The Ultimate Shower Screen Buying Guide
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Are you searching for a new shower screen on the Gold Coast? Choosing the right shower screen for your bathroom can be challenging. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You want something that fits your unique bathroom space, complements your aesthetic, and stands the test of time. That’s where we come in. At REGAL Shower Screens, we take pride in providing custom solutions for your bathroom needs.
Today, we present “The Ultimate Shower Screen Buying Guide”. This comprehensive guide aims to assist you in selecting the perfect custom shower screen for your bathroom. We will explore various types, explore door options, consider different materials, and discuss glass coatings. We aim to provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in and create the bathroom of your dreams with REGAL Shower Screens!
Key Takeaways
- Shower Screen Types: Frameless shower screens offer a clean, open look, enhancing modernity and space, while semi-frameless options provide a stylish, budget-friendly alternative with a sleek finish.
- Varied Door Styles: A range of door options, including hinged, sliding, and pivot doors, to suit different bathroom layouts and preferences.
- Diverse Configurations: Options like corner, wall-to-wall, and fixed-panel screens are available to cater to various bathroom designs.
- Design Flexibility and Space Utilisation: The collection includes traditional and modern designs with smart storage solutions to maximise space efficiency.
- Material Choices and Hardware Quality: Various glass types for style and privacy preferences are complemented by high-quality hardware in different finishes.
- Maintenance Ease with Glass Coatings: Both traditional and protective glass coatings are offered for easy cleaning and maintaining screen clarity.
- Professional Installation and Service: Expert installation and customer service are prioritised for safety and customer satisfaction.
Types of Shower Screens
Here are the most common types of shower screens to consider for your renovation; however, bath shower screens are also an option for those who don’t have a shower. If you’re interested in a bath screen, read this handy guide.
Ready to purchase your new shower screen?
Contact REGAL Shower Screens for a free consultation today.
Framed Shower Screens
In the world of shower screens, framed screens have long been a reliable choice. These screens are enclosed within a sturdy metal frame, offering customers a secure and functional solution.
However, as the housing market evolves, bathrooms have become more than functional spaces. They now play a significant role in selling modern homes, and a frameless screen has emerged as a coveted feature for those seeking a high-end finish.
This shift in decor and preferences has made semi-frameless and frameless screens the go-to options for homeowners seeking luxury and modernity in their bathrooms.
So, let’s look at the shower screens most commonly sought and what Regal offers.
Frameless Shower Screens
Our frameless shower screens are all about clean, uninterrupted lines. They create a sense of space and openness, adding a modern and luxurious touch to your bathroom. Crafted with high-quality materials and finished with superior hardware, these screens are designed to impress.
Unlike their framed counterparts, these screens are void of the metal frame and rely on thicker tempered glass and robust hinges for support. The result is a sleek and seamless aesthetic that elevates the overall appearance of your bathroom.
In terms of benefits, frameless shower screens are easy to clean and maintain, thanks to the absence of frames. They offer unobstructed views and can be tailored to fit specific design specifications. However, given their premium aesthetics and customisability, they may come at a slightly higher cost than other types.
| Advantages of Frameless Screens | Disadvantages of Frameless Screens |
|---|---|
| Sleek and modern look | More expensive than semi-frameless screens |
| Easy to clean | May allow more water to escape due to bigger gaps |
| More spacious feel inside the shower | A great range of hardware colours |
Popular design options for frameless screens:
- Clear or frosted glass
- Minimal hardware, such as chrome or stainless steel hinges
Semi-Frameless Shower Screens
If you’re looking for a blend of style and affordability, our semi-frameless shower screens on the Gold Coast are an excellent choice. Combining the durability of framed shower screens with the sleek appeal of frameless designs, these screens feature a metal frame around the glass panel perimeter and door, while the central portion boasts unframed glass.
Semi-frameless screens provide a cost-effective option for those who desire the elegant look of frameless glass without stretching their budget. They exude a sense of style and sophistication while being budget-friendly. However, keep in mind that the presence of the aluminium frame may not offer the same level of openness as frameless screens.
