a frame around the perimeter of the door and usually has a handle. The door itself is either clear or frosted glass. Traditional shower doors can be hinged, sliding, or pivot.
FAQs about shower doors
What is the difference between a pivot and a hinged shower door?
Pivot doors swing open on a hinge, while hinged doors open on an axis. Pivot doors are typically used in small spaces, such as showers, because they take up less room when opened. Hinged doors are often used in larger spaces, such as entryways, because they provide more space when opened.
What is the difference between a framed and frameless shower door?
There are a few key differences between framed and frameless shower doors that you should know before making a purchase. First, framed shower doors have metal or plastic frames around the perimeter of the door, while frameless doors do not. This gives frameless shower doors a cleaner, sleeker look.
Frameless shower doors also tend to be more expensive than framed shower doors, because they are made with higher quality materials and require more precise installation. Finally, frameless shower doors provide a better seal against water leaks, making them a good choice for bathrooms that get a lot of use.
What is the difference between a bypass shower door and a sliding shower door?
When it comes to shower doors, there are two main types: bypass doors and sliding doors. Bypass doors are the most common type of shower door, and they’re made up of two panels that slide past each other on a track. Sliding doors, on the other hand, have one fixed panel and one panel that slides on a track.
So, what are the main differences between these two types of shower doors? For one, bypass doors tend to be more affordable than sliding doors. They’re also easier to install, and they take up less space in your bathroom. However, sliding doors have a few advantages over bypass doors. They’re easier to clean, and they provide a more seamless look in your bathroom.
Factors to consider when buying a shower door.
There are many factors to consider when purchasing a shower door. The following list includes some of the most important factors to keep in mind.
The size of the door: You will need to measure the space where the door will be installed. Shower doors come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to choose one that will fit the space properly.
The type of door: There are several different types of shower doors, including sliding doors, hinged doors, and pivot doors. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so you will need to decide which type is right for your needs.
The material: Shower doors are made from a variety of materials, including glass, plastic, and metal. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you will need to decide which material is right for your needs.
The finish: Shower doors are available in a variety of finishes, including clear glass, frosted glass, and mirrored glass. You will need to decide which finish is right for your needs.
The price: Shower doors vary in price, depending on the size, type, material, and finish. You will need to decide which factors are most important to you and choose a door that fits your budget.
The installation: Many shower doors are easy to install, but some require professional installation. If you are not comfortable installing the door yourself, you may need to hire a professional.
The warranty: Most shower doors come with a limited warranty. You will need to read the warranty carefully to make sure that it covers the type of door you are buying.
The return policy: Most stores have a return policy for shower doors. You will need to check the return policy before you make your purchase to make sure that you can return the door if it is not what you wanted.
Once you have considered all of these factors, you will be able to choose the shower door that is right for you.
Conclusion
There are many types of shower doors, and the best one for your home depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a durable and low-maintenance option, glass is a great choice. If you want something that’s easy to clean, frameless shower doors are a good option. And if you’re looking for a stylish addition to your bathroom, sliding shower doors are a great choice. Whichever type of shower door you choose, be sure to measure your space carefully and install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. With a little bit of planning, you can find the perfect shower door for your home. Thanks for reading!