Why are homeowners choosing shower doors, and frameless glass shower doors in particular, instead of shower curtains? While the cost of frameless shower doors is certainly higher than that of the most expensive shower curtain you’ll find at the store, the appeal of frameless glass is enough to the give it the top spot in today’s design world.
Bathroom designers and home decorators tend to prefer the aesthetics of a frameless glass shower enclosure. Most of these showers are built from clear glass, so they don’t hide or blur the shower tile like curtains do. Also, by eliminating the start and stop of a curtain, small bathrooms can feel more spacious, and large bathrooms will seem even roomier.
One nice thing about shower curtains is that it’s relatively easy to switch them out when you want to change the style of your bathroom. On the other hand, a frameless shower door made of clear glass matches just about any décor. It will never clash with the color of your bath towels and can be used alongside modern, transitional, or traditional bath designs.
See Also: Everything There is to Know About Frameless Glass Shower Doors
Anything used for water containment in a shower is going to be at risk of mold, mildew, and hard water spots. Glass shower doors and shower curtains both require proper care, but the impermeable surface of glass makes it easier to sanitize.
Cleaning shower glass involves protecting the glass by sealing its surface, drying it after use, and washing it regularly with an appropriate bathroom glass cleaner and non-abrasive sponge. Unlike framed enclosures, the frameless shower doors of today do not have the nooks and crannies where water collects and mold multiplies. Their simplicity and smooth surfaces make them easier to clean than the shower doors of old.
Most cloth shower curtains can be thrown in the washing machine, and vinyl curtains can be wiped down. However, stains can be left depending how bad the mold, mildew, or water spots get. Also, there is nothing quite as cringe-inspiring as the clammy feel of a damp, soiled liner brushing against your skin!
Shower curtains do a decent job keeping water inside the shower stall if you remember to close them completely and correctly place the liner. A properly installed glass shower enclosure forms a solid barrier against rogue water droplets. Other factors, such as floor slope and shower head placement, can affect the functionality of some glass showers, so it’s important to keep communication open among you, the shower door provider, and other tradespeople who are working on your bathroom.
Besides reliable water containment, frameless glass shower doors offer:
In Northern Virginia, a custom glass shower can cost thousands of dollars, while you’ll be hard-pressed to find a high end shower curtain retailing for more than $120. However, homeowners tend to view a frameless shower door as an investment into their homes, similar to updating an appliance. Conversely, a shower curtain is viewed as a transitory accessory like an area rug or new set of bath towels.
Glass shower enclosures are permanent structures that add modern elegance to a bathroom while taking care of water containment once and for all. Once installed, the glass becomes a fixed part of the space, like the tile or the sink. A shower curtain is a more temporary solution. Homeowners change liners as they get torn or stained and buy new curtains as their tastes evolve or new trends develop.
Upgrading your shower curtain or other accessories can make your bathroom more visually appealing to prospective buyers. However, most people take their shower curtains with them – and who would want someone else’s shower curtain anyway? – so they don’t add monetary value to the home.
Bathroom remodels are often recommended by realtors to boost both the value and attractiveness of a home. The installation of frameless glass shower doors can be part of a minor bathroom remodel or a full-scale renovation. These changes typically give you a good return on the investment (ROI) when you go to sell your home, so talk to your real estate agent about what specific shower upgrades will add the most value in your locale.
Finally, like updated accessories, a frameless glass shower in the master bathroom makes your living space more pleasant and appealing when home-buyers walk through. It brings your house in line with today’s home fashions and makes the space feel up-to-date, features which can give your house an advantage over other homes in the same price range.
Shower curtain options are plentiful, from discount store bargains to designer creations. From photos of tropical fish, to solid hues, to geometric designs and nature patterns, there is a shower curtain for just about every taste. Additionally, shower curtains can be made from various cloth and vinyl materials, and they range from sheer to opaque.
Frameless glass shower options are less colorful, but still diverse enough to meet the needs of most decorators. Frequently customizable features include:
If you’re ready to join the ranks of homeowners who have made the switch from a shower curtain to frameless glass shower doors, call the ABC Glass and Mirror team today at 703-257-7150. Creating the perfect glass shower for a client’s situation is one of our specialties, so you can count on us to work with you from the planning through the final installation of your glass shower enclosure. Contact us today for more details and to make your free in-home consultation appointment.