Unsure which type is best for your needs? Be sure to read our article, “Frameless Vs Semi Frameless Vs Framed: Unveiling the Best Shower Screen for Your Bathroom” to see the difference between each type.
| Advantages of Semi-Frameless Screens | Disadvantages of Semi-Frameless Screens |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective | There are none! |
| Sturdy frame around the perimeter | |
| Modern look |
Popular design options for semi-frameless shower screens:
- Chrome or brushed nickel frames
- Clear or frosted glass
Click here to read our semi-frameless shower screen buying guide.
Exploring Shower Door Options
Selecting the right door for your shower screen is crucial, as it impacts both the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom. We offer various door options to suit different bathroom types and preferences.
Hinged Doors
Traditional hinged door shower screens, also called swing doors, offer a sleek and modern appearance. They are easy to clean and maintain, making them an ideal choice for bathrooms with a contemporary look and practicality. Our hinged glass shower screens are frameless, and designed with premium-quality hinges that ensure durability and smooth operation.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy access to the shower | Requires more space for the door to swing open |
| Can create an elegant and classic look | May not be suitable for small or tight spaces |
Appropriate Applications:
Hinged doors work well in larger bathrooms with ample space for the door to swing open. They are also suitable for frameless screens, as they can help create a sleek and seamless look.
Click here to read our frameless hinged shower screen buying guide.
Sliding Doors
Our semi-farmless sliding shower screens offer a sense of space, light, and style. They are perfect for compact or space-restricted bathrooms where a swinging door isn’t practical. The smooth glide of the door ensures easy access, while their sleek design adds a modern touch to your bathroom. These shower screen doors are convenient in small bathrooms as they don’t occupy any space when opening, unlike hinged doors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Space-saving design | More challenging to clean due to the sliding track |
| Allows for a larger opening | Not as elegant as hinged doors |
Appropriate Applications:
Sliding shower doors are ideal for smaller bathrooms or ensuites where space is limited. They also work well with semi-frameless screens, providing a sense of space, light, and style.
Click here to read our sliding door shower screen buying guide.
Pivot Doors
Pivot door shower screens provide uninterrupted views and a sense of openness, adding elegance and sophistication to your bathroom. With their clean lines and innovative design, pivot door shower screens are suitable for bathrooms with a desired touch of elegance. They swing open like a traditional door with a refined, stylised twist that enhances your bathroom’s aesthetic appeal.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Space-efficient design suitable for all bathroom sizes | May allow water to splash out of the shower area |
| Offers a wide opening, making it easily accessible | Pivot hinges require maintenance over time |
Appropriate Applications:
Pivot doors are ideal for medium-sized bathrooms where maximizing space and accessibility are important. They are also well-suited for modern and traditional bathroom designs, balancing functionality and style.
Click here to read our pivot door shower screen buying guide.
Read our dedicated post on shower screen doors to explore your options further.
Shower Screen Configurations
Choosing the right shower screen configuration can significantly enhance your bathroom’s functionality and aesthetics. At REGAL Shower Screens, we offer a range of configurations to cater to various bathroom layouts and styles.
Corner Shower Screens
A corner shower screen is suitable for bathrooms with a corner space available for the shower area. It offers efficient use of space, creating a spacious and well-organised bathroom. Our corner configurations include sliding doors and corner entry options. Corner entry shower screens consist of two pivoting doors that meet at the corner of the shower instead of aligning with one of the shower walls.
Shower Screen Doors
A stand-alone shower screen door configuration is suitable for bathrooms with a separate tiled shower area that only requires a door for enclosure. The simple addition of a shower door provides a clear division between the shower and the rest of the bathroom, ensuring a clean and dry space.
Read our post on finding the perfect shower door.
Fixed-panel Shower Screens
Fixed-panel showers or glass shower panels are suitable for bathrooms, with a designated shower area requiring a fixed glass panel for enclosure. They are a popular and economical shower screen solution, providing a minimalist, modern look while effectively containing water within the shower area.
Wall-to-wall Shower Screens
Wall-to-wall shower screens are ideal for bathrooms with ample space and a desire for a fully enclosed shower area. They offer privacy and luxury, creating a personal spa-like experience in your bathroom.
Material Considerations
When it comes to the material of our shower screens, we offer various types of glass options, all of which are compliant with AS/NZS 2208:1996 and AS 1288:2021. These include Clear, Opti, Reed/Fluted, Acid Etch/Frosted, and Tinted. Each type of glass has its own characteristics and aesthetic appeal, allowing you to choose according to your style and privacy preferences.
Clear Glass
Clear glass is a classic choice for shower screens. It offers an unobstructed view and a sense of spaciousness, making your bathroom appear larger and more open. Its versatile nature makes it a perfect fit for any bathroom style, from traditional to contemporary.
Opti Glass
Optically clear glass is known for its superb clarity and minimal colour distortion. It allows maximum light transmission, creating a bright and inviting shower space. Its exceptional clarity enhances the visual appeal of your bathroom, making your shower screen almost invisible.
Reed/Fluted Glass
Reed or fluted glass is characterised by its vertical reeded pattern. This design adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your bathroom and provides a degree of privacy while still allowing ample light to filter through.
Acid Etch/Frosted Glass
Acid etch or frosted glass offers the perfect balance between light and privacy. Its surface is etched with acid, creating a satin-like appearance that diffuses light and obscures visibility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a bit more seclusion in their shower space.
Tinted Glass
Tinted glass adds a unique aesthetic appeal to your bathroom. Available in various hues, it can add a subtle splash of colour to your space or increase privacy. Additionally, tinted glass can reduce glare and absorb heat, contributing to a comfortable and relaxing shower experience.
Safety and durability are also paramount in all our products. We use high-quality materials and finishes for our shower screens, prioritising their longevity and maintenance. We also offer easy-cleaning features and durable hardware, ensuring that your shower screen remains as stunning and efficient as the day it was installed.
Other Considerations:
- Determining suitable glass thickness: The glass thickness plays a significant role in the stability and appearance of your screen. Frameless shower screens usually require thicker glass, while semi-frameless screens can use thinner glass. Consult with one of our friendly sales representatives to determine the best thickness for your specific needs.
Visit the AGWA guide on glass for shower screens to help you decide which is best for your needs.
Hardware Considerations
We pay keen attention to every detail of our products, right down to the hardware. We understand that the right choice of hardware enhances your shower screen’s functionality and contributes to its aesthetic appeal.
Our shower hinges and brackets are crafted from high-quality materials for durability and smooth operation. They are designed to withstand regular use, ensuring your shower screen remains functional and sturdy.
In terms of colour options, we offer a range of finishes for our hardware, including chrome, matte black, and brushed nickel. These finishes can be chosen to match or contrast with your existing bathroom fixtures, adding a cohesive and stylish look to your space.
Other Considerations:
- Explore different finishes: Glass shower screens come in various finishes like chrome, satin chrome, matte black, and gold. Choose a finish that matches your bathroom fixtures. Additionally, explore different glass options, such as clear, frosted, or patterned, to add visual interest.
Shower Glass Coatings and Maintenance
Maintaining the pristine condition of your glass shower screen is crucial for its longevity. REGAL Shower Screens offers traditional and protective glass coatings to ensure your shower screen stays clean and clear for longer.
Traditional vs. Protective Coatings
While traditional glass (without a protective coating) provides a certain level of protection against water spots and soap scum, our protective coating upgrade offers superior protection. It creates a barrier on the glass surface that repels water and grime, reducing cleaning time and effort.
The longevity of our glass coatings depends on the frequency of use and proper maintenance. However, rest assured that our protective coatings are designed to last, providing long-term protection for your shower screen.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Regular cleaning with a squeegee can help maintain the clarity of your shower screen. For deeper cleaning, use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the glass and hardware.
Other Considerations:
- Selecting low-maintenance materials: Frameless screens are comparatively easier to clean with minimal hardware and the absence of frames. Opt for materials that resist water spots, soap scum, and mould to minimise maintenance efforts.
- Cleaning tips and tricks: Regular cleaning can prolong the life of your shower screen. Use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to wipe down the glass after each use. Use a mixture of white vinegar and water or a specialised glass cleaner for a deeper clean.
Hiring a Professional Shower Screen Installer
Whether undergoing a complete bathroom renovation or simply upgrading your shower space, hiring a professional for your shower screen installation is crucial to customer satisfaction.
Why Hire a Professional?
- Safety and Accuracy of Installation: A professional installer will ensure that your screen is installed safely and accurately, minimising the risk of accidents or damage to your bathroom fixtures.
- Meeting Building Codes: Professional installers in the Gold Coast area are knowledgeable about local building codes and regulations, ensuring that your screen installation complies with all requirements. You will also get a ‘Form 43’, a must-have to get your renovation passed by the GCC Council.
- Maximising Lifespan and Reliability: A properly installed screen will last longer and function more reliably, providing an excellent investment return.
Finding a Reputable Installer
- Check for Licenses and Insurance: Verify that the installer has the necessary licenses and insurance coverage to protect you and your property from potential liabilities.
- Read Reviews and Testimonials: Browse online reviews and testimonials from past clients to gauge the quality of workmanship and customer service the installer provides.
- Examine Past Projects: Request a portfolio of previous projects to better understand the installer’s capabilities and expertise.
Requesting Quotes and Comparing Prices
- Obtain Multiple Quotes: Request quotes from at least three installers to compare prices and services. Ensure that you are being quoted for custom-made and not standard glass, which is often imported and not cut to suit.
- Assess the Scope of Work: Ensure that each quote includes a clear description of the work to be performed, the materials to be used, and any additional charges for labour or other services.
- Compare Prices and Value: Don’t just focus on the lowest price; take into account the overall value that each installer offers, including their expertise, reputation, and calibre of work.
Hipages‘ shower screen installer guide offers more advice on this topic.
Custom Shower Screens on the Gold Coast
At REGAL, we are passionate about providing our customers with a wide variety of options to choose from. We offer three main types of shower screens – Frameless Shower Screens, Semi-Frameless Shower Screens, and Semi-Frameless Sliding Shower Screens. Each type has unique benefits and characteristics, catering to different tastes, budgets, and bathroom layouts. For example, our frameless shower screens have hinged and sliding door options, while our semi-fameless shower screens offer pivot and sliding door options. This variety ensures you find a glass shower screen that perfectly matches your requirements and aesthetic preferences.
We’re not just about offering choices; we specialise in customisation. We understand every bathroom is unique and provide custom solutions that perfectly fit your distinct space. Our experienced professionals work closely with you to deliver exceptional results tailored to your needs and desires.
One of the reasons why locals prefer our custom shower screens is because we offer personalised solutions that meet their unique needs. We ensure a perfect fit for each bathroom, enhancing its functionality and beauty. With our shower screens, you get a product that reflects your style and caters to your requirements.
Obtaining Shower Screen Quotes
When it comes to obtaining shower screen quotes, there are several steps you can take to ensure you receive accurate and competitive pricing tailored to your specific needs. Proper preparation and clear communication with potential suppliers will facilitate the quote process and help you make an informed decision.
To ensure you get the best shower screen quote for your bathroom renovation or upgrade, it’s essential to choose the right shower screen based on your needs and preferences, ensuring you work with a reputable supplier, obtain multiple detailed quotes, consider the quality of materials, and inquire about warranties and after-sales service, while also factoring in the installation process, timing, and certification of the supplier for a seamless, value-driven renovation experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when purchasing a custom shower screen on the Gold Coast, it’s essential to keep several critical considerations in mind. First, choose a reputable supplier, like us, REGAL Shower Screens. We’re known for high-quality products, excellent customer service, and professional installation services. Also, consider the type of shower screen, hardware, glass coatings, and maintenance tips to ensure the longevity and aesthetics of your screen. Lastly, don’t forget to keep your specific space and style preferences in mind when choosing the perfect shower screen for your bathroom.
With these factors in mind, you can be sure to find the perfect custom glass shower screen that will not only enhance the functionality of your bathroom but also add a touch of elegance to your space. Whether you’re renovating your existing bathroom or building a new one, our team is here to guide you through the process. From design consultation to installation, we ensure a seamless experience, providing you with a shower screen that meets and exceeds your expectations. So, if you’re looking for a new or replacement shower screen, look no further. Let us help you create the bathroom of your dreams.
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Experience the REGAL difference today by completing the free quote request form below. Your dream space awaits.
